You are consulted by Ms Michelle Adams, who instructs you that, in a search for anaffordable laptop computer, she found an advertisement online for a 'top of therange' Acer laptop computer for just R7000, which she thought was an excellentprice. She immediately emailed the seller, one Freddie Merx, and offered topurchase the computer for the asking price. She then learnt from a friend thatFreddie operates a business of buying and selling used computers; that he has areputation for not keeping his word; and that he owes a lot of people money. Laterthat day Michelle emailed Freddie again and withdrew her offer. The next dayFreddie emailed his 'acceptance' of Michelle's offer, and is now threatening her withlegal action if she does not pay him the asking price.

Explain the legal principles applicable to this case, and advise Michelle on herprospects of defending Freddie's claim for the purchase price