1. so we could have a picnic
2. but he was able to finish his speech
3. could understand the language
4. I was able to catch the 9.55 a.m. train
5. he was able to solve
6. we could find
7. he was able to work
8. he was able to ski
9. I was able to see
10. I couldn't hear
11. we were able to continue
12. fortunately I could wake my sister