But if they render a negative verdict, the results can be disastrous.

"If the Republicans suffer losses, it is a negative verdict on competence rather than ideology," he continued.

Reversal of that negative verdict could, in turn, open the door to renewed discussion within China on establishing a more democratic form of government.

Moreover, since Microsoft is likely to appeal any negative verdict, it could be years before the rulings have any impact on the company.

For the first time, negative verdicts on the Turkish model of relations between the sexes are coming out of the Turkish community itself.

Her negative verdict on the current papacy seems to rest finally upon its seeming support for Reagan Administration foreign policy in Central America.

This trial has been carefully watched internationally and if there is a negative verdict it will undoubtedly be a miscarriage of justice.

What is different, though, is the reaction to the Court of Auditors' negative verdict.

If national parliaments pass a negative verdict by majority, this should have consequences.

The next afternoon, at 3, the C.D.C. delivered its verdict: negative for smallpox.