I'm not sure what constitutes a violation of the law in this area, but I'm pretty sure eBay rules prohibit bidder collusion. Offering them at cost to reduce bidding competition is probably deemed the same as making an agreement not to bid.

You might want to take this to email rather than a public bb if you want to keep in their good graces, Robert.

P.S.: I know this goes on from time to time. Just prudent to keep it private.

More 'secrets and lies', eh Mel <g>?

DonL