When in Doubt: More War

President Bush is about to speak to the nation about his plans for fixing his war against Iraq. Apparently, the lynching of Saddam Hussein put a definitive end to Chapter One, which lasted longer than the United States was involved in World War II.

Chapter One ended on the deck of that aircraft carrier so long ago: "Mission Accomplished," and that's when the long, drawn out, pitifully stubborn Chapter Two began.

So now we are at last on to Chapter Three, but of how many chapters?

Bottom line: As with most chomping-at-the-bit chief executives, American presidents hate to lose more than they hate war.