New Colt owner

Hi, I am brand new to this forum. I recently purchased a Colt DS snubbie that my wife fell in love with. I wrongly assumed that it was a 38 long Colt but found today that it is not. After closely reading the barrel, with my glasses on, I find that it calls for a 38 Colt NP.Some google research suggests that the 38 Colt NP is a close clone of the 38 S&W. Other information, such as Starline Brass specifically says that is not so. I already own one box of 38 long Colt with more on the way. I need to know just what my wife should have for this little beauty.The firearm is labeled as Detective Special and has a 1-7/8" barrel. I was told that the item was specially built by an employee of Colts Manufacturing some years ago. It appears to have had very little use. I hope the reason is not that 38 Colt NP hasn't been made since 1912. There is no visible serial # on the frame but there is a number on the frame under the crane, (804XX), and it appears to be hand stamped.I do reloading of a few handgun cartridges and hope to be able to reload whatever fits this.My questions then are;1. Is a 38 Colt short the same as a 38 Colt NP?2. Is the 38 S&W the same as either the 38 S&W or the 38 Colt NP?3. Are there sources for factory ammo?4. Any thoughts on when this might have been made?5. Did I really make a mistake in buying this for my wife?Thanks for any help,SailorBill in Connecticut