Sure it would have been nice to see Harry rant and rave, demand an apology, and reprimand Dick for wheeling a firearm in reckless disregard for the safety of his hunting party. Obviously, that's not Mr. Whittington's style.
Mr. Whittington stood in front of a microphone in broad daylight (without trying to disguise the wounds he suffered and spoke to a crowd of reporters.) He was gracious. He performed like a Southern gentleman. You don't insult your hosts or your guests. (Even if they shoot you and claim it's your fault.) You recognize the "hard" work of the press. You praise the medical staff. You express gratitude to people who wish you well. You acknowledge that hunting requires some risks. You say you're sorry (even though you were the victim.) You recognize the important work Mr. Cheney has to attend to (even as Mr. Cheney spends the day in Wyoming reminiscing about the good old days.) Wow. Now that's grace under fire.
Mr. Whittington was polished and articulate. Even with a face full of birdshot and a belly full of meds.
In his own gracious way, Mr. Whittington pointed out what an ill mannered coward Mr. Cheney is. He reminded us of all that Mr. Cheney is not. He reminded us that big Dick never said he was sorry. Never acknowledged the pain he caused to the victim's family and friends. Rather, Mr. Cheney complained. He whined. He scolded the media. He made himself the "victim" (one of the worst days of MY life.) And he refused to speak in the open. Rather found shelter under the dim lights of a Fox News studio. Fully made up. Pink tie and all.
Mr. Whittington said what he had to say. We got the message. And I'm certain that all across the South they are talking about the Texas gentleman and the Wyoming wimp.