51.   A palace statement quoted Ambassador Howard Dee, the head of the government negotiating panel, as saying that both sides were preparing for the talks with optimism.

52.   Although both sides are preparing for polls, the opposition maintains it would boycott any election held under Zia.

53.   Both sides prepared for battle Thursday.

54.   Caird adjourned the case until Thursday, calling on both sides to prepare their reasons for backing or opposing his removal.

55.   Denmark goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen is bracing for the onslaught as his side prepare to face a France team fighting for their World Cup lives on Tuesday.

56.   The two sides prepared to meet again Friday the second day of discussions, which could continue through the weekend.

57.   The two sides were preparing for negotiations over the Salang.

58.   The fans may have cheered, but both sides are already preparing for life in the First Division next season.