21.   A settlement was reached because neither side wanted a court battle.

22.   All sides want to show bipartisan ability to handle this long-scheduled legislation while also paying attention to the emergency ?

23.   All sides want it to happen.

24.   Both sides want Clinton to use his influence to force a compromise.

25.   Both sides want some sort of rookie-salary scale.

26.   But at the same time, both sides clearly want to use the good will to advantage.

27.   But both sides clearly want to fix Social Security.

28.   But each side wants dramatic steps from the other while reserving the right to move gingerly itself.

29.   But even without a formal truce, it is clear no side wants to push the others too hard.

30.   But it could happen if neither side wants to be seen backing down.