After a few early stumbles, Mr. Sanders, whose socialist fervor remains unabated, has grown more popular locally despite losing a statewide Congressional race last year.

Mr. Reich, 47, can hardly be stuck with all the blame for his early stumbles.

Overcoming an early stumble, stock prices climbed steadily yesterday to finish with sizable gains despite a rise in interest rates.

There were some early stumbles; bungee jumping and modified shovel racing did not go over well.

India had an early stumble when big-hitter Sehwag was brilliantly plucked from the air by the athletic David Warner at point off Ben Hilfenhaus for four.

Well known for her gaffes on the stump, Bachmann's early stumbles were forgivable enough.

And since his early stumbles, Mr. Bush has not looked like a candidate who will fall on his face at a critical juncture.

But the early stumble, at least, may be a result of the book's long delay.

It's at this point that the author recovers from her earlier stumble, briskly moving her plot along with admirable agility.

Although there have been some early stumbles, the decision to hand Details to an unknown like Mr. Peres seems like a long shot that will pay off.