Deng Xiaoping is visiting the US. Tired of being shadowed by his
entourage at all times, he decides to go for a walk on his own.
This alarms his translators and bodyguards who fear that Mr. Deng
will get into trouble since he does not speak any English. However,
realizing that they cannot change his mind, they decide to at least
prepare him in case he gets stopped by the police. "If you get
stopped", they coached him, "they'll first ask for your surname and
then they'll ask for your given name. Just tell them and everything
will be fine". So Mr. Deng goes out and enjoys himself. A policeman
recognizes him. Having heard that Mr. Deng prides himself in his
knowledge of American history, he decides to start a conversation
with an appropriate subject.
Policeman: Who was the first president of the U.S?
Mr. Deng: Wo xing Deng [我姓鄧: My surname is Deng]
Policeman: Yes, Washington. And what are you doing in the
U.S?
Mr. Deng: Xiaoping [小平]
Policeman: Ah, shopping. Very good. Have nice day!.
