In a sure sign that the end is near, the Lebanese, who control much of the retail and wholesale trade in the country, are leaving. Many may not come back. The Lebanese came in during the 1975-90 Lebanese civil war, when many Lebanese with some money and skills fled the country to find safe haven elsewhere. Parts of West Africa were wide open for skilled traders and thousands of Lebanese families eventually arrived.

The US sent in 35 more troops to shore up the security for the American embassy in Liberias capital Monrovia.

The end of the Taylor government in Liberia could be nasty. Taylor was recently indicted as a war criminal, so his escape options are limited. Moreover, the supporters and opponents of his government are organized along tribal lines, meaning that any change in power will be accompanied by much bloodshed and settling of scores.