[ John Farrell wrote to Brian: ]

> Re your MMD note about a gutted Steinway for auction near
> Manchester -- would you be kind enough to tell me where and
> when this auction is taking place?

Hi John,  The catalog description is as follows :-

Dockree's                        Date     10:09:98 Phone 0161 485 1258

The Redwood Suite                Time     11 am    Buyer Premium 12%
Clemence House                   1st lot  1        Fax   0161 486 1068

Mellor Road, Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire SK8 5AT

Viewing : 9th September 1pm - 7pm.  Morning of sale from 9am - 10.45am.

Please Note:  Sale to be held at Alma Lodge Hotel, Buxton Road,
Stockport, greater Manchester.

Sale & view days only tel:  0161 483 4431.  Fax: 0161 483 1983.

  169  A Steinway & Sons mahogany boudoir grand piano, raised on three
  squared legs with down standing pedals, numbered 201218, 81.5 inches
  overall, signed to keyboard cover 'Steinway Welte', signed to the
  frame 'Steinway & Sons', circa 1925, with incomplete pianola
  conversion, key ivories incomplete, neglected condition E750-1250
  Architectural AND Outdoor Effects

The sale is about 50 miles from my house and I may go to have a look
just out of interest.  By the way, where do you live?

Brian Chesters

 [ After you view the instrument please tell us about the "neglected
 [ condition ... architectural and outdoor effects".  Is this
 [ similar to "distressed" effects?  A British piano advancement,
 [ no doubt!   ;)   This could be fine instrument for you, John,
 [ but it would totally occupy your parlour !  Could someone please
 [ confirm the date from the serial number?  -- Robbie