In Beverly Hills 213, gossip maven James Bacon recalls how the legendary film star - Humphrey Bogart - responded to press reports on the occasion that it was revealed he was ailing from cancer.
For example, when Dorothy Kilgallen (New York Journal-American) reported the award-winning star was suffering from the life-threatening disease - and that he was moved to the twelfth floor of the Los Angeles Memorial Hospital - he was alleged to have quipped,
"How do you like that? She's got me in a hospital that doesn't exist. And on the twelfth floor. That twelfth floor is what makes me mad. Sounds like a loony bin," Bogie barked angrily.
Then, still in a rage - according to the well-known journalist - he snapped,
"Why do they snipe at me because I have cancer? It's a respectable disease. It's not as if I had a dose of the clap."
Well, Bogie, even the most discerning individual can contract a social disease.
Just remember, when a person chooses to get intimate in the sack with someone - in essence - they are sleeping with everyone their partner has bedded.
Scary thought, these days.
So, play safe, everyone.
And, contribute funds to the cause of your choice, so scientists can continue with their important research - with the ultimate aim of curing "all disease" - on the face of the earth.
Amen!
Dorothy Kilgallen in happier days...
