David; Sellers want the maximum exposure to the items they are offering for sale .... which is weekends. If the winning bidder does not have the patience to wait until the seller returns from his trips .... then I don't know what to tell you other then email you with an apology, explaining why I could not respond earlier. I'm sure, knowing who the ebay seller is in your situation, that you will hear from Bill shortly, if you have not already.