Because of the wide range of works being offered, the drawing - and in particular, an early selection - was important.

They seemed sound enough, reassuring him of his earlier selection.

Again, the early human selection of crops 7,000-10,000 years ago is thought to have occurred quite unintentionally.

"It's not so much a talent search as a civil right," he said of the early selection of future musicians.

Another technique used by breeders since the time of Burbank is to make early selections.

Leaf type, height, and branching are other criteria for early selection.

Next, there was a form to fill out, one that varies according to the earlier selection.

But now that early selection has become the pattern, the choice seems to have gained additional importance.

Martin, an early third-round selection, has elected to play in Japan.

Next year, however, they will probably have the early selections once again, their fans having endured another losing season.