When I was 16 years old, my Dad, who was, as I have said, English, took me to the Old Country to meet his family and to see the sights. It was a life changing experience for me in so many ways, and many more stories could be told.  And no doubt shall. But for this tale I must remark that I liked really cool cars and I got an eyeful there. I especially had a penchant for hand built cars but not because of their status, but rather their beauty. They are an expression of art in their own right. One type of car caught my fancy. They were not common, even there. These were the Jaguar Mark X (Mark 10). Even by today's standards, they were breathtaking. In England they had a similar structure and finish to the Rolls Royce. I had never seen one in Dayton, Ohio and secretly wished that I could own one someday.

We returned home. Shortly after my 19th birthday, I was looking through the newspaper and to my amazement came across one listed for sale. You guessed it. I spent most of my savings to buy it. It was black lacquer with navy blue leather interior, burl walnut everywhere, a bar in the back with decanters and an AM/FM/SW radio. It had been lavishly maintained in perfect condition. It was a real joy which I had for over six years. When the odometer hit about 220,000 miles, I had to have some work done to it.  I preferred to do my own work on it. When the master brake cylinder started to show signs of wear, I contacted the nearest dealer, 50 miles away to order one from England for $200.00. I reluctantly sent a check and waited.

About two weeks later, a small package arrived at my home in Dayton, Ohio from England. Inside was an impressive carton  that said "Genuine Jaguar Part". Inside was another box marked "General Motors Delco Products, Dayton, Ohio" I was stunned. I took the Delco part number and called the local parts store. I had already installed the part on the car but I was curious. When the clerk came back on the line he said it was the same as was used on the Chevy Nova...price? ...$15.00.

What has cost you too much, too late?