Smells Like Grasping at Straws

"Prosecutors have questioned former CIA director George J. Tenet and deputy director John E. McLaughlin, former CIA spokesman Bill Harlow, State Department officials, and even a stranger who approached columnist Robert D. Novak on the street."

FITZGERALD: So, Mr. X -- is it alright if I call you Mr. X?

MR. X: Yes, that's fine.

FITZGERALD: Why did you approach Robert Novak on the street? Did someone ask you to approach Robert Novak on the street?

MR. X: Yes, someone did.

FITZGERALD (raises eyebrows): Really?

MR. X: Yes. It was my wife. We're from Dubuque, and were visiting Washington, DC, and we were lost near Metro Center, and she insisted that I ask the next pedestrian for directions -- you know how men hate to ask directions, right?

FITZGERALD: Yes, yes, I know. You may leave now, Mr. X. Thanks for your help. And please don't speak to the press about this -- it could, uh, be embarrassing.

MR. X: For me?

FITZGERALD: No, for me.