among the TD's supporters or the political commentators who for eight weeks so spectacularly speculated wrongly about the Taoiseach's intentions.

There was considerable surprise at the return of Mary Wallace . . . or, 'Lady Wednesday' as her party colleagues fondly describe the Meath East TD. But her appointment hardly left Fianna Fail backbenchers "stunned" and "bewildered" as some reports suggested.

One low-profile backbencher passed over as another low-profile backbencher was promoted.

Whatever about the disappointment for Haughey, his constituency colleague was the real winner. The comeback plans continue on track, Ivor.