The latest chapter in the Michael Vick saga played out yesterday down at the Nova Care Center.

Call this one Chapter Two.

The first chapter was the shock that curdled across the region when the Eagles decided to roll the dice and sign the one-time dog-fighting ring operator.

Yesterday the Eagles continued their push to ease the ruffled feathers caused by that move by sitting down with animal rights activists.

Maybe they think this thing is going to blow over.

They could not be more wrong.

Later today Andy Reid is expected to announce whether or not Vick will actually take the field Thursday night at the Linc when the Eagles play their important third exhibition game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Most people close to the team indicate that Vick – who has been suspended for the first two preseason games – likely will get the green light to play.

Which will set up one of the great media three-ring circuses in recent memory as the eyes of the nation turn to South Philly.

All they need to do is erect a big top over Lincoln Financial Field.

My position – as well as that of this newspaper paper - is clear. Vick deserves a second chance. That means he gets a second shot at the NFL, and yes, that includes his $1.5 million salary. Vick doesn’t work for minimum wage. He’s an NFL quarterback. Believe it or not, the Eagles are getting him cheap.

But the expense they face is a mounting wall of public opinion opposing the team’s decision to sign Vick.

Those voices are not likely to be stilled anytime soon. Don’t believe me? Tune in Thursday night.