Getting slightly annoyed I decided to reply and see how far it goes to rip me off.
"Dear XXX,
so good to hear that you are still interested in the item. I fully understand the predicament you are in, away on assignment, so cheque payment is fine for me. How much excess money do you expect to be on the cheque. I am currently in a difficult situation, I have recently filled for personal bankruptcy, so as a result, I am unable to make any payments, as all my money goes to repaying debts. You can still buy the iPad, I just won't be able to send any excess money back to you. I hope this is not a problem for you. If you want, I can invite you out to dinner, once you come back from your assignment. There is a dinner scheduled with my attourney on Thursay, 7th of April. I have already spoken with her and she is willing to cover the dinner cost and file them as business expenses. We have created a cover-up story of you applying for a job as a secretary. My attorney is already being watched by a detective, as her partners suspect her of money-laundering, so you have to convincing in your job interview, or this whole operation will fly up. But if you are as convincing in person, as you are in writing emails, this should run down smoothly.
I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you.
Looking forward to hear from you soon"
I probably got all the legal stuff wrong, but I am wondering whether I get any further replies.
