But I think a "send /msg to author" link on nodes would be a nice convenience.

I strongly agree. Especially with the "link to the node pre-loaded" feature.

I've found that I reply directly to the author less these days because doing so is a pain. I'd usually prefer to point out a small bug or typo via a /msg rather than by replying, but it is much quicker and less error prone to just reply.

-sauoq
"My two cents aren't worth a dime.";