Glenda,

Too bad there isn't video on these things so that you could see the expression on my face!  I am sorry to say that even from the "client" perspective, this still doesn't make any sense.

I use independents as much as possible.  I prefer to talk tot he person that actually did the search, not make a call and then wait for a call back to get an answer.  There are only 3 companies that I use on a weekly basis.  They all do terrific work for me and I would not consider an independent in the areas that they cover....even if I do have to beg for a county now and then (Luv Ya Kurt ).

Isn't everyone always saying how they are asked to lower their fees?  Why would a company be willing to pay more $ for work from the same person?!? 

I would call the person that you usually talk to and tell them exactly what you posted here.  Ask the if there was a problem with the work you provided.  If they tell you "No, there was no problem"..ask them, point blank... Why are you willing to pay 20% more for the exact same search.

Hopefully, you have a good enough relationship with this client that they will be honest and up front about what happened.