29. New ways _____ to prevent the river _____.
Russia's withdrawal of its experts from China did not strangle (压垮) the Chinese people; _____ it stirred up their enthusiasm for greater exertions.
Having made his first film earlier this year, he is _____ starting in a new one.
Bill is not a fast runner and he doesn't have a chance of winning the marathon, but he will _____ the race even if he finishes last.
As he had no friends and relatives in the town, the traveler tried to find a _____ somewhere.
The thieves _____ him _____ in the park, took his wallet and escaped.