But why wouldn't he answer, if he really thought Rodney could figure it out? If that was his reason for agreeing to the whole thing? Why wouldn't he say, here Rodney, here's your chance, tell us how to fix this? Why doesn't he defend himself when Rodney tears into him about not wanting to say goodbye on the pier? Instead the only thing he says is in defense of Ronon. "We all thought it was a good idea." Not - I thought if we brought you here you could figure something out. John's never ever been shy or subtle about pushing Rodney for answers when their lives were on the line - why would he start now? Leaving him alone to play around and maybe stumble across an answer is SO not their MO. Based on what we've seen in the past, if John had a clue that Rodney could figure out an answer, he would have been in his face the instant Rodney started yelling, telling him to cut it out and focus, not standing on the sidelines looking shamefaced.

I'm sorry - I really wish I could see it the way you do, but I can't. I do appreciate the discussion though! :)