New York Times Sales ripoff fraudulent credit card charges Northvale New Jersey

I have had my NYT subscription automatically charged to my Discover card for more than two years. When doing my taxes last year (for years 2003 and 2004), I noted that an additional monthly charge of $48.30 was added to the usual charge of $29.40 for 7-day delivery of the newspaper. I called NYT Sales and they denied any knowledge of the $48.30 charge, even though their 800 number was listed on the CC statement. I then called Discover, who confirmed that both charges were from NYT Sales. I wrote a letter to Discover and to the NYT Sales asking for reimbursement for the monthly charge of $48.30 which dates back to at least Jan 2004. Discover Card did credit me for charges in 2004. They were unable to get any response from NYT Sales. NYT Sales has continued to bill me $48.30 on a monthly basis, including this month (12/2005).

For the last four months, they have also been sending me an invoice for $29.40, which I have paid. However, now, because of the Discover Card credits to my account, they have referred this to a collection agency, claiming I owe about $156. This makes no sensethey owe me at least $600 dollars ($48.30 x 12). I have disputed their claim and am waiting to hear from them. Discover Card states that they still cannot get any response to their inquiries about this continuing and mysterious charge, which NYT Sales keeps insisting is not from them. I have sent them copies of my Discover Card statements from Jan 2004 through August 2005 to prove that in fact these charges are appearing on my account.

I have recently written to the CEO of Discover Financial Services regarding this matter, and wonder whether it would be worthwhile contacting the Attorney General for the State of NJ and Delaware (Discover is based there). I am tempted to cancel the subscription and close my Discover card account after paying off all but the charges in question; however, I would probably then have two collection agencies, one from NYT Sales and the other from Discover Card.

I have a superb credit rating and do not want it jeopardized. The amounts in question are trivial. Is it worth it to stand up for principle in this situation, or should I just pay what the collection agency says I owe, then cancel the Discover Card account (that seems the only way to stop these recurring $48.30 charges from NYT Sales)?

Any help appreciated.

Ishan
Timonium, Maryland
U.S.A.