Alan, Re: The Russ on ebay. Really easy make to identify the frame number is always under the bottom bracket shell plus it is stamped on the rear of the fork crown near the drilling. Normally have lettered prefix but I have seen Russ frame numbers without letters. Ernie's son Edward is still alive and as far as I know has all the building records. The frame is identical in every way to my 1937 Russ Club with the exception of the fork crown which is very ornate for those plain frame lugs. Could be like the seller says 40's as that crown is more associated with late 40's styling. There great bikes from a wonderful maker and well worth having, good luck. One bike I would never part with is my Russ.
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/
Thats all for now. Keep those wheels spinning, in your memories if not still on the road. Be lucky Mick Butler Huntingdon UK.