Commiserations BlueJay - Worse thing is not loosing the 2k but knowing that some b!"£$%ds, who don't need it as much as you, have got it!

On the plus side - it's only money. And you were going to part with it anyway so you are no worse off financialy. Just lacking a PC. Can anyone on the Mudcat help on that score. With whatever you get back can you buy second-hand, build one yourself, get bits donated from friends and collegues etc etc. You could end up with a better machine than you were going to buy as most box-shifters, like the company you were buying from, use the cheapest crapiest components they can find, throw them together without care and couldn't give a toss about the configuration of the bios or motherboard.

Also, don't forget to 'not get mad - get even'. Even if you cannot do anything yourself, don't worry. I'm a great believer in Karma - and someone who has caused this number of people hastle will get their come-uppance, believe me. Take delight in imagining what is going to happen to them, and even more in not having to do it yourself;-)

Difficult advice to take when you are angry, depressed and negative but look for the hidden benefits. They will be there. And it will get better - I promise.

Cheers

Dave the Gnome (who has had some himself)