When I started to read this thread I thought how kind it was of Pastille to say such nice things about me. I then read on to find out what vile abuse I had poured on whoever, and found that I had said "Poor sad little person, full of spite and venom, clothed in a cloak of righteousness". To me, that had seemed to fit the bill.
Then I read that I had made contradictory statements, which I had not explained or justified. I said at one point that completing the puzzle meant more than winning it, and to me that was true. I also said that it would be great if someone from the forum could win it, as so much effort had been made. Now those statements don't seem particularly contradictory to me - perhaps I worded my sentiments wrongly.
I am not trying to justify myself - I am disgusted with the whole business.
I have always tried to give help on this forum, and have rarely asked for help myself. I have enjoyed most of the time that I have contributed to it, and I am sorry that this is the last.
Audrey Thomas