The one that got away

The “first” version you mention is in reality the “third” version (tailored to fit this specific query).

Though all Three are fictional the first Two have been previously posted to the Internet.

The SME story is non fiction and the purchaser used to post here.

DeKay

dekay, 
  As I started reading your first sentence regarding the master cases my heart started beating wildly, only to crash severely.

Pair of McIntosh MC1200 for $7,000... They never go under $10k. I tried to bargain...

G'day zavato and company:)
A.  Couple months ago a guy in Canada was selling an mc602... for a couple grand less than it could have been listed for.  We agreed on a transaction.  I would be there in ten days.  Reassured him almost daily.  He sold it out from under me... probably sold his soul for more money... loser.
B.  Agreed on an mc300 purchase with a guy in NY.  A fair price for both parties.  Pretty much average market value.  He took the amp off ebay.  Then someone posted the same amp on ebay with a short auction time.  Two bidders got into a mine is bigger than yours contest and overbid the item by at least $1600.  I'm wondering if the guy I'm locked in with sees this and will he do something stupid.  I decide he seemed like a smart guy and knows better than to queer the deal...  ya'd think.  Several hours later I get an email with a link to the fluke sale (winner did not pay for the item) and a demand to make him a bettet offer.  Being a prideful honorable someone of integrity who is not afraid to speak up I not so respectfully sent a return email telling the jerk to go phuck himself:)