But it was clear that he felt defeated by his initial attempt.
"Tiny little things just grow, mostly by our attempts to stop them," he said.
Why are some Americans put off by attempts to encourage more energy efficiency in their homes?
But by its third and fourth attempts, it was down to taking just a few yards of line with each runoff.
Still, he didn't feel reassured by his attempt at logic.
I am much less convinced by her attempts to show that science itself is often hijacked in this way.
And even where he fails to effect a reversal of sentence by his first attempt, there is still hope left for him.
The move comes as many businesses grow frustrated by unsuccessful attempts to hold down medical costs.
He seemed to have been discomfited by his own awkward attempt to get tough.
It may be made worse by attempts at precise, coordinated movements.