G' Is it possible that you are giving refunds because you have been found out and the fact that fraud is punishable by the law? the fact that you are refunding the money does not change the fact. If I rob a bank, then return the money, does not change the fact that I robbed the bank.
Why didn't you simply tell the truth (if your story is true?)and ask for help for John? I am feeling there was intent to defraud, it just doesn't add up. You actually said that when you found out about the auction that "you were brought to tears" Was this part of the story?
Forget bringing John on, simply scan a article from the paper that notes Hannas death, it will have Johns name there also, include the date and paper s we can verify without bringing John into this if he is the real deal.