It seems like at least 75% of people (if not more) I see taking commissions are doing so giving the reason they need the money with some sob story or another of how they lost their job or health issue or issue with their pet or what have you, the list is endless. Guilt and pity seem to be the norm with doing business in the online art world as a sales tactic, so guess this person figured it was okay to relate their life issues as a valid excuse. When nearly losing their electricity wasn't garnering enough time from not having to deal with you, this guy gives his 'mate's' miscarriage as the reason. While that is a horrible thing to have happen, my skeptical nature would leave me wondering if that was a lie or not, mostly due to have dealing with people who fake illness to get their way over the years.

Their behavior was unprofessional in that the way they gave responses (frankly I find any sob story as tacky, guilt tripping and unacceptable where purchases are made), and as you admitted your own responses weren't so polite either. My advice should you come across another rude individual is to try and stay polite yourself and not stoop to their level. You want your product that you paid for after all and in the best quality so try not to give them a reason to wish to deny you that or take longer. Don't give into their guilt trips or excuses, tell them you can wait (if you can) but request a reasonable deadline. If they miss this deadline without a word then politely ask the status of what you purchased.