Thank heavens you have a sense of humour, Starkler. I was thinking about my post last night and began to worry that you might take offence - me being a newcomer and all.
Incidentally; the only reason I asked my question was because 20 to 30 years ago Barlows tended to be frowned upon - presumably because of the quality of the offerings and the size of affordable 'scopes at the time.