Another problem with Michael

Fri.14.12.07. Over the past few days the instruments along with the gauges have been partially assembled in the dash. Everything appears to fit correctly, after a few minor alterations, but the main concern is the hole that has been drilled to take the over drive switch. The depth of the dash together with the rear section of the switch has proved difficult to reconcile. A rectangular piece could be cut from the rear to accommodate the component but this would create a weakness in the timber. A larger hole could be cut to take an additional gauge, perhaps ‘vacuum’, or a badge could simply conceal the hole.

Using a piano hinge the boot lid has been temporarily fastened to the boot lining. The method of closure and the final finish still need to be explored. The aluminium scuttle panel in addition to the floor sections need to be cleaned then polished which can be achieved by using a cutting compound.

After several visits to Michael, to find his gates locked, seemingly not at home, I have been unable to deliver the internal panels and tunnels to be trimmed. I just hope that he has not ‘gone bust’ but moreover, fucked off with the seats. Having paid him for the pair, but not collected them I have broken the golden rule of ‘if you have paid for goods or services then take it with you, otherwise you are likely to be stiffed’. 

Sun.16.12.07. The ‘Doc’ entered the vault in triumphant mood on Friday night. The ‘Loss Adjuster’, the person solely responsible for the validity and value of the insurance claim, had visited the Oak during the morning to inspect all the damage for himself. The landlord had evidently presented his claim profitably; it appears that he will be entitled to everything he has requested. The cellar will be totally refurbished, the ground floor carpets replaced completely, the drains will be repaired where necessary and a very favourable settlement for ‘loss of earnings’ established. Congratulations flowed generously from all his loyal customers, comments gushing from the assembled crowd. “Good on you” from Lowtie, “Well done, mate” from Chris, “I’m glad it’s worked out for you” from the Preacher; there was even a painted on smile from Salty. It took only cutting observation from Jimmy the Axe which really summed up the perilous nature of any negotiation with the ‘Doc’. “How come you didn’t fuck it up? decline any financial assistance, refuse any help what’s so ever, throw him out of the pub, shoot yourself in the foot, shit in your own nest? like you normally do”. “Simple, June was at the meeting”. The ‘Doc’ is now looking forward to sitting on his arse for the next three weeks, earning possibly more money than he did last year for not even lifting a finger. There will be no pissheads to evict on ‘mad Friday’, no crazed ‘office do’s’, no moronic staff to pay, no extra stock that may or may not be consumed, no Christmas dinner to prepare for his extended family and, more significantly, he will be able to enjoy a festive holiday for the first time in 25years.

Cockney Mick has broken his leg down in Landan on a job. Compowned fracture that ‘ee just popped back in. ‘ee brok ‘is uffa too but was able to push the bones back in an’ tape ‘em up wive gaffa tape. Paramedics fought ‘ee was brilliant to self medicate.