"I thought you were gone," Garion said, speaking quietly to avoid waking his wife and son.

"Immediately," Druaga said, and wondered if he spoke so quickly to avoid losing his nerve.

A few politicians spoke of the need to avoid hysterical treatment of the question.

The two spoke on condition of anonymity to avoid being pulled into the matter publicly.

I would like to speak with you to avoid an unpleasant confrontation.

Lawyers and others spoke about the case on condition of anonymity to avoid conflict with federal prosecutors.

They allowed no aides in the meeting and spoke in English to avoid the need for interpreters.

Players spoke about the need to avoid a repeat of the slow start that nearly ended the Jets' season before it began.

He spoke softly to avoid hurting her even more.

He spoke via audio link to avoid being seen.