21.   But the fact that both sides were talking for more than six hours produced some rare optimism.

22.   But the road to resolution appears so complex at the moment that neither side is talking to the other.

23.   But the situation is so bad now, the officials say, that Ross has first to get the two sides talking about security before leaping too far ahead.

24.   But this sequel to the war in Chechnya could have been avoided, they say, if only both sides would talk.

25.   By Friday, the rhetoric had cooled, and both sides were talking, but an agreement seemed close, only to slip away.

26.   Canadian Auto Workers President Buzz Hargrove and company spokesmen said today the sides are talking but making no progress.

27.   FedEx also confirmed that the two sides were talking, but a spokesman declined to provide any details.

28.   For all the sense of novelty, the idea that the two sides are talking comes as no shock, certainly not in Israel.

29.   He said that the two sides talked for several hours on Sunday night and were to meet Tuesday night to discuss potential sites.

30.   Huizenga has met with Pro Player executive Doug Kelly, Seligman said, and both sides are talking as if they intend to honor the contract.