Anyway, I phoned around the UK and was horrified at the prices being asked by British Palm device resellers, compared to US prices (i.e. $9.99 US vs. £16, about $27US, in the UK). I posted a note asking for suggestions regarding UK retailers and a fellow reader emailed me to say that as a result of winning a second hard cover at a users' group meeting, he had one extra.

As he was in the States, I replied asking how best to pay him (thinking about posting cash) but expressing concern about the cost of currency exchange. To my amazement, he replied by asking simply that I send him some toffee or English biscuits (e.g., cookies).

We exchanged addresses and I gladly sent him a good sized box of Thornton's Traditional English Toffee (a decent, reputable make) and within just a couple of days, my Stetson arrived! I understand that the toffee was well received; we have written regularly since. It turns out he's a fan of "Eastenders", an English soap opera that's occasionally shown on U.S. Cable TV.

My lasting impression of this experience is one of gratitude and surprise at his generosity. Is this an example of the "Special Relationship" between America and Britain, or is it indicative of a special understanding between Piloteers?

I think it's the latter. The Palm-related lists, the newsgroups and many other web sites (i.e. PalmPower) show time and time again how generous and kind- spirited Palm device users are toward each other. Perhaps I'm overreacting over what was basically a simple exchange of gifts, but I feel honoured to be a part of such a friendly club. Keep up the good work, folks!

-- Peter Lee (palee@cwcom.net)

Denise Amrich's note to Peter
Hello there. Thank you for the great story. May we use it in a future editorial?

You know, it's stuff like this that makes it all worthwhile. The quality of the people we meet is so cool.

-- Denise Amrich (denise@palmpower.com)

Peter's response to Denise
Hi Denise. It's an honour to hear from you. I'm an avid reader of PalmPower (as well as a PowerBoard host). Since getting my PalmPilot Pro last December, I've been constantly amazed by the extent of the mutual support available worldwide via the Internet. This saga about the hard cover from the chap in NJ was the crowning glory!

Please feel to repeat my original email and sentiments wherever you wish. I'm fascinated by the help other users are willing to give and, like many others, simply want to spread the word!

-- Peter Lee