1.   At the same time, though, U.S. officials are clearly softening their claims that U.S. aid will not be used for counterinsurgency.

2.   Bank officials there have softened their secrecy stance in recent years but only on limited ocassions.

3.   Already, White House officials are softening the hard line they took earlier in the year.

4.   But not all government officials have softened their views.

5.   District officials softened their stance, making it easier for parents to opt out of Spanish instruction.

6.   In interviews last week, Secret Service officials softened their position.

7.   Some traders are beginning to fret that U.S. officials may soften their support for a strong dollar if the trade gap with Japan keeps widening.

8.   Some traders are concerned that if the shortfall keeps growing, U.S. officials might soften their strong-dollar stance.

9.   Some traders are concerned that if the U.S. trade gap keeps worsening, U.S. officials might soften their support for a strong dollar.

10.   Some traders are concerned that if the U.S. trade gap with Japan keeps widening, administration officials might soften their strong-dollar stance.