When I read about the obstructed apertures on the calliope I was
reminded about the careless polishing of the brass whistles on
the Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen Steamboats.

Dr. Don Elbers and I found that after a yearly lay-up most of the
whistles would not speak correctly, if at all!  The culprit was
leftover residue from "Brasso" brass polish remaining in the annular
orifice at the base of the whistles.  Some thin brass shim stock and
lots of work was needed to remove the literally baked-on material!

Berley A. Firmin II
Bayou LaCombe, Louisiana