But officials and lawmakers here fear that this positive image has been tarred by several recent developments.

Some lawmakers fear that as many as 20 percent of seniors may be unable to pass the tests.

Some lawmakers simply fear what a long Clinton siege could do for public confidence in Government.

None of the measures have passed - perhaps because lawmakers fear the consequences.

Some lawmakers fear that the bill will fail to end corruption or ease popular discontent with the police.

Third, there is Ross Perot, who lawmakers fear would and could generate public concern about money in elections.

Many lawmakers had feared they would have to return to Albany next week to haggle over that issue some more.

The provision was never brought to a separate vote because anti-abortion lawmakers feared they would be beaten badly today.

The step was delayed two years ago because lawmakers feared it would lead to bank runs and financial chaos.

Some lawmakers fear that the numbers could drop if a $15 million bridge to the island from New Jersey is built in 1997, as scheduled.