Hello, everybody.

I've been lurking for quite some time now, and I think this is a splendid place. The people seem so nice, the discussions are lively and interesting, and it's nice to find a writers' community that isn't U.S.-centric like most. Even though I don't exactly need a new excuse to waste my time (and to pay for the privilege), I would really like to join and try to fit in -- and possibly even make some new friends. (Also, I'm extremely curious as to what goes on behind closed doors in the Lounge )

But I have a problem. I haven't got a credit card, and I see very little point in paying about £15 extra for an international cheque of £20. Might it be possible to send cash by post? A bit risky, I know, but I've done it before and the money has never been lost (touching wood).

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P.S. I hope I'm not misunderstood: I didn't mean to imply that WriteWords is a waste of time! On the contrary, I think it's a brilliant resource, and I can well understand why it's not free of charge. But alas, to me it is something of a distraction, as I'm not in the process of trying to get published (yet)...

The Paypal method is the best really. Assuming you're in a country where Paypal will allow you to sign up a Debit card, rather than a credit card (you can certainly do this in the UK), you should do this.

You need to ask David Bruce, the administrator, if cash is acceptable, but you must understand that it would be at your own risk. Send him a WWmail.

Dee

Fredegonde - preferably not, IBs suggestion is good, or you could ask a friend with a card to help out, but if there's really no alternative and you don't mind risking it, and, of course it's UK Pounds Sterling, then we would accept it.

Fredegonde,

You asked, 'What goes on behind the closed doors in the Lounge?'

The room is very large and every wall space is stacked from floor to ceiling with bookshelves. Just inside the door is a table onto which Members must leave their weapons. There are always a few pistols, knives and sabres, sometimes a blunderbuss can be seen, but the most common weapons are sharp pens honed to surgical finesse and in all shapes and sizes.

Lots of long couches are placed in such a way that small groups of back-slappers may congregate without disturbing other Members deep in intellectual complexities. Under one of the windows a busy bar is situated where every drink imaginable is on offer (free, of course).

A few soap boxes are scattered around but the most-used items of furniture are the
comfortable easy chairs that accommodate snoring Members or those who visit silently, rest a while and then leave in the same mute way. It is a fascinating room. Hope to see you there.

Len

Alas, the previously high levels of righteous indignation that used to populate the lounge also seem to be left on the table among the 'weapons of intent' these days. Though I'm probably the one who would miss it.

IB,

It was you, my friend, I had in mind when I thought about the blunderbuss. I do hope you're coming back with all flags (and all words) flying.

Len

Apologies to Fredegonda. I promise to say no more, but you did ask.

IBs been missed in the lounge. I think we could have done with him a few weeks back.

Colin M

Thank you, all. PayPal does sound like a good idea. I've never managed to use my debit card online, but I'll inquire at my bank about it.

Len: The Lounge sounds like paradise to me! Now you've made me even more curious. Sigh.