Frankfurter, a conservative who nevertheless was convinced that segregation had to end, foresaw a decision that would end segregation, but only by a five-to-four vote. Such a narrow margin would make implementation difficult, if not impossible. As a delaying tactic, Frankfurter suggested rehearing the arguments. The new hearings were scheduled for December 1953, but in September Vinson suddenly died of a heart attack. “This is the first indication I have ever had that there is a God,” said Frankfurter.
