1. I wasn't dangling -- in fact, I almost forgot that I ever asked the question (I've been occupied with other matters).
2. Henry Kissinger is a talented person, but I don't agree that he is "the best speaker and writer of our language," nor is he "The most articulate American." Good use of grammar is not the only criterion of articulate speech or writing; in fact, it may not be the most important, either.
3. I don't believe that it is possible (nor even desirable) to identify one person as "the most" or "the best" anything; as my rhetoric professors might have said: "Sweeping generalizations are never true!"

Sorry to be contrary, but thanks just the same for the belated response, and may all of you lovely fellow grammar lovers have a lovely, restful Thanksgiving.

Redundantly yours,

Paul D.

P.S. For those of you who might be interested in why I have been so long silent on the list, you might want to check out the (lovely?) website I designed for my school theatre program: www.pomperaug.com/organizations/theatre -- it's kept me busy, and it's a doozy!