Abstract: A plurality of shared files (10) are accessible by each of a plurality of host processors (30a, 30b, 30c). Each host processor includes a data base access system (36) for accessing a selected record of the shared files. A journal merge key table (38) stores transaction sequence information, particularly a count of the number of transactions performed by each of the processor and the number of times each processor has been down and restarted. Each time the data base access system starts a transaction to access and modify the selected record, the lock manger communicates with the other processors through a communications unit (40). The lock communication blocks the other processors from accessing the same record and communicates more current transaction count information to the other processors. Acknowledgement signals from the other processors return the most current transaction count information therefrom.