CAPITOL LETTERS

The "knee-capper," Tom Craddick, has ordered the proceedings slowed so he can pressure wavering members, according to House Democratic Caucus Chairman Jim Dunnam of Waco. He says Mr. Craddick may delay a speakership vote until tomorrow.

"You never call a point of order when you've got the votes," Mr. Dunnam said. "This is going back to the same old intimidation stuff: Call a halt. Crack some knee caps."

Fort Worth Republican Charlie Geren, agreed. "You call a point of order so you can go twist arms," Mr. Geren told reporters. Turning toward Craddick supporters who were leaving the floor during a break, Mr. Geren added, "Nothing's changed. Nothing's ever going to change." One of the Craddick dudes, Dallas' Dan Branch, just shook his head.