I bit the bullet and got roto-rooter prices from several plumbers. I found a local one (if they don't know where your town is, you know they're not local). I have a theory--local folks behave better and give better prices. The farther away from their offices, the higher the cost for various reasons, and the less responsive if there is a problem.

He should be here in a little while, and it will be a relief to have the drain lines cleaned out and not have my washer drain run out over the laundry room floor. After that work I'll see how much of the day is left for other work. Or if I have any money left for anything else. . .

SRS