In the end it was very quick. Phone calls through the night; be at Hillsborough at 8am sharp.
At 9.30am the four boys entered the room, looking very pleased with themselves.
The star of the show was Peter Robinson who gave a statesman-like and at times very funny speech.
"Gordon, I know that you are looking forward to the London Olympics in 2012," the First Minister said.
"If we can agree that 'negotiating' would be included as one of the sports, we will enter a team, we will lift the gold medal ... and then we'll enter into negotiations about what flag and national anthem we use."
The relief was evident.
Brian Cowen suggested this could be the most important agreement of all.
Gordon Brown avoided a ''hand of history'' moment but was obviously very pleased with himself.
Martin McGuinness said this was the day which could change politics ''in the North'' for ever.
But there one cringe worthy moment when the First and deputy first Ministers were asked to shake hands in public.
''This is no time for stunts,'' said Peter Robinson.
And there was no toast for absent friends.
The Ulster unionists were notable by their absence.
Twice Peter Robinson said Sir Reg Empey's support was essential for the deal.
You could feel the Westminster general election in the air.
But for now, at least, it was all smiles.
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