*Crickets chirping*
"He put a little humour into the mad cow crisis: "I proudly ate some Alberta beef last night and I'm still standing."
He even quoted an old Canadian political line attributed to Bob Thompson, a 1960s leader of the now-defunct Social Credit party.
"The United States is our friend, whether we like it or not."
He paused for the laughter: "When all is said and done, we are friends. And we like it."
In Ottawa on Tuesday, he thanked Canadians for a warm welcome.
"I, frankly, felt like the reception we received on the way in from the airport was very warm and hospitable, and I want to thank the Canadian people who came out to wave - with all five fingers."
At his news conference, Martin noted the size of the audience.
"I noticed, Mr. President, you seem to draw a larger crowd than I do," he said.
"I don't know if that's good or bad," Bush replied. "It all depends on who shows up, I guess."
When a Radio Canada reporter said she would ask a question in French she suggested Bush use his translation earphone.
"Maybe I don't want to know the question," he replied.
Doesn't he remind you of Donkey in Shrek? Can you see him wooing that dragon? Heh heh heh