ST. PAUL -- While some of them had to hurry back home, the remaining members of the Louisiana delegation this morning were treated to a breakfast with First Lady Laura Bush and Cindy McCain.

Delegation chairman Bryan Wagner opened the breakfast by noting the somber mood of the delegates was at odds with what was supposed to be a celebration.

"Gustav has kind of rained on our parade a little bit," said Wagner. "But I want you to know that my heart is cheering because of the wonderful things that the McCain people have done for the people in Louisiana." The McCain campaign had chartered a plane last night to carry delegates back to their homes.

Mrs. McCain, flanked by her four children, told the gathered delegates that "our hearts and thoughts are with you and everybody in the Gulf Coast."

"America stands with you," she said, before speaking about her husband's experience to be president.

"Because of all his life experiences [he will] make the finest president we've ever had," she said to an ovation. Mrs. McCain also noted that Gov. Sarah Palin was "a maverick just like my husband."

Mrs. Bush also applauded Palin as a "huge asset for our country and such a beautiful face our country," referring to America's image to the world. "I'm so happy because I'll finally have the chance to vote for a Republican woman this time," Mrs. Bush said to applause.