41.   Even so, modest gains in Christmas retail sales point to subdued consumer spending, which may keep the economy from picking up too much steam.

42.   For now, test results show modest gains schoolwide.

43.   GM and Ford Motor Co. showed more modest gains.

44.   General Motors Corp. and Ford Motor Co. showed more modest gains.

45.   However, even modest gains like those would help Republicans break legislative logjams over issues that have lacked a solid conservative edge.

46.   I would expect modest gains in the market, or sideways movement.

47.   If not, she will settle for more modest gains.

48.   If a string of U.S. companies disappoint expectations in the days ahead, investors may be happy just to notch modest gains.

49.   If the Republicans make only modest gains, Gore will still be the most direct beneficiary.

50.   I think the membership would take some modest gains.