When I send a "QUERY IBM7171" command to my local, backbone, LISTSERV, I get:
 
!-------
! From:         Revised List Processor (1.7b) <[log in to unmask]>
!
! > query ibm7171
! There are several "IBM7171"  lists on the LISTSERV
! network. Please select one from the following list
! and resend your request to the appropriate server.
! IBM7171@IRLEARN   Protocol Converter List
! IBM7171@UIUCVMD   Log files only
!-------
 
Notice that IBM7171 at TCSVM is not mentioned.  Why?
 
Of course, if I send the same QUERY command to LISTSERV@TCSVM,
I get the "correct" answer:
 
!-------
! From:         Revised List Processor (1.7b) <[log in to unmask]>
!
! > QUERY IBM7171
! You are not signed up to list IBM7171.
!-------
 
Explanation, please, and thanks for your help.