31.   The Clinton administration has taken the most restrictive stance in the negotiations -- that blasts should have a force no greater than four pounds of TNT.

32.   The financial markets have signaled a tougher stance in the last two weeks.

33.   The Fed on Tuesday took an aggressive stance in trying to stimulate the economy, cutting short-term lending rates by one-half percentage point.

34.   The increase was anticipated and welcomed by bond traders on optimism that the central bank is taking a proactive stance in sustaining growth, while controlling inflation.

35.   The long-suffering Mavericks fans took a hard stance in the third quarter.

36.   The military has taken a remarkably defensive stance in the smoldering civil war.

37.   The nomination of Klink also marks the second time the White House has taken an anti-abortion stance in the area of foreign policy and international population efforts.

38.   The regulator unveiled the stance in its annual report, released yesterday.

39.   The Seattle Mariners have taken a similar stance in their trade discussions involving Ken Griffey Jr.

40.   The same would be true of Watson, who has adopted a conciliatory stance in the quarterback race.