Mr. Hanemann, who has back and neck ailments, also said that he would be entering a hospital in October for an operation that would require at least a four-month absence.

During a four-month absence from Zaire for cancer treatment in Europe, Mr. Mobutu, 66, has seen a newborn rebel movement sweep much of the country's eastern region with virtually no challenge from the largely unpaid national army.

Sanders' actions in Alabama became the subject of an investigation in June 1865 when he returned to Pensacola after an unauthorized four-month absence.

The pitcher, who rejoined the Yankees only 25 days ago after a four-month absence because of surgery to remove an aneurysm from under his right armpit, solidified his status as an ace.

"Having Herbert back also meant a lot," he said, alluding to Mitchell, his caddy of 19 years who, because of a heart condition, was forced to lose about 75 pounds during a four-month absence.

Despite numerous injuries, including the four-month absence of pitcher David Cone, the Yankees have survived and thrived and Steinbrenner credited Torre for "keeping the team together."

Not all of what Seles said made sense, but it was still the day's tennis highlight, for at least she appeared on the verge of coming back from what then was a four-month absence.

Matsui had four hits on Tuesday in his return from a four-month absence with a broken left wrist.

"I was shocked and disappointed," said Ewing, who fought back from wrist surgery and a four-month absence last season.

Increased Militancy So when the students return to their regular schools, for many of them the four-month absence may actually have increased their militancy.