Did you notice how much pressure they put on Don to "do what he does" to sell American? Seems as if they were re-designing everything down to the ticket folders and menus.

I'm sorry, I can't find anything remotely interesting or appealing about Duck - the only things that are interesting are the trouble he causes and the tension he creates with other characters.

Dod you think Pete is repenting of having sided with Duck, which is the only way American would have even considered talking to Sterling Cooper?

Did Duck imply that Bert was senile when he told the gum chewing secretary that Bert would forget he'd fired her?

bocaratonfan:

Yep, I'm getting the feeling that ole Bert is starting to lose it.

If he's losing his marbles, and Roger is sidelined by ill health, who's going to take over at SC?

I predict Roger will drop dead "in flagrante delicto." Maybe on top of Vicky?

Duck needs a good beat down by Don Draper! I'm sick of Duck's smarmy ass!

Don won't beat him down with fists - he'll do it business style.

Wouldn't it be brilliantly horrible if SC got the call that they WON American? Who would get the most credit... Don or Duck? I would hate to see this because Don would have been wrong, but his hard work would have payed off... and it would be the makings of some great conflict.

I hope Don tops his get even scheme with Roger (the oysters/martinis unchuck scenario) when he gets even with Duck. Can't wait to see what he comes up with...hope that take down is in front of everyone just like Roger's was!

Meant upchuck! woops....

In case anyone cares, the actor who plays "Duck" is the same actor who played the ineffectual lieutenant in "Platoon."

"Yep, I'm getting the feeling that ole Bert is starting to lose it."

I'm not so sure. He's always been eccentric (walking around in stockinged feet instead of shoes) but he instantly knew what Shel's firing from AA meant to SC. I think he's keeping a discreet but eagle eye on Duck/Roger/Don. He has no illusions about the limits of Roger's contributions to the firm, has a fair idea of what Don could do, and isn't as enamoured of Duck as Duck is.

I think Duck's remark to the secretary Bert fired is telling. Obviously, Duck thinks he can:

1) countermand a decision by Bert (even an insignificant one)
2) that Bert is becoming senile and forgetful (very indiscreet comment to make to a subordinate about the head of the company);
3) that he is immune from any repercussions for poor business decisions (American Airlines pitch);
4) has Roger's complete support and protection;
4) he is the decisionmaker/figurehead boss at Sterling Cooper.

Neither Roger or Bert blasted Duck for the turn of events or his absence of any alternate plans regarding American Airlines. Duck congratulating Don for his AA presentation as if Don is HIS subordinate? Overstepping his boundaries. I have an idea Duck is going to assume power where he shouldn't some day (like Bert's territory or running over the top of a Bert decision), and be taken down immediately. Even Roger wouldn't stand by and let someone trample over Bert (nor would Bert allow it for himself) - Roger's too fond of Bert.

Don won't have to put the noose around Duck's neck. Duck will hang himself with his own presumptions.

If Duck thinks Burt is senile, I think Duck is likely to end up on the menu. In fairness I don't think so, I believe Duck has learned Burt's eccentricities and really was trying to be kind. Still, Burt dislikes him and Don is a partner. I can't see Duck managing much of a fight should they decide his time has come.

Actually I see more likely Don watching a man he respects if doesn't like crumble when Burt finally calls Duck on something. Remember that Duck is known as "damaged goods"...He had a drinking problem and a woman problem and I think under the facade is a man who will break dramatically. Matt spared Harry...I doubt Duck will be so lucky.

Weiner is throwing us a curve ball with this one. I think SC got the AA account and Duck will waltz in looking like the cat who ate the canary. Don's anomosity towards Duck has been obvious. Don's refusal to show his demonstration before the AA meeting, remarks about delivering a still born baby, shoving the Shell demonstration packet at Duck and other bad behaviors will be egg on Don's face!! Duck will relish in his victory and the tension between Duck and Don will escalate. Pete, Ken, Harry and Paul will join with Duck as their new hero and Don is the old man who needs to retire. Roger will join the ranks of Duck and Don will slowly lose ground. The tension will build all season between these two

Oh luvmadmen, do you really think Don is going to be the dinosaur heading toward extinction because the "rules of the game" (and how to play them) have changed?

Congratulations, bocaraton, on your MM prize this week (me too)! BTW, love your questions!

Thanks, jamm! We had tropical storm fay come thru early this morning and most of today, by the way. Dumped lots of rain, which we need (have been in a drought for several years, which for us does not mean total lack of rain, but not as much as we usually get, which is lots by everyone else's standards!)

Congrats to you, jamm, on your being quoted and winning, too! You always have something insightful and clever to say.

Finally, once again I find myself in complete agreement with jamm in the list of numbered comments and questions above. Duck continues to prove himself the least likeable character; someone you would love to hate and to see him fall.

Or maybe the more sickening possibility is that they're going to show Duck having fun! Eewww....I don't think I can handle Duck smiling, boozing and making out with someone. Not unless he gets a better outfit!