Just an FYI,
2.2.3 compiled fine on my machine, but 2.2.4 configuration complained that SDL_net.h failed the tests because the include path to /usr/include/SDL was not specified in the gcc compile test. I had to fix this issue by setting the include path in the CFLAGS environment variable. Probably something messed up during autoconf. Nevertheless, I thought I would post this for other slackers in case they run into that issue.
On another note, good job working on this old title. It brings back fond memories.