Hundreds of protesters are holding on to their positions in Hong Kong.  But their numbers have thinned considerably from the thousands who were at their sides through the last week of demonstrations that paralyzed the heart of the government and financial centers.

In fact, demonstrators agreed to take down barriers and allow 3,000 or so government workers to get back to their desks and work stations.  Police still put up a resolute face, even as the threat of imminent confrontation evaporated.

“To restore order, we are determined, and we are confident we have the capability to take any necessary action,” police spokesman Steve Hui said.  “There should not be any unreasonable, unnecessary obstruction by any members of the public.”

The Hong Kong government had given them until today to clear on out, and it appears that most protesters packed it in and went back to work or school.  It’s now the remaining student protesters pushing for talks with the government, instead of the other way around.  That could be part of a broader strategy to regroup and relaunch in another part of town.

“Because people need rest, but they will come out again.  It doesn't mean the movement is diminishing.  Many people still support it,” said student leader Alex Chow.

Protesters want Beijing to loosen its grip on elections, and allow any candidate to run for Hong Kong Chief Executive in 2017.  Beijing stirred up anger with its earlier announcement that it would only allow those candidates vetted by a government panel.