THE PRESIDENCY by HUGH SIDEY: The Long Party Is Over

THE PRESIDENCY

In those days before the election, Gerald Ford danced across the great American political stage like Fred Astaire out on the back lot of MGM. Sometimes in tux and shiny slippers, other times in button-down and plaid, always with a smile, a beefy victory clasp and a quip, he shuffled along to the chants of the airport crowds, the brassy tunes of high school bands and occasionally a dance combo.

Around the White House Press Room, they are still talking about the Friday with a dozen different and distinct campaign activities, not counting sleeping, eating and breathing. He was unquenchable, inexhaustible,...