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If you like French bikes you should be aware of this forum
https://forum.tontonvelo.com/viewforum.php?f=2
One small point from your photo: The back wheel is set right at the back of the fork end - the derailleur would probably change better if the wheel is brought forward since this will bring the sprockets closer to the top jockey wheel.
clubman-
Thank you for the link. Nice to have web translators these days.
Anyway, before others join in: please understand I have taken Clubman's advice! I am almost sorry I asked this question. It is true, it wasn't a considered one, but so it is.
I have written to the seller and told him I won't be buying it. He has another offer now too.
My interest isn't French vs English, but I am just looking for a bike that can take at least 32cm wheels, with some lowish trail in the front and a vintage age. I love oldish things in general - the 60s furniture, the 1972 record player (though digital is wonderful thing too), and so on. So my interest in keeping things as original as possible is sincere. As Skülly knows, I came to this forum regarding a wonderful Bob Jackson offer I had and he was extremely generous with his help! I really appreciated that.
In my readings I began to understand that the master craftspeople of the 40s, 50s, and 60s, probably understood more about geometry and load-bearing than many today. This is a strong statement based purely on subjective opinion. I am no framemaker myself, but I trust writers on the topic. So I imagine (could be wrong) I think that that Bob would have had 'wheel flop' in the front because the forks weren't shaped for any real baggage there. The high trail vs low/ish trail interests me.
So, whether its French or British - I seek one I can afford and keep for the rest of my life. I am no collector.
Hornsweep
Ok, please know I'm taking Clubman's advice. Topic closed.
I am all for originality myself. In fact, it should be said that the seller or someone else most likely resprayed the frame, which did actually disappoint me. I didn't think changing the gears (and keeping the old ones) would be such a serious or permanent intervention, but perhaps I hadn't considered the situation properly. Anyway, I came to get your inputs and I thank you all for that.
And thank you Clubman for taking the time to explain the gearing to me. I have appreciated your expert and very helpful advice in the past on another frame.