The (potentially) good news is that we have received and applied a patch
from Compaq (nee "Digital Equipment") which they *hope* will fix our
problems. The patch requires a reboot to take effect and, lucky us,
that's just what we have to do right now. Keep your fingers crossed.
P.S. We hope to have the system back up by shortly after 3 PM (today).
Thanks for your continuing patience.