And rumors of the demise of 420 West Broadway, which have flitted through the art world for more than a year, are gaining substance.

"I don't want to scare them," he said to her in a whisper, "but the rumour has gained ground and what's more it is true."

Slowly the rumor gained ground that our stay at the collecting camp was to end and that we were to be transferred to a punishment camp.

Just last week, as rumours of an engagement gained a hold, I visited the Berkshire village where the Middleton family lives.

This rumor gained them some fans for a time but eventually they lost out to Christianity.

With yesterday's increase, the stock had gained 28 percent since rumors of a merger gained momentum last week.

A rumour that defence was led by an unknown white-clad knight gained popularity among the Crusaders following the battle.

Cher sued the magazine, but the rumor gained even wider acceptance after being picked up from the Paris Match piece and run in other papers.

The rumors gained new urgency today when New Jersey newspapers splashed speculative articles about her departure on the front pages.

How the rumors gained currency - and gathered into the most discussed topic in Hollywood today - remains murky.