Would it be possible to use VC7.1 with the MC++ in 
Mixed mode to create a plugin interface for .NET 
assemblies?
It is unquestionably far easier to create applications 
using .NET, but the trick is to then interface it with the 
hooking needed for interop.  
I'm wondering if a wrapper could be created that would 
enable the existing plugin initialization routines to 
call .NET plugins.  
Perhaps a .NET interface can be defined that could then 
be used by the existing plugin initialization routines.
If neither of you are familiar with using VC++ in mixed 
mode with .NET (MC++), I could try and help you out by 
trying to make it work with the latest source and then 
submitting patches.
Just let me know!
Thanks,
--Oren