There are some disparate and constructive general considerations on behalf of science communications far transcending any particular issues evoked by the nowwithdrawn article reported in the letters department in this issue of the Archives. The reporting of science is a complex but gratifying activity, and the intent of any "rules" governing it should be shared. Thus, our "Instructions for Authors" contains a very brief essay entitled "Obligations for Full Disclosure." It fundamentally addresses a collegial rather than defensive intent animating the information exchanges that are central to scientific activities. Such exchanges are both formal (published reports) and informal. Informal inquiries between authors and the Editor are a normal part of the full exchanges that we encourage in our instructions and, in fact, do receive and initiate. The aim in all of our discourse, formal and informal, is positive. It is to clarify the basis for differences and to stimulate evidentiary