Den,

I wish to apologize for my 'idiot' remark. That was uncalled for. The situation is idiotic, not the people. You are correct that your view growing up in NI is much more 'real' than is my view from books and movies. You have been a gentleman about all this, and I hope you'll accept my attempt at amends. I can be a real ass when I set my mind to it, and it seems this is one of those times. From the messages we've exchanged, it's easy to see that I'm the idiot in this equation. Thank you for your kindness and understanding.

Bruce Murdoch