I don't fully understand, but I'll take your word for it.
As an alternative, how about a Respond Privately Button on Posts when looking at them in batch mode? As it is now, when viewing posts in batch mode, the only option is a public reply without opening the individual post and exiting batch mode.
Edit: an upside down and backwards grub.
Troy
Those who shoot from the hip usually end up just shooting themselves.
Plan the grub and grub the plan.
Where is the party tonight? Who is bringng the drinks?