Reply #3: I affirm the principle of free will, but I'm heartened by the ancient

[Fredda Weinberg]

cultures involved, which remain mostly intact despite the colonial history. The lawyers demonstrated an exemplary resolve and returning Sharif ... this development has been wholly positive no far. No violence, no army opposition - we may yet see enlightened times.

So I predict a brokered arrangment - the kind the Israelis turn to when they need internal unity. It doesn't conform to our legal notion of democracy but tribal cultures have more experience with representative government than we do.

How long will Musharraf last? I would predict he'll die in his sleep in his own bed, retired from political life or planning to do so. But I haven't heard Sharif's reponse - so far, in interviews, he's sounded reasonable.