Shambles, there is no need to ask Max - just go to the FAQ and you will find:

"The Mudcat Cafe reserves the right to edit, move, combine, rename, or delete all threads and messages posted in the Forum. We will try our best to edit sparingly, but there are times when we may have to take some action to keep the peace, or to protect the interests of our community. Editorial decisions are made by Max, Jeff/Pene Azul, and Joe Offer, or under their direction."

End of story. They can do as they see fit and 99% of us have no problem with that.