Many of Thompson's observers, who outnumberedGraham's by nearly 2 to 1, said they consideredthe recount a waste of time and money.

"It's really silly and intrusive and disruptivethat they have to question the integrity of 800voters," said Thompson backer Joseph C. Beckman."That's exactly what this does."

Thompson echoed Beckman's analysis.

"Halfway through the count, things haven'tchanged." said Thompson. "For the benefit of thetaxpayers, we're hoping they'll call this off andsave the rest of the day."

Thompson said that the recount was probably aprelude to an election challenge from Graham in1990.

To make the time pass more quickly yesterday,Thompson said he had "bought an assortment ofchocolate for the workers--Hershey bars, MilkyWays, Snickers and some assorted mints."

Thompson has already set office hours for thisevening and tomorrow at City Hall