11.   The denials have done little to quell speculation that ABN is pursuing NatWest.

12.   The mark gained further ground Thursday because signs of an economic pickup in Germany quelled speculation the Bundesbank will cut interest rates.

13.   The news quelled speculation that the government will raise interest rates soon.

14.   The numbers were in line with economists expectations and did nothing to quell the speculation over a rate cut.

15.   The statement was intended to quell speculation that the three men were engaged in a dispute that might lead to the break up of their four-year partnership.

16.   The weak economic reports quelled speculation that the Bank of Japan will raise interest rates anytime soon.

17.   Those gains came as reports showed slowing money supply growth and ebbing business confidence in Germany, quelling speculation that German interest rates may soon head higher.

18.   Top labor and business leaders also sought to quell speculation they would reject government efforts to rein in inflation.

19.   Top labor and business leaders sought to quell speculation they would reject government efforts to rein in inflation.

20.   West telephoned the Golden State Warriors last week to quell speculation that he was interested in joining the franchise in any capacity.