Can do

Mr Gnome has an appropriately modest view of his blogospheric role in Senator Obama's successful campaign for the presidency of the United States.

Both Mr G and the HB are second to none in their pleasure at the result - and in their measured optimism that Mr Obama will make a massively positive contribution to the future of the USA and of the world.

Who could not have been moved by the content of his acceptance speech, and impressed by the composure with which it was delivered?

Meanwhile, do read his excellent autobiography Dreams From My Father, written (no ghosts involved) more than ten years ago.

Off the fence?

Back in Blighty after his autumnal foray to the United States, Mr Gnome reflects on the momentous choice facing his American friends.

Having once lived and worked in the USA (in Mrs Palin's home state, to be precise), the HB has retained a lively interest in the affairs of our transatlantic friends and allies.

Somehow this year's election seems particularly important - for the USA and for the whole world.

Not being a citizen, Mr G and the HB are reluctant to say: 'Vote this way, or that way.'

But we do urge our readers (if we have any!) to give a thoughtful perusal to this persuasive piece from this week's New Yorker.