In recent months, say many diplomats here, Mr. Fayyad has become the single most significant behind-the-scenes force keeping the Palestinian Authority solvent, not a role he or his employers originally envisioned.

Undoubtedly the most important behind-the-scenes force in the pay dispute was the city's $5 billion deficit.

Highly respected for his devotion to the arts and history, Mr. Small once described himself to an Illinois newspaper as "a behind-the-scenes" force.

He bought and remodeled a magnificent Spanish-style house on the ocean in Montecito and became a potent behind-the-scenes political force in Santa Barbara County.

They are manipulated by a mysterious behind-the-scenes force, confused by red herrings, baffled by the "mechanical marvel" that is Twain's house and ultimately find their own lives threatened.

He owned three first-class nightclubs and was a behind-the-scenes force in many banking activities.

Styled by Bill Mullen, a behind-the-scenes force at Versace and other labels, the photographs feature male and female models in men's and women's clothing with interchangeable androgynous allure.

Ms. Goncalves da Silva was a behind-the-scenes force in electing the male-dominated leadership of the school.

Mr. Mbeki, 56, has been a powerful behind-the-scenes force here.

Son Jim Gabler of Phoenix, Arizona, recalled that his father was a behind-the-scenes force in the organization, while his mother handled public relations.