1.   Lotus executives say the price slashing would not have been possible before the IBM acquisition.

2.   Lotus executives say they believe the two products will be more complimentary than competitive.

3.   Lotus executives denied that, saying there were talks only about joint ventures.

4.   Lotus executives insist Microsoft still has some catching up to do.

5.   Lotus executives said the price cuts and the Internet features are intended to make it easier for their customers to tap the global computer network with their Notes product.

6.   Lotus executives had rejected offers from IBM during five months of private talks on a variety of business relationships.

7.   Lotus executives had rejected offers from IBM during five months of private talks on a host of possible business relationships.