Scott:

1. I do not suggest a merger in some form of the OPTI/Nexen/Connacher interests as a certainty. Only as a perceived potential.

2. Reference to previous statements by Nexen as to plans for their oil sands interests, would of course be subject to change with an evolving industry situation and company specific changes.

3. Nexen already a has producing property in Colombia, but no interests elsewhere in S. America. Petrolifera might well offer them an opportunity for larger participation in S. America with Connachers positons in Peru and Colombia.

4. The case for viable synergies in such a merger of interests is I believe still viable.

5. Obviously, something has to be accounting for he un up in Connacher at present. Particularly since there is no impetus being provided by the pric of oil rising significantly.

6. What else could provide the impetus for he recent un up in CLL?

Brian