It starts with seeing a tiny cloud on the horizon – and that’s the first sign; then, next, out of nowhere chains of emails start floating across the Internet – and that’s the second sign: After studying Donald Trump with unease (and amazement) and Ben Carson with hope (but doubt) conservatives’ eyes have now locked on Ted Cruz.

Their voices (asking: Could he be the one?) are not a roar or even a blip in a poll but, even though they’re half-expecting disappointment, they’re also hoping maybe, just maybe, this time they’re watching a tide rising.

There’s a moment in a campaign when voters look at a candidate and ask: Who is he? Ted Cruz is about to have his moment.