If a clique is just an 'exclusive set of associates' then that's ok. I find people on Mudcat very helpful and many questions get answers and often people offer help and advice beyond the call of duty and it can be good fun. A clique is not such a nice word as exclusivity has positive (high standards) and negative (unfriendliness) connotations but most mudcatters are friendly. The odd controversy now and again is usually humurous and entertaining and maybe even be thought provoking. Best wishes Albert Ross the albatross.