Thank you Jeff. I think your post illustrates my feelings well. No doubt the blade is old and does indeed appear like the best late 18th early 19th century steel. Looking at the sword whole as it presents itself today the handle is surely 20th century and there for deserves a little harder scrutiny. I do not mean it is rubbish, if were given to me I would be delighted. I just felt the praise was a little too fulsome.
Tim