It's the office not the man

As Ms Pelosi ceded the floor to Mr Bush I wondered if there was a little blue devil whispering into her ear daring her to say something other than the usual respectful lines. She spends so much time vilifying him and questioning not just his ability but his integrity and ethics. Then she has to clap and show deference. I wonder if it was difficult.

When the applause in the room died down she delivered her introduction:

"Members of Congress: I have the high privilege and distinct honour of presenting to you the President of the United States."

What was that little devil on her shoulder whispering?

Hey Nancy -- start off by saying 'Don't blame me; I didn't vote for him.'

Or did he suggest nonverbal cues.

Just roll your eyes when you're done!

Did he go to a subtle rewording?

heehee...say 'relative privilege and distinct duty'

But those aren't quite subtle enough. I think the slickest little devil would ignore the contentives and would instead suggest a slight rewrite on a functor.

Psst! Listen carefully: say 'I have the high privilege and distinct honor of presenting to you a President of the United States.'