When the handle broke on my well-traveled satchel-style briefcase, I thought that was the end of this old favorite, which I've lugged half way around the world. After stops at two repair shops, I was referred to Ben's Luggage & Repair Center. Mason Massih, the proprietor, took a look at the handle-less briefcase and said, "$35." I swallowed hard, but then realized that a new pigskin satchel -- if I could find it -- would cost over $100. I nodded my head, and Mason pulled over a bucket of handles and picked one out. It was a close match for the broken one. In a few minutes, the briefcase had a new handle, and Mason also put some rivets in key places so I could carry a load of books without the bottom of the case dropping out. After about 15 minutes, my briefcase was good for another 100,000 miles. Thanks, Mason, it was worth every dollar.
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