Robo - I'll just add that I have no use for PMs or any other forms of clandestine communications 'behind the scenes'.
I prefer straight open talk in the threads for all to see.
I have never PMd anyone, apart from polite responses to others who PMd me out of the blue.
In approx 15 years my total PM count is 35...

You, bob, and others of your disposition seem to be imagining greater plotting and scheming than actually exists in reality.
I belong to no groups,
I am not an actor for anyone here apart from my own personal independent bond with mudcat community.

Too many old folks here, are being very paranoid and silly...

I can for amusement view such behaviour as a microcosm analogy of the kind of top level arsholery that runs this planet...!!!