> 
> Wow, everything's fine.  That's good at least as far as the configuration
> goes, but bad because I don't have a clue here.
> 
> I'm willing to try the serial break out box.  How do I get one?

Probably the best thing to do is make friends in either the Networking
or some Computer Support group, and borrow one. You can buy them,
but I think they are ~$50 or $100. Well worth it if you play with modem
cables often, but not if you have just one problem.

Take care,

Bill