I agree with punch*drunk in that buyers just want their product etc.

We've probably all made purchases from online vendors without feedback systems and probably never gave it a thought.  I buy from EzyDVD a lot - a reaaaal lot.  I do not care one iota how many bad customers they've had.  I order, they communicate where needed and I get my movie.  Simple.

I'm also glad they don't get a computer to send me an auto response (and feedback) when I make a purchase.  Do you think the buyer cares about that too?  It's a bit insulting really.

"Hi human.  I've got a pre defined message for you that shows the seller is pretending to be interested in you as a buyer, much like the counter personnel at McDonalds really cares about your order".

And now I want to buy from some of you just so I can give 1 star for treating me like an object with an automated message.  I mean, when you call XYZ and hear "Thank you for calling XYZ.  Your call is important to us and blah blah blah", does that make you feel like you're valued?

Anyway, go for it Helen.  I personally would think a brief note, or email outlining the situation demonstrates some genuine interest in the relationship.

It's just a pity eBay sides with the bad buyer rather than the profit end of the transaction.  How stupid are they?