During the holidays, the president is a virtual prisoner in the White House. He and his wife will perform this grueling act of cheer at 26 holiday parties between Dec. 4 and Dec. 20. There’s one for the diplomatic corps, members of Congress, the Secret Service, and top military brass. Invites also go out to political donors and allies across the country. The last evening is reserved for the White House staff—the plumbers, electricians, cooks, and butlers who hang the president’s towels when he leaves them on the bed and polish his floor. For most of that period, the Bushes will have “two-a-days,” hosting one party from 4 to 6 p.m. and a second from 7 to 9.

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