"GerryG" wrote in message
...
First, take a good look with a raking light. If the surface of the finish
looks porous, you would need to refinish that area. If not, see if you can
identify the finish. If it's very old, might even be shellac. Try warming
the
area with a hair dryer (note: warm, not-not hot), and try a cloth ball
with
just a little denatured alcohol, rubbing around the area and a firm
pressure.
Even if it's not shellac, the alcohol may help. Just keep the pad clean.
GerryG



tried the hairdryer no joy. tried the toothpaste and bingo! success.
many thanks to y'all. my life will now be spared, since this is the wife's
old but much loved dressingtable. thanks again. john west