"Then over the next week there should be a significant increase in volume in SNDH!!"
That's the problem -- for the shorts. I don't think there are enough SNDH shares to go around. I think the message in SNDH's b/a spread is that the market makers don't have any inventory -- I may be wrong, but I don't think are are any (or many) shares left in the float.
The shorts HAVE to cover HQNT or the consequences could be devestating to them. Remember, they are legally obligated to pay the dividend. If they don't, their brokers are legally obligated to buy SNDH in the open market on their behalf. The brokers will pay whatever they have to pay (and charge their short clients accordingly). So, maybe the shorts will also be pressured by their brokers to cover before the 25th.
This sure is getting interesting.