11.  American executives have said that they did not want to launch another round of industry consolidation, but that the company will not stand still if other carriers combine.

12.  American executives trumpeted the plan at a news conference in Washington, D.C., where airline service gripes provoked hearings in Congress last year.

13.  American executives, who declined to comment, continued Monday to negotiate with its potential partners and rivals over the complex five-airline deal.

14.  American corporate executives with commercial interests in China were generously donating to the Democratic Party.

15.  American executives apparently preferred convenient flights over lavish meals and bottles of vintage Bordeaux, and the airlines delivered.

16.  American executives declined to estimate the financial damage suffered by the airline since the slowdown began Saturday.

17.  American executives disputed that allegation.

18.  American executives, a planeload, are now at table, ushered in by the Clinton administration in the person of Commerce Secretary Ron Brown.

19.  American executives, in turn, portrayed themselves as the frustrated party, champing at the bit to enter face-to-face bargaining.

20.  American corporate executives say the China market holds tremendous potential for the United States.