The amendments could come in various sizes or shapes, in some cases written to wreck careful compromises that have broadened support for the bill.

This was a careful compromise between those who wanted full annexation of the islands or cessation of the Harbor, and others who opposed any threats to sovereignty.

Mr. Bush, who says he is deeply uneasy about the work, struck a careful compromise.

That careful compromise limited, but did not cast aside, a state's ability to regulate abortion.

The increase in the access charge, to $3.50 from the current $2, was a careful compromise by the commission, which had wanted a larger increase but encountered strong Congressional opposition.

It is a test of whether a divided Israel, uncertain in its course, can be led to careful compromise by a caring benefactor.

Nobody can believe that Mr. Asquith regards these belated and careful compromises about Home Rule as "the biggest battle of his career."

Social conservatives, the heart of Mr. Bush's base, had demanded the president keep his promise to veto any measure that altered the careful compromise he articulated in 2001.

But the House bill is a careful compromise with strong support on the left and the right.