A couple of packets of strings won't go wrong as long as you find out what he is using. Make sure you buy the correct length and width (gauge) of string though.
Well played sir! Enjoy yer new bass when it arrives. I'll keep my e'en peeled for the headline, "Neepheid a sensation at Portsoy Rock Festival" in the P&J.
As you say, 'but 50,000'. That's the entire population of a decent sized town. Someone call the BBC! Aliens are abducting bassists for a mega-gig on Jupiter!