On the one hand, limiting the number of testers does indeed make sense.
However, I know that not everyone is as lucky as I am, in having job/education commitments that make it possible to check E-mail and forums frequently. sinse i am doing a Phd, all my studdying is done here, in my room, in my own time, and if I want to check forums during a coffee break, there's nothing to stop me.
However, I know that most people aren't that lucky.
So, perhaps for next time Archer and Sk8 might considder posting a warning notice a day or two before the request topic is actually posted, so that anyone who's interested can make sure their able to reply to the topic. Something like:
"Dragonslayer games will be posting a topic to accept beta tester applications at 12.00 Gmt, Saturday november 18th, anyone wishing for a position on the testing team please reply to the topic at that time"
Of course, this system might also have it's drawbacks, but hopefully wouldn't leave people thinking they'd been treated unfairly. This is also of course, only a suggestion.
With our dreaming and singing, Ceaseless and sorrowless we! The glory about us clinging Of the glorious futures we see,
Our souls with high music ringing; O men! It must ever be
That we dwell in our dreaming and singing, A little apart from ye. (Arthur O'Shaughnessy 1873.)