Big Tex	Re: Feral elders
	Damn Sixy, I'm sorry. I kinda like what's been said so far.  I favor a combination of the old Muhammad Ali rope-a-dope defense and out-and-out threats.  They probably know your profession so you can tell them you have an assignment already scheduled out of town, can't get out it yadda yadda.  I would combine that (at the same time, perhaps in the same conversation/letter) with a threat of legal action not against the Society but against them personally (slander for example).  You could stretch things a bit by saying you have already retained counsel who has advised you etc. etc.  I also think Nina is right in that you want to give the appearance of wanting to cooperate However, if push comes to shove and you find yourself in a corner, I would not dignify their kangaroo court by attending.  I'm not telling you something you don't already know, but showing up on their court only gives them power and license to say and do anything they want.  If we can do anything to help, please let us know.   Chris
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