Rommel really did not like the flavor of the local water and would use lemon to cover it.

He used tea-parties with local Arab and Berber leaders to discuss parameters between their own situations and positions in a European war on their continent and/or in their tribal areas.

Hitler offered tea and cookies first; no use using a whip unless a horse showed it needed it. People who knew him said that, early on in his career, at least, his temper tantrums were staged to take advantage of the discomfort of his targets. Later, as illnesses and painkillers of various sorts (never verified) began to take control, he was less and less in control of himself.

Anyway, always turn to tea first. At least if you know what’s in it.