  The abstract quantum algebra of observables for 2+1 gravity is analysed in
the limit of small cosmological constant. The algebra splits into two sets with
an explicit phase space representation;~one set consists of $6g-6$ {\it
commuting} elements which form a basis for an algebraic manifold defined by the
trace and rank identities;~the other set consists of $6g-6$ tangent vectors to
this manifold. The action of the quantum mapping class group leaves the algebra
and algebraic manifold invariant. The previously presented representation for
$g=2$ is analysed in this limit and reduced to a very simple form. The
symplectic form for $g=2$ is computed.
