Frank: Many thanks! No, nothing is too weird for me! I'm in the process of having a frock for the "Violet Guards" (6th LA Infantry) made up, with indigo trim! I'm topping it off with a white leather period "fireman's parade hat," as most of the men in this New Orleans company were from the Irion Ferry Fire Company No. 12. Can't wait to spring this ensemble on my more conservative friends in the rifle squad at the next Confederate memorial service. (They may shoot me!) -- Jim H.