Steve:

I'm glad we got the small stuff out of the way. I too want civility and an interesting exchange of ideas. First let me say I know JRF as an acquaintance. I think it important to let you know that I do not now work for JRF.

I've sat in meetings with JRF, TC and JP and trust me its all one way with JRF taking the lead. As a manager JRF is demanding. He works long hours and expects the same from his employees. JRF is stubborn and has a long memory and a caustic wit. By the way he doesn't like to apologize for errors.

As for DCOM and AF, he'd prefer AF but would only ante up for DCOM if he could get away with paying for the deal long term deferred. JRF knows he's weak in Brooklyn but its not a priority. I know that TC has run some scenarios with both AF and Dime and I heard recently with an out of footprint turkey.(An FDIC candidate).

You are absolutely correct in assuming JRF wants a cheap bank that immediately will pay dividends and boost NYB's lagging stock price. Then again JRF been known to take forever to make a decision.

All the best!