Hostile Territory

Sources tell NYT one of Cain's accusers complained workplace "turned hostile" after allegations. Her lawyer and Nat. Restaurant Assoc. counsel then agreed $35,000 severance deal - worth year's salary.

NYT: "The severance agreement was unusual not only for its size, three people familiar with it said, but also for its confidentiality provision."

Earlier, Politico reports "urgent discussions" held within hours of allegations at "top levels" of Assoc. Cain camp refuses comment on latest, again touts fundraising numbers in wake of scandal: over $1.2 million donations in last three days.

AND: Assoc. issues statement Thurs. promising to decide by Fri. if Cain accuser can legally go public.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Cain to stay in the background, won't go "On the Record" Friday.