Opinion polls show that Canadians approve of Mr Harper's leadership, but that has not rubbed off on his party.

ECONOMIST: Canada

For one thing, the magic has not rubbed off on his own party.

ECONOMIST: Al Gore��s unruly party

Don't be so weak as to forget problems which are not constantly being rubbed in your face.

BBC: Is the world doing enough for quake areas?

During his first week with the Derbyshire team, his blond hair was turned black after members of the senior team rubbed boot polish into his scalp, but it was not long before he was gaining the players' respect on the training pitch.

BBC: Davies call-up long time in the making

He said that the policemen had splashed soapy water on the floor and walls of the cell, as they usually did, and that the old man, who had not bathed in a week, had yanked his shirt off and rubbed his frail back against the wet floor.

NEWYORKER: Cell One

Fans did not have the spectre of millionaires fighting with billionairres at a time of national economic distress rubbed in their faces.

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