I slit the end to get it out to take the picture, but otherwise it is just as it was in my mailbox. I sent the item out just as if I had full payment, enclosed the check with the item and asked the buyer to please send me another check.
It's not her fault the PO machines think they are sharks from Florida.
Good news! I had e-mailed the buyer this morning and told her of the postal mishap and sent her the URL of the "evidence." Just now she Paypal'd me the money. Said I shouldn't have to wait any longer for payment. Nice lady!