The obscure Senate functionary whose word is law

SENATORS, ALAS, are not much like nuns. But the Senate itself bears a certain resemblance to a convent, with its hushed halls, arcane rituals and air of separation from real life. Above all, it has a Mother Superior, who is a stickler for the rules. She is immune to criticism and flattery. Her work is dull and thankless. In theory she answers to a higher power. In practice she is almighty. She is the Senate parliamentarian.