But historians remember that an earlier promise of openness by a President proved empty.

As it turned out, keeping that promise proved almost too easy.

And it was unclear whether China's promise to share intelligence on terrorist groups would prove of much value.

The shimmering promise of wealth also proved to be a mirage.

The promise of the virtual neighborhood has proved far-fetched at best.

The promise of cash family allowances from Canada proved decisive.

Because such promises have at times proved difficult to keep, here are some suggestions to make up for any shortfall.

Longer-term promises proved as elusive, in part because India is a free society.

Even in these trying times, however, promises of more aid to developing nations have proved empty, or at best meager.

Alas, the promise of a regular gig proved too good to be true.