Thanks to Nicholas Simons for pointing out what was an unintentional
mistake about the Polyphon standing silently [030919 MMDigest].  This
was, of course, "to the best of my knowledge", although the Mikado
stood in a corner of his hall, and admittedly I had not visited Harold
Smith for several years, the Mikado _had_ in fact languished upstairs
in his snooker/billiards room, at least during the several visits I made
in the 1980s and early 90s.  Harold had a 24.5" Polyphon style 105U
which played quite superbly for the entertainment of his visitors.

But if the Mikado was brought down from it's hiding place and used
after the unfortunate theft of his Polyphon 105U, then I do stand
corrected by Mr. Simons.

In my considered opinion, the Mikado was not in playing order, and
by no stretch of the imagination could it be considered as musically
acceptable.  The instrument sounded dreadful due to worn and numerous
bent star wheels, and several chewed up dampers.  So perhaps this
particular machine, being stood in a dark corner, had been 'overlooked'
by Harold's friends and colleagues in their quest to keep the
instruments playing well.

Of course I respect that Mr. Simons is entitled to his own opinion on
what is, and what is not, musically acceptable.  Furthermore, I invite
him to inspect the Saddington Mikado at his own leisure, and hear the
splendid difference that a mechanical overhaul carried out by 'The
Man, The Legend, Bob Minney' has made.  Furthermore he is welcome to
compare it to the "Musically Mighty Mikado" from the Peter Hoyte
collection that I have the pleasure once more of having in my custody.

But Nicholas, come on, even for someone as deadpan as yourself,
"a slur" regarding one of our late mutual acquaintances, from me --
it's a bit hard!  But I am sorry if I caused offence to your many happy
memories of roaring log fires.  As way of further apology, you are more
than welcome to give this splendid piece a good home, or indeed help me
find it a safe haven.

Whilst on the subject of the Mikado, I have digital images for anyone
who is interested in acquiring a good example of a style 54.  It's for
sale at a reasonable price.

Enjoy your music folks.

Regards,
Mark Singleton