... right in its auction bidding instructions (copied and pasted exactly):

>> Your bid is a contract - Place a bid only if you're serious about buying the
>> item. If you are the winning bidder, you will enter into a legally binding
>> contract to purchase the item from the seller.

So, if I was incorrect in posting that the bid creates a contract, I guess you can blame eBay.

>> They seemed more concerned with the bidders, WHO HAVE NO RIGHTS in this
>> regard, than they are with the seller, who does have rights.

Well, that pretty much says it all, doesn't it? And explains why some of us might be seen as "rooting" for the buyers!!

>> Every eBay seller has the right to cancel all bids and end an auction early.

Yes, the rules say that. Doesn't mean some of us can't think the rules suck in that regard. Which they do.

Sellers are all to willing to say "caveat emptor" and too bad for a buyer who doesn't do his homework before bidding. Why shouldn't the same principle apply to sellers?

BTW, I agree with Peter that your position on this issue is inherently inconsistent. ----- jim o\-S