There you go, thread starter's question answered. Thank you SP.
I still think the account creation process should include a screen, IN BRIGHT RED BOLD CAPITALS that explains you must have a posting history to use PMs. I understand why you wouldn't want to include specific numbers at that point.
Why people come to a forum and immediately want to PM people is another matter. Forums are for public discourse. Yet there is an endless parade of newbies who want to use PMs immediately upon their arrival. A pox on them.