Dateline: Washington, October 2nd, 2005

Today a frail and distressed looking Chief Justice Rhenquist appeared on the steps of the Supreme Court with Justice O'Connor. He stood silently behind as she stepped to the microphone and read the following statement to a stunned, hurriedly assembled press corps:

"Ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you for coming here today on such short notice.

"Chief Justice Rhenquist and myself have been engaged in an ongoing dialogue about the current situation that exists on the highest court since July. I have pledged to stay until a replacement is confirmed, and Chief Justice Rhenquist has delayed his own retirement announcement until my replacement is confirmed.

"It is common knowledge that my husband John is in failing health, and the Chief Justice faces his own health concerns. That is why he and I have agreed that the Supreme Court should convene tomorrow with a panel of seven justices. We urge this president to refrain from naming a replacement for either of the seats we leave vacant, as any justices appointed to this court by this president might find themselves having to rule on issues of criminality and violations of public trust and national security involving this administration, possibly the vice-president or the president himself. We urge the president to select one of the current sitting justices to serve as the Chief Justice until the next president is duly elected in 2008. We urge the Senate to allow whichever of the seven Justices he selects to ascend to Chief Justice, and serve in that capacity until the next elected administration selects an appointment to the post. Thank you." And she turned away. She assisted the Chief Justice from the podium, and disappeared back into the Court, leaving the Washington corps speechless."

Right now, it is only a dream. But the more stink that comes from D.C., the more likely this scenario becomes. Personally, I find it preferable to two Bush appointees and a senate battle that would polarize the country and distract from the real issues at hand.