Rex Tillerson was woefully miscast as secretary of state. He was arrogant and taciturn, or just plain introverted. The so-called “God Pod” at the head of Exxon Mobil had accustomed him to rule by remoteness. He operated behind a wall zealously guarded by his chief of staff, Margaret Peterlin, and succeeded in alienating countless dedicated Foreign Service officers who departed.

Busy trying to forge the relationship with President Trump he never had, Tillerson acquiesced to the steady dismemberment of the State Department through budget cuts, unfilled posts and disrespect of expertise. This was unpardonable.

He came in knowing little of foreign policy or how government works in Washington; his learning curve was not quick. He leaves having demonstrated that what it takes at Exxon is not what it takes at State.

Still, I confess to a scintilla of admiration for Tillerson, reinforced by the foul manner of his firing. It’s clear that this Texas oilman was, as he got to know Trump, personally offended by his dishonesty and vainglory.