I shall write to Esther Rantzen!

In contrast to the purveyors of my still-absent lampshades (who have not yet replied to my email), the Advocates for Self-Government seem to have a slightly keener sense of customer service. I had a similar problem with some books I ordered from them - no-show, couldn't get an answer to my emails - so I emailed their President about it. I've got this reply:

Hi Colin, first I want to thank you for your patience in this matter. I am very sorry for the problems with this order. I had emailed you back in April, but I guess you didn't receive it (that happens sometimes). So, what we decided to do was to send your order free of charge. It is going out today (Thursday) via Global Priority Mail. Unfortunately, one of the books you ordered is not currently in print. It was The Concise Guide to Economics by Jim Cox, it will be reprinted in the near future. We shipped everything else though.

Again, I'm sorry for all of the mix-up. I hope you enjoy your books and have a great week!

Dagny Fritz
Office Manager

That's more like it! Now I just have to worry about parcel post...

Dagny??? :-)