You scored at $25. A great machine and a bentwood case! It's worth the extra money to round up the knee bar. Sew-classic.com has foot controllers and plugs to fit the 3 prong plug on the end of the machine if you prefer a foot controller instead. I'd keep the knee controller intact even if I went that route though.
I understand completely about buying sewing machines and financial necessities. It would have to be very special and very cheap for me to get any more right now.
Rodney