Dwight Eisenhower actually said...

"I would deem it an honor to be personally present at this testimonial dinner, so as to share even more intimately in the tribute that the assembled group is paying to its guest of honor."

"You and I are fortunate to have such a man in our Nation's service."

"But, denied that opportunity, I extend warm greetings to each of you present, along with my best wishes for a most successful evening."

"In personal conferences in my office, I can always count on George Humphrey to be a strong, able, and assertive counsellor."