1.   But the elder Kim seemed to recognize the limits of that posture and quietly resumed a larger role to assure a smooth succession.

2.   Indeed, his own last-minute machinations, though wrenching, appear to have laid the ground for a smooth succession.

3.   Political analysts say the decree shows the king is determined to ensure a smooth succession once he finally leaves the political scene or dies.

4.   Thomson rose after it announced management changes to ensure a smooth succession in its executive suites.

5.   A way to ensure smooth succession to the Saudi throne should be found, top Saudi prince says.

6.   But Al Venter, a Washington-based Middle East expert, points to history in saying a smooth succession is unlikely.

7.   Government officials and prominent legislative members of the ruling party Golkar have always maintained that Indonesia has its own institutional mechanisms to ensure a smooth succession of power.

8.   Yeltsin alone can end it by presiding over a smooth succession, and throwing the weight of his still considerable prestige behind his successor.