Dear John,

You make some interesting points, and I'll pick up on just two of them.

First, Paterson's Black Flag. Yes, it's excellent in places, but in others its not quite so good. Also, he seems to have had some proof reading difficulties (as we all do!).

I suspect that the problem is revealed in his Notes and Bibliography. As you will see, they are a bit short on prime sources.

For instance, he does not even mention the several "Deadlight" files in the UK National Archives at Kew.

Second, re Regenbogen, I wish you luck in producing a definitive list.

The problem is compounded by the fact that many were scuttled before the order was given, and that many were scuttled after the order was cancelled. Also, there is quite a date spread.

Personally, I have avoided this bit of U-Boat history - concentrating instead on those that surrendered.

Also, as you will have noted, the totals vary with each different author.

So, if I was to attempt such a project, I think that I would probably start with Axel Niestle's list, and use that as the baseline for comparison with what everyone else says. Then, after lots of analysis (and head scratching) it might be possible to arrive at a nearly right answer - whatever "right" might mean in this instance.

I wish you luck.

Yours aye

Derek