91.   But airline mergers historically have been fraught with problems ranging from operational glitches and service problems to labor strife.

92.   But analysts say more such mergers are likely.

93.   But Ashton thinks the merger is a sensible idea for the long run.

94.   But broadcast executives and consumer advocates argued that the merger would be bad for consumers in the long run.

95.   But BankBoston prevailed, saying that unless the new company kept most of its branches in Massachusetts, the merger was off.

96.   But Carter said at a press conference Thursday that for Citizens, the merger was one factor behind the timing of the sale.

97.   But Davidowitz said the merger would be a sharp blow to Broadway, which also went through bankruptcy and has been hobbled by the poor California economy.

98.   But Fiorillo cautioned that while the merger was likely to have long-term benefits, it would be disruptive and difficult over the next three to five years.

99.   But Baker believes the merger is worth the trouble.

100.   But further mergers may be far off as the industry digests recent combinations, he said.