Marbury's Folder of Credentials from Queen Elizabeth II

Marbury surges forward, folder slicing Oval tension—stiff leather or cardstock sheath bulging with vellum letter of credence and sealed credentials from Queen Elizabeth II. Bartlet snatches it, pen flashing signature and seal to ratify amid entourage handshakes, photo flashes popping as transatlantic barbs over missile shields hang suspended. Nancy, Charlie, Josh, Leo circle the ritual exchange, diplomacy's blade sheathed in protocol.

1 appearances

Purpose

Presents formal diplomatic credentials from Queen Elizabeth II for presidential acceptance via signature and seal, formalizing Lord Marbury's ambassadorial authority.

Significance

Catalyzes explosive U.S.-U.K. clash on national missile defense—Marbury denounces as escalatory peril, Leo champions as nuclear bulwark—masks raw post-test fractures, elevates protocol ritual amid eco-backlash and staff schisms.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

1 moments

S2E12 · The Drop-In

Marbury's Credential Ceremony Sparks Missile Shield Showdown

Tom formally tenders the folder to Bartlet on Marbury's behalf during credential ceremony; Bartlet accepts, examines, signs, and affixes seal to the enclosed letter of credence from Queen Elizabeth II, proclaiming Marbury ambassador—narrative pivot from pomp to policy brinkmanship, underscoring alliance fragility post-missile test failure.

Before: Intact and held by Marbury or presented by Tom in Oval Office

After: Signed, sealed by Bartlet, and officially ratified, retained post-handshakes and photos

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