Panther Server 10.3.9 DNS quits just after starting up

OSXS 10.3.9 on an Xserve. When starting (attempting to start) DNS services to test a mail problem, the DNS server will start up, then quit without notification. The dot adjacent to the DNS in the Server Admin services column turns green (stop server button appears above) for about 20 seconds, then goes back to clear. Nothing (and I mean NOTHING) is written to the named log in debug mode. Any idea on what's hosed or what am I overlooking? Thanks!