For that reason, some senators are discussing adding conditions, congressional officials said.

As the senator discussed their finances, the telecast again showed Pat Nixon, fixedly watching her husband.

Both senators discussed the importance of government assistance in making college more affordable and noted their accomplishments in that area.

"And what else did you and the senator discuss?"

When senators discuss among themselves motions on procedures and even the final verdict, they must retire behind closed doors.

A senator could make a brief statement, discuss the matter in detail, or talk about an unrelated topic.

Two senators openly discussed the conversations, and aides who had been instructed not to speak to the press described them on condition of anonymity.

The senator would not discuss the call, but he has pushed for more consultation on judicial nominations.

The senators would not discuss details of the meeting, which was closed to reporters, but each side evidently heard what it needed to hear.

"You and the senator should discuss this," Lutt said.