All the chicken littles are missing the big picture. 

Why would PTSC settle just before trial?  After years of litigation and a favorable Markman ruling the answer is not because they were concerned about the outcome, so the only reason is because the numbers were big enough to make it worth their while.  Of course Patriot would rather have a judicial determination but if the settlement numbers were big enough then take it.  Do you really think someone else is going to challenge them after beating the J3 and a favorable Markman? 

Why would Patriot agree to a confidential settlement?  Again because the settlement numbers are big enough and I guarantee the defendants insisted upon it.  The remaining defendants have been scrambling since the Markman.  The amount of money at stake is enough to send the defendants stock down significantly so they offered to give up the motherload to settle this matter but insisted on confidentiality to buy them time to do damage control with their investors.  JT's letter made it clear that Patriot investors should be patient until the financial report comes out in April. 

You would be crazy to jump ship now.  The April financials are going to be huge.  With all that money Patriot will acquire another company on the Nasdq, continue to go after infringers and the stock will see $10.00 a share by the end of '08.