The Quintessential British Gentleman

I think once you work for the MOD, you always work for the MOD.

Nick Pope is the classic quintessential British Gentleman. Some live on the outside of that code of ethics and give the impression that they are what Mr. Pope really is. He is compelled by a code of ethics that is his own and that is what drives him to hold his agreements with the MOD. Think James Bond 007.

His words are not spoken lightly and all that he says, says something. This is the type of intelligence that could insult you and you would never know you have been insulted, so diplomatic and well thought out are his words. Further, it is also about how he says what he says and what he DOESN’T say! He actually answered all the questions, even when he felt compelled to say “No Comment”.

This is a man who will never ‘dish’. Not in the way we Americans want him to. He will never lower himself to break his oaths, nor would he stoop to expressing himself in the manner of ‘dish’. I agree with Mr. Pope when he says there will never be a ‘man-behind-the-curtain’ in this issue. There are way too many factors that play into the whole story, and when all is said and done we as a human race WILL be re-writing our history. All I can think is :

Oh what a tangled web we weave,

When first we practise to deceive

(Sir Walter Scott, Marmion, Canto vi. Stanza 17)

Once again I need to thank Jimmy for giving us a picture of an exemplary man, who is misunderstood and misconstrued. Jimmy understands this and last night he gave us a very unique insight into a remarkable man, and shed light on how it feels to look out at the world through his eyes. Well Done!!

It is very rare to be able to witness genuine gentlemanship at this level. Mr. Pope is a statesman, diplomat, and a true scholar. He accepts his role with aplomb and strength. Quite honestly, I wish he was my friend. He also looks excellent in a ‘dark’ suit.