Now, the "strings": the hardware on the front doesn't have any plastic protecting it and there are a couple of small but deep scratches on it. There are also a couple of small marks on the straps. Now, when I called the store they said that my only option is to return it to them for a refund or a new bag. BUT I don't want to wait another week to use my bag! I know that sounds really silly, but I'm at uni, and won't be back at my billing address (which is the only place they would post to) until mid-February. I was hoping they'd offer a discount or something, but no luck. What should I do?! I'm slightly annoyed, I will say, as they promised it was in pristine condition when I bought it and they were a bit snarky on the phone...