spooner would be proud

One of my first professional theater jobs was in a touring production of the musical, 1776. The cast was very strong, full of age appropriate actors / singers, and it was a pleasure to be a part of it.

During one performance, our John Adams said, "Perhaps a powerful nation, such as Spance or Frain?" He did not realize he had said this, but was informed immediately after the performance by those in the cast who enjoy informing people that they said a line incorrectly. Much mirth ensued.

Normally, this fellow was unflappable, but for some reason this misquote made a notch in his brain, for on the following night, at the same point in the show, he said, "Perhaps a powerful nation, such as Spauhh� or Frayyh�"

Then there was a long pause. John Adams closed his eyes, and while slicing his hands across his body in the manner of an umpire signaling safe, he emitted an emphatic "HHMMMMPH!"

Then he opened his eyes, set his jaw, stepped forward and in ringing tones that reached every corner of the theater and beyond, he shouted, "FRAAIN!!!�"

The entire Continental Congress shook in unison though still, of course, in character.