Historical clue formulations

• "Be that as it may …" — 2024-04-05
• Words said before qualifying? — 2015-03-21
• Start of an agreement that's not really an agreement — 2013-01-13
• Excuse maker's lead-in — 2012-09-13
• "I'll grant you that. However ..." — 2010-09-30
• Conditional agreement starter — 2006-06-07
• "Agreed. However ..." — 2002-10-08