In the fall, I built a lovely white metal kit for a Hansom Cab – but it was missing a couple of an important details: lamps. The manufacturer offers these offered separately, as the cab kit can be used without them as a goods wagon load.
That said, they were only a couple of quid and available from the same source from which I secured the Hansom Cab. So I ordered a pair – plus a few other details, to make the package worth the postage. But I was surprised when, the next day, my money was refunded – with no explanation.
I assumed the issue was shipping, since the vendor is in the UK and I’m in Canada. I was fully prepared to pay for international shipping. But still, one quarter of the way through the 21st Century, some venders are uncomfortable with sending a small packet overseas – even those that have online shopping carts. Go figure. (They probably complain the hobby is dying, too.)
Anyway…
I still needed those lamps.
I asked my friend Simon Dunkley in the UK if he would order them and forward them to me if the sale went through. As expected, it did – the vendor had no trouble selling domestically – and in due course they arrived on the Canadian Prairies.
Earlier this month, I painted up the castings, added some Kristal Klear to form lenses, and with photos to guide me I stuck them in place on either side of the cab body. The Hansom now looks complete.
Thank you Simon – very much appreciated. So much so, I’ve decided this sharp-looking entrepreneur is named after you.
Now who needs a ride to town?
The Model Railway Show 