Hello, dear reader.  I attempted to buy a desktop from HP.  Things did not go well.  Below is a copy of the email I sent through HP's website that goes to CEO Meg Whitman.  As if anyone believes Meg will ever read it.

Dear Ms. Whitman,

I am writing in regard to the abominable service I received while trying to place order no. H120964216.  Having placed the online order on January 2nd, I received an email that evening declining the purchase unless I called a service number.  Since it was after your customer service hours, I called my credit card bank.  They told me that they had approved the charge.  The next morning I received an email stating my order was being processed.  My faulty assumption was that my order was, in reality, being processed. 

I initially called customer service on January 12th, asking for an update.  I was informed that my order was still declined.  The service rep attempted to call my credit card company to verify – what, that I was me?  The card company refused to do a third-party verification due to privacy issues, as they should.  The rep next tried to use a service to verify – I don’t know; he didn't say.  I’m guessing my shipping address.  As it happens, I moved in December and public records don’t update that quickly.  He said a manager would call me the next day.  A manager did not call.  I called the evening of the 13th, and was told that there was no request for a manager to call.  I was further told that -- whoever decides these things -- might want me to use a different credit card, one whose bank would give third-party verification.  Before hanging up, your rep told me that I would receive an email regarding this decision within 24 hours. 

Today is the 17th, and no email has arrived.  I called for a third time and was told that it was determined that I need to use a different card or use Paypal.  I do not have or use another credit card.  I am not setting up a Paypal account for your benefit.  I understand your need to avoid fraudulent purchases.  However, my bank approved the purchase, yet you declined to accept their decision.  This, on top of the complete lack of follow-through promised by your customer service reps leaves me little choice.  I have cancelled my order.  You have lost a sale.  You have lost a customer.

Sincerely,