21.   But Hutchison said she and other lawmakers have a responsibility to tend to a city that serves as the capital for all Americans.

22.   But few others will have that option if some federal and state lawmakers have their way.

23.   But lawmakers clearly had Moscow in mind when they wrote the bill.

24.   But lawmakers have had immense difficulty agreeing on Medicare drug benefits.

25.   But lawmakers will have to work out many differences among themselves and with President Clinton to translate the proposals into law.

26.   But many lawmakers also have strong ties to community banks, which generally oppose the bill.

27.   But lawmakers have no way of knowing whether their dining partner intends to write off dinner.

28.   But lawmakers still have large personal staffs at their disposal.

29.   But lawmakers may soon have an incentive to act.

30.   But state lawmakers have a number of chances this session to improve their lot, child advocates said.