Hispano-Suiza meeting

An informal gathering of Hispano-Suizas and their owners took place at “The Anglesea,” South Kensington, on November 4th last. Approximately forty invitations were issued but unfortunately only five cars and eight owners were able to appear. The cars, in order of appearance, were; Morin Scott’s 37.2-hp., 61/2-litre chassis, at present undergoing an extensive rebuild which will culminate in the appearance of an enormous two-seater. Dr Paling’s lovely Saoutchik-bodied 37.2-h, 51/2-litre coupe. This machine was imported from Spain in 1948 and hence is on the £10 tax. The engine is apparently not quite standard since some liners supplied by Mr Briand for this model had to be altered in order to fit Dr Barlow’s 87.2-hp, 61/2-litre tourer; this machine is, I understand, on the market for family reasons. Dr Harley’s 37.2-hp, 51/2-litre limousine, in immaculate condition both inside and out, having just returned from an overhaul in Paris. Last, and by no means least, we were honoured with the presence of Mr Fraser’s fabulous 75-hp., 91/2-litre VIZ coupe, which, not surprisingly, arrived on trade plates !

Among the owners present without their motors were Mrs Bailvrard (27-hp Barcelona), who also had some photographs of her previous machine, a 45-hp Boulogne coupe; Mr Cuthell, whose Alfonso was in the course of having the clutch rebuilt, and Mr Moss, who owns the remains of Count Zborowsld’s “Monza” and a 37.2-hp limousine which he purchased recently for £25.

The object of the gathering was to provide the basis for forming a small but select club for owners of these incomparable motors, for which at least two names have been suggested—”Les Hortunes a l’Hispano,” and “Le Club Anglais Hispano-Suiza.” Any owner who did not receive an invitation and who is interested should write to Morin Scott, 16, Kensington Park Gardens, London, W11.