Representatives for the other three companies also declined to comment.

Representatives for the other companies involved in the talks declined to comment.

Representatives of the five either declined to comment or did not return telephone calls.

Representatives of the two men have declined to comment on the speculation.

Representatives of both companies declined to comment on any possible business combinations.

Representatives for all the firms involved declined to comment yesterday.

Representatives of the two banks declined to comment on the negotiations.

Representatives of the medical organizations declined to comment on the lawsuit or did not return calls.

Representatives of both companies declined to discuss the settlement Monday.

Representatives for both the firm and prosecutors declined to comment yesterday.