In a message dated 96-06-14 02:49:24 EDT, you write:

<< "I was told that I would have to send a
 business card or a letter with letter-head...."  Brett Mohr¶
<mmohr@blue.weeg.uiowa.edu>  >>

Dear Brett,

Sorry your experience was so negative.  I presumptuously forgot to tell
people to set up their own restoration business (even if you are "only"
a hobbyist), with business cards and letterhead stationery.  I did it,
you can too, and it costs so little.

Business cards are handy when I encounter persons (unexpectedly) who
have an instrument they wish to have serviced.  It's so easy to hand
them a card from my billfold, and it conveys an important message:  you
are serious enough about your work to have spent $25 for 500 business
cards!

Depending on your capability, you may be able to whip up your own with
your computer, printer, and Business Card stock (works in photocopiers,
laser & inkjet printers) available at the local office supply store.

Is this dishonest?  (Is it dishonest to purchase a musical box from a
seller, without telling them how truly valuable it is before you settle
on a price?) It depends on whether you are lying, and your motivation.
You can always contact a local piano technician to order the stuff for
you.  And what could be easier?

Best regards, Robert Linnstaedt¶
The Organ Shoppe -- Pump Organ Restoration, Repair & Sales¶
(Yes, it is legit.)