The only way manual systems could work for a larger group would be through a pyramid-like mechanism, with small groups reporting their manually obtained results up the chain to more central tabulating authorities.

CNN: How secure is the papal election?

There are small and effective groups like this all over the country -- like one in Minnesota that collects top-brand hockey equipment for military children, or the barbecue lovers in Ohio that travel the state providing meals for military family picnics, deployment and welcome-home ceremonies, or the accountants across the country that dedicate their talents every spring to help with tax returns.

WHITEHOUSE: First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden Address National Governors Association | The White House

For what it is worth, the intentions of Messrs Adams and McGuinness are not doubted by the small republican splinter groups who like to denounce Sinn Fein as traitors.

ECONOMIST: Sinn Fein comes on board