Even now, what Mr Rumsfeld supports is still less clear than what he opposes.

ECONOMIST: Defence policy

In the country's southern half, dominated by the Pushtun ethnic group to which the Taliban leaders belong, it is still much less clear who America's natural allies are.

ECONOMIST: America at last puts large numbers of men on the ground

It is not yet clear whether it will achieve this aim, still less support the allegations of the Lawrence family.

ECONOMIST: Six young Britons | The

"It's one clear option less, that's pretty obvious, but I am still very pleased with my situation, " said Rosberg.

BBC: Rosberg targets switch to McLaren

It says doctors often graduate from medical school "without a clear idea of the normal anatomy of a woman's genitalia, still less the complex physical and psychological consequences that may result from sexual assault".

BBC: News | Health | Worldwide move to stamp out violence against women

On the bright side: as much as consumers are still looking for deals, lower inventory levels at some chains this year means less extreme discounting will be necessary to clear merchandise.

FORBES: Black Friday Weekend: Lots of Buzz, Not So Much Spending