Originally Posted by
gumbomoop
We do draw different inferences here. For if Wiseman is saying the John recruitment/commitment “was at least the straw,” then he is implying it was more than that, more than the least.
In general usage, the very idea that X “at least” did Y invariably implies it probably did more than Y. Not certainly, but very probably.
We’re both (all) making inferences here. I think Wiseman’s “flat, cool, blunt” words send a signal — and I do mean a straightforward, not merely “read between the lines” signal — not about the last straw, but about a striking development more central to Coleman’s decision to transfer.
Henry Coleman is a sweet guy, but his ghost has become something of a disquieting presence on DBR. Theo John’s play has not, yet, been a ghostbuster.