One of the notable figures in the history of the American Navy is that
of Admiral Porter. Wise in counsel and daring in execution, he has
left his impression very deep upon its development and traditions. At
one time he was in command of the Naval Academy at Annapolis when the
following incident occurred:
General Grant was on a visit to the Academy. As he stood
watching the evolutions of the midshipmen, the general had his
ever-present cigar in his mouth. The marine on duty walked up to
the general and said, “General, I beg pardon, but it is against
the rules to smoke in the academy.” “All right,” replied the
general, and, with soldierly promptness, he proceeded to take
the cigar from his mouth. At that instant Admiral Porter stept
forward and said, “I abrogate that rule.” (Text.)
(1762)