But on the day of his historic resignation - in the shadow of St Peter's Basilica - it was hard to find anybody speaking badly of him.

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Nor does the U.S. seem all that badly off, comparatively speaking, when it comes to its ability to finance a bailout.

WSJ: Opinion: America Will Remain the Superpower

In 1981, Michael Heseltine was dubbed Mr Merseyside after visiting the area following the Toxteth riots and speaking up on behalf of a region suffering badly from recession.

BBC: Lord Heseltine: a man with lots of 'baggage'

Speaking in practical terms, do you think that is a possible consequence should things go wrong or go badly in the future.

NPR: Negotiating America's Future in Iraq

Ram Singh, 34, also had a badly injured hand and would have been unable to orchestrate a suicide, his father said, speaking from outside his small home in a New Delhi slum.

NPR: Police: Delhi Gang Rape Suspect Kills Self In Jail