The spot rupee, which had slipped to 43.76 per dollar in intra-day deals, closed on a steady note at 43.71 per dollar.Selling pressure in long-term bonds saw prices decline in the government securities market today. While long-term papers fell by over Re 1, short and medium-term gilts witnessed a decline of 20 paise.The 7.38% 2,015 bond closed at an yield of 6.75% as against the Tuesday closing of 6.72%.