A biblical retort outflanked cannery interest pleadings in the New York Legislature

Evidence

During a debate on a bill that would have required “one day’s rest in seven” for women and children, Republican legislators beholden to cannery interests pleaded for exemptions for canneries. Smith waited until every Republican had finished. Then he rose and walked between their desks down to the well of the Chamber. Whirling to face them, he said quietly, “I have read carefully the commandment ‘Remember the Sabbath Day to keep it holy.’ I am unable to find any language in it that says, ‘except in the canneries.’ ” Without another word, he returned to his seat. — Robert A. Caro, The Power Broker, 547

Categorization

• CANDY: The ‘except in the canneries’ quip is a memorable, self-contained anecdote with real debater’s flair.