61.   Help was offered from another quarter Thursday, when former president Jimmy Carter offered his services as a mediator.

62.   A more optimistic view was offered from Gruntal analyst Charles Lemonides.

63.   Despite all the turmoil, Scala, who is also believed to have had offers from Spain and Germany, has clearly not lost his sense of humour.

64.   South Western Electricity is currently subject to a hostile cash and bonds takeover offer from the giant US utility, Southern Co.