I've tried 2nd chances several times when my high bidders evaporated. I don't believe I've ever gotten a response, though (maybe they're wary of 2nd chance offers) I believe that the ebay 2nd chance offer IS a buy-it-now deal, so you don't have an easy way to be flexible.
Check your messages in "my ebay" to be sure that the email msg you received is actually from ebay.
David Bean
Arlington, MA
beandk at are-see-enn dot com