I managed to download a trial version of Retrospect Express (the backup software for my external hard drive), and was able to restore a great deal of the stuff I was so afraid of losing.
There’s still some pain in losing things I’ve done recently, but the things that were irreplaceable are now restored. For several months, there will be a few "do-overs," but it’s not so bad. My star shrugged off yesterday’s insult and we’re still breathing.
Installed the backup software on HWTFM’s laptop, and now am restoring all of his data. He called to see if he can bring anything on the way home, so I told him that wine, roses, or chocolate might be appropriate.
On the other hand, skip the chocolate.