Thanks jackastor. I'll try what you've suggested.
I'm hoping this isn't a wonky battery issue, though. I do remember having the black screen of death during the initial charge on this replacement device...
(Not likely I'd find any Kobo Touchs at Borders for exchange - with the liquidation in process and all... )
In which case, what? Send it to Canada?
But perhaps I'm putting the cart way before the horse on this one.