Direct to.
Nice guys or not. As has been said before if you haven't signed anything with specific conditions stated on it that YOU have agreed to, then they CANNOT LEGALLY hold your money without your consent. Call consumer affairs for advice, you might get some good ammo.
My suggestion is first to send a letter then to call up the company, DO NOT discuss anything with the secretary and talk directly to the owner/manager. State your case that based on the information you were given you have done the right thing by them however nothing was signed if they could kindly refund my money. If not then calmly state that you believe that you are not being treated fairly and that you will sought legal action. Don't get angry is the key but know your rights.
My advice No.2: You seem like a nice guy. Nice guys get stepped on in this industry. It happeded to me and sometimes the çun+ in you has to step out and take charge.. Good luck.