Don't Ask Barney Frank About His Arm

I have a well-documented appreciation of Financial Services Chairman Barney Frank (D-Mass.), a first-rate wit whose acerbic barbs and fiery sarcasm make him the best floor speaker in the House. We can add the following "Dear Colleague" to his brilliant body of work. If only more of his colleagues were so candid and willing to abandon all the pleasantries of life on the Hill.

"May 15, 2007

"Dear Colleague:

"I appreciate the concern expressed by many about why my arm is in a sling.  In order to avoid having to repeat the same conversation, I am sending out this Dear Colleague.

"I ruptured a tendon in my left arm using a curling machine in a gym, and I had it surgically repaired yesterday at Bethesda Naval Hospital.  I'll be using the sling for a week or two, but I feel fine.

"Thanks for not asking.

"BARNEY FRANK"