The Italians got it. They took the joke, and Fortunate Eagle was invited to meet the pope. When the pope held up his ring so Fortunate Eagle could kiss it, Fortunate Eagle held out his hand instead, his finger heavy with a ring made from American turquoise. I imagine what was happening in their minds as they held out their hands to each other. “You may kiss my ring.” “No, you can kiss MY ring.” “I am not kissing your ring, I am the pope.” “Well, I’m not kissing your ring, I just discovered Italy.”
