Between the Lines Toasts are the lingua franca of diplomacy.

What They Said

Gorbachev: “As we see it . . . habitual stereotypes stemming from enemy images have been shaken loose.”

What They Meant

At last you’ve abandoned that “evil empire” stuff.

What They Said

Reagan: “Mr. General Secretary, we know that on matters of great importance we will continue to differ profoundly.”

What They Meant

I’m not giving up Star Wars.

What They Said

Gorbachev: “Our dialogue . . . has, however, so far been moving much more slowly than is required by the real situation.”

What They Meant

If you don’t give up Star Wars, I’ll just have to wait for the next President.

What They Said

Reagan: “The monks of Danilov, the dissidents and refuseniks . . . the students and young people have shown once again that spiritual values are cherished in this nation.”

What They Meant

I don’t care what Marx said, your people still believe in God.

What They Said

Gorbachev: “Let me just add that seeking to resolve differences should not mean an end to being different.”

What They Meant

Quit hectoring us about human rights.

What They Said

Reagan: “Our time here has allowed us to know, if only briefly, your art treasures and your people.”

What They Meant

Mainly, we came for the sights and the photo ops.