The basic allegations against Mr. Wright have been known for some time.

This ability to charm may have helped him, too, in the case against Mr. Wright, although members of the ethics committee resent the suggestion.

The ethics complaint against Mr. Wright falls under strategy, he said.

It then began deliberations on what action, if any, should be taken against Mr. Wright.

In addition to the charges already brought against Mr. Wright, the ethics committee is still investigating a potentially serious matter.

The case against Mr. Wright was presented as one of petty graft involving fake book deals.

The Ethics Committee considered several charges against Mr. Wright (and is investigating others).

Since the ethics committee has no jurisdiction over a former member of the House, the case against Mr. Wright could become moot.

The committee itself will now draft a report and decide whether to recommend action against Mr. Wright.

The 69 charges brought against Mr. Wright by the House ethics committee are only that: charges.