Nicholi was seated in the decrepit area that passed for a lunchroom in the Russian factory where he worked. As this was during the last days of the Soviet Union, many people, including Nicholi, were much bolder in their speech.
It wasn't long until a hated party official and notorious spy for the secret police entered the room.
"Comrade," began Nicholi, "What will you do now that the situation has changed in Moscow?"
"Soon I will probably put on my hat and go home," came the reply.
"Ah," said Nicholi, "But what will you put your hat on?"