Actually I do smooth my stiltons after hooping with a wet spatula to settle in the loose areas. I love the many molds and colors that develop over the ripening period--so much to look forward to as they die down and create a wonderful crust. As Sailor always suggests, don't let them touch water, but keep humidity high. I also taken them out of their confined containers and let them breathe every few days.
As for the marbles (I believe, at times, I'm losing mine! Actually it is my dining room table with a glass top that has an alcove beneath to fill with whatever I like. I chose marbles.