1.   And the speculation will center not so much on companies as on individuals.

2.   And the governor on whom the early speculation centered, Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania, is giving more Republicans pause.

3.   As speculation centers on several in-house candidates, it is useful to remember that Welch himself succeeded a man once regarded as a legend.

4.   But immediate speculation centered on former star USC guard Paul Westphal, who was fired as coach of the Phoenix Suns last month.

5.   But speculation has centered on Pepsi-Cola Co. as perhaps the most logical candidate to buy all or part of Ocean Spray.

6.   But primary speculation centers on a handful of executives at other airlines or someone from outside the industry.

7.   Early speculation centered on mechanical failure.

8.   Early speculation centered on a possible blood clot or other complications from recent hip surgery.

9.   Early speculation centered on the U.S. companies Grey Advertising and Interpublic Group.

10.   Earlier speculation had centered on Oracle and other companies.