31.  But French officials have been cautious not to link the investigation of Beghal directly with the attacks in the United States.

32.  But French officials have made it clear that the planning will be done by current European Union members only.

33.  But French officials are not the only ones concerned.

34.  But French officials, despite pleading by other countries, say they have finished their mission to provide a security zone for people during the fiercest fighting.

35.  But French officials demurred, saying their scientists believed the beef was not safe.

36.  But French officials were incapable of reassessing the situation.

37.  But French officials, speaking privately Thursday, were upset.

38.  But he did point out, with reference to Gilles Jacob, the distinguished French official who oversees festival selections, that even Michael Jordan retired.

39.  But her efforts Friday to arrange a pre-Bonn meeting with Vedrine have not yet succeeded, because of scheduling problems, French officials say.

40.  But high-ranking French officials have suggested that they would order French forces to take part in armed operations to arrest suspects if American troops would take part.