So how did you meet Bill?
I met him through a computer bulletin board.
Oh, really? Which bulletin board?
It was one I used down at the local coffee house called the San Francisco Net. It's been around since around 1991.
I've heard about that, but I've never tried it.
You ought to. One dollar buys you 15 minutes of computer time. A Chat session links you with cappuccino sippers in other cafes and also to home computers on the network.
I have no desire to talk on a network with a bunch of strangers.
That's the whole point. All your inhibitions disappear because you can't see the other person. This network allows you to talk to people whom you normally wouldn't talk to.
I just want a private conversation with one other person.
You can do that. A private session lets two people talk alone. This techno-chat program lets you talk about anything with everybody, without prejudice because you can't see them.
Well, maybe I'll tag along and watch how you talk.
That's fine with me, but we'll have to get there early. Because after 8 pm, there is always a long line.
It's that popular?
It sure is.