41.   Speculation had been mounting for months that the junta would seek to end its political isolation by freeing the opposition leader.

42.   Speculation had been mounting since Russia said last week that it might declare Norwegian diplomats persona non-grata.

43.   Speculation has mounted that the Frankfurt-based Deutsche Boerse might launch an unfriendly bid of its own.

44.   Speculation mounted Tuesday the party could finally split over his bitter struggle with Megret, his longtime top lieutenant.

45.   They also expressed solidarity with Iraq as speculations mount that it might become a target of a U.S. attack.

46.   With the events of the past week, speculation mounted that the National Front would finally split over the bitter struggle.

47.   With Nzimbi gone, speculation mounted that a deal had been struck with other generals to allow the rebels to enter the city peacefully.

48.   As speculation mounts about his possible transfer to Nottingham Forest in exchange for the younger Stan Collymore, Mark Hughes posted a timely reminder of his value to United.

49.   But speculation had been mounting throughout the morning that he could not survive another day without increasing the already clear threat of military intervention.

50.   Speculation mounted that Abiola might be released following the announcement that his trial in the federal capital Abuja had been adjourned until Wednesday.