71.   But McCarty seems on his way to balancing his high energy with calm decisions.

72.   But the bombing of the convoy served as a reminder that Afghanistan still seems on the brink of factional and tribal conflict, sometimes accentuated by foreign powers.

73.   But the investigators seemed on television like bullies and blowhards and were never able to show that Ronald Reagan himself had abused his office.

74.   But the Netherlands seem on the road to recovery.

75.   But some of the more militant students seem bent on confrontation, and some members of the security forces seem eager to take them on.

76.   But there is a core of issues on which agreement seems improbable, among them abortion, gun control and major changes to labor laws.

77.   But the memorial as it is now envisioned seems on a glidepath toward final approval.

78.   But though his aides said the president seemed focused on such matters, they said he was quite nervous about the election.

79.   But while the development seems on sure footing now, it has not always been that way.

80.   By most accounts, the logistical preparations seem on track.