well; upshot. she decided it would cost too much to authenticate it, and so she's taking it as a "loss". very strange. i offered to take it back (as per your suggestion) since she was so unhappy, and i didn't want an unhappy customer, but she said she had already trashed it since two of the seams had come undone. now i just don't believe that is true -- this was a bag in such good condition, that no way the seams would 'come undone'. so i just don't get it.
but i appreciate your help and advice!!!