91.   But now the worst is almost certainly over for McCleary, the surgeon, David Mulder, said at a hushed news conference Sunday.

92.   But it is at least possible that the worst may now be over.

93.   But that point appears more elusive than ever, even though some strategists think the worst is over.

94.   But the events Tuesday suggested strongly that the worst is yet to come.

95.   But recently a study appeared showing that the worst was worse than almost anyone had imagined.

96.   But the worst may yet be ahead.

97.   But the worst was on its way.

98.   But the worst would be to do nothing.

99.   But the sun was shining Saturday morning, and many Western rivers have begun to recede, fortifying hopes in many areas that the worst is over.