Precisely! And coupled with the statement that the leaker called Novak later to explain his mistaken exposure of Ms. Plame, this still allows for Wilson to be the primary source.
Novak: "Another double Manhattan, Joe? Say, How were you chosen by the CIA for the Niger investigation?"
Wilson: "Thanks for drink, Bob. Well, I had some inside encouragment, my wife works there."
Inadvertant and phrased to be inoccuous. Only problem is that Novak was a good reporter and headed to known resources to find a real name. Good reporters don't just print "his wife" or "Mrs. Joe Wilson".
"And coupled with the statement that the leaker called Novak later to explain his mistaken exposure of Ms. Plame, this still allows for Wilson to be the primary source. "
Extraodinarily doubtful. Especially considering that Novak says the source is not a "political gunslinger". Wilson is certainly a political back-shooter.