1.   Bolstering the perception that economic growth is slow enough to encourage the Fed to lower interest rates were reports that retailers sold less merchandise than expected last month.

2.   In an effort to bolster perceptions of central bank independence, Macfarlane and Treasurer Peter Costello last month signed a so-called Statement on the Conduct of Monetary Policy.

3.   That will likely bolster the perception that the economy remains on shaky ground and increase demand for fixed income investments.

4.   The latest monthly payroll number was in line with expectations, bolstering the perception of a slow-growth economy with tame inflation and sending stocks to early highs.

5.   The latest economic reports were in line with expectations, bolstering the perception of a slow-growth economy with tame inflation and sending stocks to early highs.

6.   The loss of jobs last month bolstered the perception the economy will slow on its own, allowing the Fed to refrain from raising rates on overnight bank loans.

7.   To bolster the perception of authority, the ads are deliberately low key, without headlines or hoopla.

8.   Those statistics bolstered the perception, held by many analysts, that the Fed will boost rates as early as July to keep inflation under control.

9.   U.S. bonds gained as signs of slower manufacturing in the mid-Atlantic region bolstered the perception that the market rout may be reaching its end.

10.   Her lawyers repeatedly accused witnesses of lying, and any inconsistent stories would help bolster that perception.