The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel1951

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
I'm told you once referred to me as a clown. A clown of Hitler's circus.

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
Oh, did I?

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
If so, I think you should know that I've been a great deal more explicit about you, many times.

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
Oh, that's quite all right, Field Marshal. I find it almost impossible to keep my mind on anything harsh said about me.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
Did you say it?

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
Whoever said it, you've given them ample reason to regret such a foolish remark.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
Thank you, Field Marshal.

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
Not at all.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
Is there anything else?

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
I don't believe so, at the moment. [Rommel salutes and heads for the door] One suggestion, perhaps, in view of our cordiality. If I were you, I wouldn't be altogether unguarded about what I had to say about this new strategic arrangement. I think you should know that from now on, you'll be under more or less constant observation.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
From Berlin?

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
[shrugs] Friends of the management, I believe.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
Have you any information as to why I should be singled out for such attention?

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
Oh, but you are not, we all are. Apparently you didn't have it in Africa, but here on the continent, it's an honor that goes with staff rank.

Field Marshal Erwin Johannes Rommel:
You too?

Field Marshal Gerd von Runstedt:
[chuckles] My dear fellow, I'm the commander-in-chief.