\[\boxed{\mathbf{74}.}\]
\[1)\ (954 + 518) - 654 =\]
\[= (954 - 654) + 518 =\]
\[= 300 + 518 = 818\]
\[2)\ 1236 - (726 + 297) =\]
\[= (1236 - 726) - 297 =\]
\[= 510 - 297 = 213\]