Hi BC

Please do join the "guessing" party. You summarize exactly my feelings about the "possibility" that NOT all along had intentions to force Cliffs hand, and then would reevaluate their position. FWR shareholders are fighting like mad to reject Cliffs offer, and who knows, they may be successful.

It's a long shot, but if that should happen, a new more generous offer from NOT might now be palatable to the FWR shareholders, especially if they realize that by accepting an offer from NOT, as NOT shareholders, they would continue to benefit from NOT's further explorations in the ROF. And remember, NOT could join forces at any time with a Major stepping in with a 10% position, providing good funds.

We all know that consolidation in the ROF must occur. I just feel that Freewest would benefit more from a merger with NOT than the deal with Cliffs, and NOT would surely benefit greatly as well.

But what do I know? I was called naive.

Just thinking out loud...

Jacki