Letterman was brilliant, doing the job that far too many "news" anchors have failed to do, asking tough questions.

McCain was like a helpless puppy, overwhelmed and adrift at sea, unable to get a grip on the conversation. The thought of him facing a leader of another nation, or of a cabinet of grownups with serious responsibiities-- seemed very remote. Perhaps it makes his faith in Sarah Palin somewhat believable. He was so out of his depth, dealing with a smart talk-show host, that perhaps he really does see Palin as competent to do the job of president, based on his own woefully inadequate abilities.