Mr. Hitchens, Considering Mr. Mandela's strange comments back in 2003, half a decade ago, in conjunction with his doctor's comments of more recent origin, don't you think there is a good possibility that the ol' lion has tipped off his rocker a bit? My grandfather is still alive at the post-ripe age of 98, but it has been at least a decade since he knew my name. Each time i visit with him I detect a bare hint of recognition, but perhaps no more so than had i been a college roomate or former co-worker popping in for a visit. He knows he knows me, but he doesn't know why. He used to ask me how my soccer team was doing (nearly 15 years after i had last played for my high school), but even that connection has faded. At ninety years of age, Mr. Mandela may already be suffering from severe bouts of dementia, if it has not yet completely consumed him.