Elder George Bush Hospitalized but Stable

Former president, now 88, had complications from bronchitis

Former President George Bush is being treated at a hospital in Houston for complications related to bronchitis, but a spokesman said Thursday that his condition was stable and that he was expected to be released within 72 hours.

Mr. Bush, 88, was admitted to the Methodist Hospital on Friday. It was his second hospitalization there this month, the spokesman, Jim McGrath, said.

"At age 88, bronchitis can be very serious, but in this case it was never life-threatening," Mr. McGrath said. "If you asked him how he's doing, he would tell you he's getting out this afternoon, because he feels that good. But he does have a lingering cough, so the doctors are going to wait until he's better to their satisfaction before they discharge him."