When Charles de Gaulle decided to retire from public life, the British ambassador and his wife threw a gala dinner party in his honour.

At the dinner table, the Ambassador's wife was talking with Madame de Gaulle:

"Your husband has been such a prominent public figure, such a presence on the French and international scene for so many years! How quiet retirement will seem in comparison? What are you most looking forward to in these retirement years?"

"Hard penis! just hard penis!" replied Madame de Gaulle.

A huge hush fell over the table. Everyone heard her answer...... and no one knew what to say next.

Le Grand Charles leaned over to his wife and said:

"Ma cherie, I believe ze English pronounce zat word, "happiness!'"