21.   But the board closed ranks behind Spindler, who argued that Apple should remain independent, and Graziano chose to quit.

22.   But that criticism might cause Israelis to close ranks around Peres at a time when he needs their political support.

23.   But on the final vote, the Republicans closed ranks, as did the Democrats.

24.   But the Republicans insisted that the Democrats were the first to blindly close ranks in partisanship in helping the White House fight all compromise ideas to call witnesses.

25.   But the people finally did close ranks and begin pursuing land claims, economic reparations and control over natural resources on their traditional range.

26.   But that was when insiders closed ranks around presidents and the rest of us gossiped about the sex lives of movie stars.

27.   But they doubt the motives of his adversaries even more, so they close ranks.

28.   But they have not been extinguished, thanks in part to the leaders who clasped hands and closed ranks at Sharm el-Sheik.

29.   But when it comes to the existence of Santa, an awful lot close ranks.

30.   By contrast, the Finance Ministry in Japan appears to have closed ranks with the bank to minimize embarrassment and cover up the damage.