No question that the initial bids are designed to draw fire to see the opponents artillery strength. So far we have seen someone throw a stick followed by someone throwing a stone. What will we think when they start loading scuds. We know that some of the world heavies were up visiting NOT in 07 and actually made "suggestions" that R.N. turned away. With the interest expressed then I would find it difficult to rationalize allowing little Cliffy to take over something that could throw the old guard Cr market on it's ass. There are those in that group that could buy Cliffs never mind compete against them on a bid. The exercise for all concerned is getting the ROF at the cheapest price and screwing the little guys in the process. The cat really is out of the bag though and the media will add momentum. Some think that Wes tipped his hand early to catch Cliffs unready. Could be some merit in this thought if they felt that Cliffs would gain too much ground as the ROF was further explored. Presently, a serious major may not even have to come to the light if they simply supply the resources necessary to win FWR and this would keep the sp's from overinflating. It would be a piece of cake to set NOT's sp on fire with a simple purchasing campaign. How many shares do you think it would take to go from 2.15 to $4 on good news at the right moment? Chump change. If I see NOT going to that level I'll be sending my FWR shares over to them based on current information. We'll have to make the right decision based on the most current info. at the appropriate time.