1.  A battered old guitar was his most treasured possession.

2.  A better solution is for automakers to develop air bags that inflate more slowly, lessening the risk of injury.

3.  A big dray horse might be suited to haul a coal wagon, a more delicate saddle horse to recreational riding.

4.  A bill that would have slashed child support payments for most divorced fathers failed in the state Assembly.

5.  A bit more cultured, a bit more refined, a bit more genteel.

6.  A bossy, fussy girl with only a few friends, she frustrated and alienated even the people who loved her most.

7.  A brave attempt, but ruined by the fact that neither of the elements are really up to much.

8.  A brief discussion of the most popular herbs in game cooking is in order.

9.  A brisk walk or jog for half-an-hour will do much more to build stamina than a twelve-second sprint.