In an effort to reach a settlement with European regulators, Microsoft's chief executive, Steven A. Ballmer, met with Europe's top antitrust official, Mario Monti, on Tuesday, just over a week before regulators are expected to find that Microsoft abused its dominance in operating software.

Talks broke off early evening Tuesday and are expected to resume either face-to-face or by phone on Wednesday morning, according to people close to the talks.

Mr. Monti's spokeswoman, Amelia Torres, told reporters: "There's been a meeting today. Discussions are ongoing. That's all I'll say."

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