A Red Flag

In northern Italy a band of ardent Fascisti were passing through a village. Atop a castle tower was a red flag! Infuriated, the Fascist leader went to the Prefect and informed him that the village was in the hands of the Communists. The local Fascisti were called to arms and the Prefect dashed off to deliver an ultimatum to the Reds. Only the custodian was in residence in the castle and he was summoned to appear forthwith in the presence of the Prefect. Questioned as to the meaning of his rebellious act, he replied that the military authorities had commanded him to place a red flag on the tower as a warning to farmers not to approach on account of military maneuvers which were being held. Prefect and Fascisti, dejected, marched away with their tails well between their legs.