After the touching ending to last night’s debate, Hillary Clinton hasn’t answered whether it was a next to last chorus of a Swan Song. 

Hillary showed compassion and appreciation for the opportunity to run for the office of President in her closing statement of last night’s debate.

And, you know, no matter what happens in this contest — and I am honored, I am honored to be here with Barack Obama. I am absolutely honored. 

Whatever happens, we’re going to be fine. You know, we have strong support from our families and our friends. I just hope that we’ll be able to say the same thing about the American people, and that’s what this election should be about.

Depending on your take, you could presume a graciousness uncommon to the usual Clinton demeanor or you could look at it as a preview of an exit with style.  Personally, I was one of those who was not only shocked by what I perceived as genuine heart felt emotion but also as a lead up to an exit speech if all doesn’t go well on March 4th.  Of course, I must admit that her gracious speech could be one of the old Clinton performances seeking to draw women and Latinos back into her camp.  After all, it is politics and we all know that all is fair in love and politics.

Clinton’s campaign has been strained of late.  Her camp has come to look more like Custer’s last stand than a fully functional organization.  And, money… it’s always about the money.  Apparently, the campaign hasn’t raised enough money to keep up with Senator Obama.  In fact, Hillary may understand the idea of not being able to pay the bills, just like the rest of America.  It has become evident that “fiscal responsibility” may not be one of her strong suits, the flowering of out of control campaign expenses.

When questioned on the morning shows, Senator Clinton declined to make a prediction about what could follow March 4th.  Of course, she didn’t say she would give up the race, but she certainly didn’t say she was in it for the long haul. 

We are only a week and a half out.  Maybe, at last, this long drawn out primary season will give way to the general election.