[hotreds]

As someone who does a TON of business with the USPS, let me say that happily this does not happen often. That being said, there is nothing the USPS can or will do for you except commiserate. Brad is correct, insuring does little if the package is lost or damaged unless you have a picture of the item with a price next to it- like from a catalog. Then, maybe you'd get some redress. But, you've heard the expression: "slower than molasses in wintertime?"

Peter is correct: the BOTL here who sent you this will likely make good on it- heck, I would if I had these stix!

Tough luck, and extremely annoying, I know! I once got a book that appeared to have been left to soak in diesel oil. Yummy!

I'm sure you'll get your MAW one way or t'other, brother!