Ah yes..how could I forget!

First time I went through the Eurotunnel (between England and France) by car I was pulled out at random by the Customs (I don't think the Irish passport helps in this respect!).

Following a thorough search of the boot (trunk for our US colleagues)...

"Is this yours Sir?" (pointing at the Calton mandolin case) "Yes indeed it is officer" "What is it?" "It is a case with a mandolin in it" "What exactly is that?" "It is a type of musical instrument" "May I see it?" "Of course" (I open case) "Mmm.. that's pretty, I like the pearly bits" "Thank you!" "Can you play something on it for me?" "Of course..." (I play something...once more making the Irish mistake!) "Can you play that bit out of "Maggie May"? "Of course...no problem" (I oblige with reasonable results even though I haven't done it in 10 years!) "Ah very good...everythings fine...you can go on your way now Sir...keep up the good work!" "Thank you very much officer and may I compliment you on your efficiency and courtesy!" "Anytime Sir..Bye!"

This is a faithful transcript, recorded for posterity in my mind!

Best regards,

mooman