: I am sorry if this becomes a double post. I pressed a key and everything
: went!
: I gave it a coat of varnish this AM and now after 8 hours in the sun at 28C
: it is giving me a great deal of hope that i will be able to
: "get-away-with-it" after a few more coats an proper drying time.

That's good news!

: I am sorry to admit to "cowardice" re the flame treatment; I can
: see that it could well work b...u...t...!!!!

I don't blame you, as there is a significant risk to it.

: Do I interpret a "scraper" as a flat piece of steel sharpened at 90
: degrees and burred, like I have used in lute building in the past?

Yes, or you can get one of the many varieties with a handle. My personal preference is for Bahco carbide scrapers. I have one with a ~2" wide blade that's straight on one side and slightly curved on the other. The curved side is ideal for removing runs, as it will do so without the corners scratching the skin.

: Thank you all for your advice, I am feeling confident that it will come
: pretty well right. As you can tell i was devastated when it all occurred
: but you guys have raised my spirits.

Glad to help.