31.   He somewhat softened his stance, however, after learning that the convention-welcoming party was underwritten, in large part, by Philip Morris.

32.   He softened his stance yesterday, when asked what he expects from the offense Sunday against Seattle.

33.   His election led to conjecture that the U.S. may soften its stance against Iran, which includes an oil embargo.

34.   Hull has since softened his stance, although players have rallied around Guerin as an Olympic candidate.

35.   If Gonzalez had known he might be traded, he might have softened his stance and been willing to sign for less than the Rangers expected.

36.   If reports emerging in recent days are true, however, the U.S. is softening its stance.

37.   In another sign that South Korea was softening its stance, Lim did not even bother beseeching the United States for help.

38.   In a further sign that South Korea had softened its stance, Lim on Thursday did not bother beseeching the United States for help.

39.   In a radical departure from one of its bedrock principles, the National Collegiate Athletic Association may be softening its stance on amateurism.

40.   In answer to a question, Lynch said he had no reason to believe the pope would soften his stance that the priesthood must be reserved to celibate males.