I think you are right Dave (about the read-time checks etc), but never-the-less, to send a 'thank-you' message to another writer, especially if it is backed up with a read-for-read comment is a useful exercise in itself. It encourages good writers to 'keep it up'.

Thank you for liking what I wrote in this article, Dave.

All the best to you and your writing... and, 'keep it up'!

Fred