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> What I want to know, is why does Wellingham support Neil? Why does he
> want him back as his son-in-law?
>
Good question! Hopefully I'm not repeating someone here, but I
think Neil and Wellingham go wayyyyy back. I don't think Neil
is Wellingham's protege, but I do think Wellingham has some very
strong, distinct ties with Neil. One had to have been Neil's
relationship with Belinda, but their (Wellingham and Neil's)
relationship endures even after the divorce. And I hate to say
this, but I think Wellingham likes Neil a lot better than he
likes his own daughter! Wellingham seems to be very easy going
with Neil, the man who jilted his daughter. I wonder how many
father-in-laws remain in a friendly (or professional) relationship
with their EX son-in-laws?
Wellingham is a big political mover-shaker. I wonder if he had
long-range plans for Neil? He was always offering Neil advise on
how to be more diplomatic, use a bit more tact when dealing with
Peele, etc. Was he grooming Neil for something? Sometimes, I
don't think so because Neil is his own man; he's tough, opinionated
as hell, and doesn't listen well - not your ideal puppet. But on
the other hand, Wellingham is a powerful figure and probably has
his pick of up and coming young diplomats and politicians. There's
no reason for him to remain close with Neil unless he wanted some-
thing personal or professional with him. I think I'll just throw
out all of the above and simply say that Wellingham *liked* Neil.
Karen Yost
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