Smalltalk runs in an instance. Python can be used simply as a call; it was designed that way (like Perl). I'm not sure how you would do that with Smalltalk.
You mean the Smalltalk VM has to be fired up first? I was naively assuming this would be handled something similar to Java SPs.
Acutally in the back of my mind I have this idea of a normal looking Squeak environment with an extension that adds postgres capabilities, and some objects would have a "stored" property indicating they are really SPs.
Squat is Craig Latta's minimal Squeak project. Basically he's trying to get the thing down to a little server kernel that has just enough capability to bulk itself up on demand over a network connection. Last I heard he was in the sub 100k range.
If you bug him about it he'll probably help you. There is a mailing list. My guess is that squat by itself is adequate for your project.
The tree of research must from time to time be refreshed with the blood of bean counters. -- Alan Kay