The swearing-in of Gov. David A. Paterson on Monday put to an end to a sad era of politics in New York State, one in which a man of great potential was pulled down by his own limits and frailties. It is a story repeated throughout human history, but one that still manages to take your breath away and leave you in utter disbelief.

Paterson has had his own issues in his personal life and his marriage, as we learned shortly after he took the oath of office. But they are distinct from the hypocritical exercise of former Governor Eliot Spitzer who placed himself above the law, and above the consequences of his own actions, while holding all others accountable with a steely hand.

We would hope that Paterson's transgression within his marriage is an isolated incident of human frailty at a low point in his life, and that the rest of his life, and his record of public service, are set at higher standards. From accounts of those who know him, that appears to be the case.

Americans, and certainly New Yorkers, are not unforgiving people. But they do demand honesty and decency in their public officials. Time will tell if we have it now in the Governor's office.