dilbert asking wally is just nuts. that is an obvious situation even juniors are aware of. even if PHB find some room, he just won't gather back people to run that meeting anyway. The best choice is alice's one.
PHB is missing an important point when it comes to avoiding disappointment. He is hoping for the best and expecting the best. Since he's not getting the outcome he hoped for, he is disappointed. He would be better served to always hope for the best and expect the worst, thus eliminating the possibility of disappointment.