To combat spam but avoid an official log-in to access the site, the Republic of Pemberley committee is trying a new policy. In addition to requiring entries in the Your Name: and Subject: fields, you will be asked a simple question about one of Jane Austen’s novels. The questions will require a one-word answer, such as, “In P&P, Darcy's estate is called ____."

The question will appear directly below the text box where you enter your message.

You'll see questions from each of the six major novels that appear on the corresponding novel board; for example, if you are posting at the Emma board, the questions will be about Emma. For the non-novel boards (such as Virtual Views or Life and Times), the questions will be from Pride and Prejudice. At the Austenuations board, they will span all the novels. Only the Help board will be accessible without answering a question.

This change will take place on October 29.

We hope that you understand the need for this new policy and are not discouraged from posting. Over time, the committee will monitor spam volume to measure the success of this new procedure. If you would like to discuss the policy or ask questions, please go to the Help board.

The committee would like to thank our good friend Farah-Naz for donating her time to do the programming necessary for this enhancement.