I used to import software from the USA. This was a fairly major supplier, and we agreed that there was no value in the software as such, so the bill was made out for support, 1 year at x, and the media for the software, ie. 5 diskettes at 2.40$ each for example. This kept records straight, and I did not incur what was, at the time, a huge hit. Now anything made in the US has zero duty coming or going from Canada, Free Trade. Includes Mexico also. But if it is Japanese or European there might be. Canada and the UK normally would have free trade, that baffles me somewhat. I thought Commonwealth trading partners got a free ride. That should be looked into. However, most clearing houses know the rules.

My mother's ancestor, as far back as we go on Islay Scotland was a tax collector. Excise man. Came to Canada with recipes for stuff to ward off the chill and such. Good medicine. Some called it scotch. My Grandfather called it a tonic. Three at night and one at lunch. Even the presbyterian minister had his own made up. A bit of sugar or something put in it later, 1.5 oz a dose. 2 doses every 3 hours if you were down with a cold. Apparantly my aunt was sick in bed with the doctor on Sunday and 9 months later they had a baby. Confusing as I'll get out. That kid was a girl and became a doctor and married one. They are so poor to hear them tell it. Can't find a decent ski resort in Canada, and are forced to travel to Austria. Such a shame. Long way to go to break a limb.

I think a trip to N Ireland is in order. I 'd like to find a weekend without rain perhaps.

Well, I'm on my bike so to speak, perhaps a stout before bed would be the ticket. Winter beer, black as Toby's..never mind.

John Conley
Musica est vita