WITH millions of Americans delinquent on their home mortgages, in foreclosure, on or facing the streets, the man of action — "the go to guy" — went on air to unleash a plan devised by the two amigos, Henry Paulson and Ben Bernanke, and a cast of thousands.

A rescue no less. One could hear the faint sound of bugles as the nation stood and the Commander-In-Chief, hero of countless campaigns, a Patton abroad, a Roosevelt at home, waited before their TV sets or listened as the saviour of New Orleans spoke.

The plan was revealed; the evictions would cease. A moratorium no less for those facing ruin. Salvation was at hand. It even came with a distress hotline where counsellors awaited consumers in crisis. Salvation indeed, as the President announced the number 1-800-995-HOPE.