Where do you want help shambles?

If it is over an opion given from Max to clarify matters, I think I've reached the point where I would support you. Although I'd still think you pretty spineless for not at least attempting to PM him first.

If on the other hand for example your point is over what I can only read as Mudcat's (ultimately Max's) position over indexing and moving, I would be in an impossible position as if my view over anything counted, I would support the position and openly say I do move, combine. etc. elsewhere...

That said, I'm not convinced any debate opening

"Joe's wish now to 'index', 'consolidate' 'prefix', 'clarify' and generally try to control the postings of others"

Is worthy of thought. A slight rewording even to

"Mudcat's wish now to 'index', 'consolidate' 'prefix', 'clarify' and generally try to control the postings of others"

might (and I'm not sure it would be) worthy of debate for some for gathering of opinion.