Title: A Creaking Tail
Author: Ambrose Bierce [More Titles by Bierce]
"I knew your fortitude would give out after a while," said the American Statesman, delighted; "your agony attests my political power."
"Agony I know not!" said the British Lion, yawning; "the swivel in my tail needs a few drops of oil, that is all."
[The end]
Ambrose Bierce's short story: A Creaking Tail