On the same day, Pilot´s homepage finally changed itscheerful, "Yes, we´re open" message. "Pilot Networks hasfiled for bankruptcy" was all it said. There were some snippyredesigns of the Pilot website, obviously tacked up by bitterex-employees. The title bar of Pilot.net read: "Pilot NetworkServices is now Imaginary Network Services Inc."

Someone left behind a sarcastic note, which only hinted atwhat had gone on. Anyone who happened by and clicked on"What´s new" would see the note: "Here is the latest aboutPilot: We´re done! Pilot is no more. This company is anex-secure ISP. If it weren´t for being nailed to the perch,it would fall over. Alameda, CA, May 9, 2001."

You can almost hear creaky saloon doors rattling in the windand tumbleweed staggering through the dust.