Anecdotes of Great Musicians/Anecdote 88
88.—A BASSO'S WIT.
That huge basso of stentorian voice, Lablache, was "a fellow of infinite jest" as well as occasionally one of poor memory. This was once shown in a laughable way, the occasion being his reception by the King of Naples. As Lablache was seated in the reception room awaiting his turn to pass into the king's presence, he noticed a draught from the open doors and begged to be allowed to keep his hat on to ward off any evil effects.
A few moments later his turn came for admittance, and as the usher beckoned him he hastily caught up a hat that was lying close by, and, forgetting that his own hat was on his head, carried the borrowed one with him into the king's presence. His Majesty greeted him with a hearty laugh, which soon brought Lablache to a realization of his ludicrous appearance at a royal reception. But not chagrined by the matter, he brought his ready wit to bear, and bowing to the king declared:
"Sire, your Majesty is quite right; even one hat would be too much for a fellow who has no head!"