I made it!!!! Finally got on the chat. I clicked on the link in one of the early messages and didn't get an error message. What a surprise.

I didn't use that client though. I took the information that www.mudcat.org is the host and 6667 is the port to use and then connected and joined the channel using mIRC.

So, it looks like you can connect both ways. jets was already online and showed as the operator of the channel (name showed as @jets). We chatted a bit then I had to leave to put the dinner on. Just came back and I'm there alone but at least I know I'm in the right place.

Hope this information is useful/encouraging to others who want to try this technology.