If a guy tells me he doesnt want to work on a Smith, and he is the top Darne mechanic in the new world, you can bet he will get some work from me.
A guy telling you he honestly wants someone else to work on your Purdey, or, Smith, or, Darne, while you know he has great talent on a different make of double, is probably just being honest, and doing you a favor.

Best,
Ted