Upon reflection you really have to wonder just how dumb Microsoft is willing to make itself look.  I mean this is getting a bit ridiculous.  Microsoft threatens Apple with bankruptcy but then claims they picked IE because it was better technology (or something).  Microsoft offers to drip MSN if AOL will just go with its browser instead of Netscape but then claims they picked IE because it was better?  Microsoft attempts to get Netscape to stay out of the Windows market for its browser, then claims it was set up or bated?  Microsoft threatens Intel with an OS incompatible with their new chip so that Intel will not write any code, but then suggests they were helping Intel out by avoiding the distribution of inferior code (or something like that)?

It is amazing, but an observation needs to be made.  Not a single lawyer working for Microsoft, nor a single employee of Microsoft could get a job (any job) in this industry if during their employment interview they could only discuss what they have offered to date.

The fellow from AOL clearly indicates that he understands power, influence and deal making.  The fellow from Netscape does likewise.  The fellow from Apple clearing demonstrates that he knows which industry he is working in.  And, even the guy from Intel seems to understand quite a bit about the software industry.  Amazing.  These witnesses know which industry they work in and even express true knowledge and understanding about related industries as well.

In contrast, no Microsoft person could get a job if their life depended on it.  And, that includes Bill Gates.   Individuals during employment interviews must demonstrate more knowledge of the industry that has been admitted so far in this trial.

Playing dumb might work if you are defending yourself from a charge of embezzlement.  But, that will not work if you are defending a charge of antitrust violations.

Certainly not if you have amassed a 50 billion dollar fortune by precluding competitors from selling their products.  Oh no.  Dumb and forgetful people do not accomplish that at all.

Lewis A. Mettler, Esq.