Previously-hired retainer does not exist the next day

Time: 8:50 AM PST
Frequency: First occurrence (N/A)
World name: Hyperion
Character name: Judge Mint
NPC name: Chachabi
Class/Level: Gladiator 20
Party or solo: Solo
In-game time: 4/14/08
Area and coordinates: Ul'dah - Steps of Thal (X:19 Y:9)
Steps:
1. Created a retainer with Chachabi by the name Peppermint.
2. Received an error message indicating retainer application denied. (I suspect this was due to server congestion, as there was a 2 minute period where no actions could be taken.)
3. Created a retainer with Chachabi by the name Peppermint.
4. Received a message indicating retainer created.
5. Summoned a retainer with the Summoning Bell at X13 Y:9. However, the listing had 2 retainers. As I used the same name for both, I was unclear if this was a duplicate or two different retainers.
6. Deleted one of the retainers.
7. Summoned the only retainer listed.
8. Deposited gear and items into retainer.
9. The next day, when checking the Summoning Bell in Ul'dah - Steps of Thal (X:13 Y:9), a message indicates I have not hired a retainer. Talking to Chachabi confirms that there is no retainer.
10. Recreated a retainer to see if items were stored in such a way that they could be retried, but there were no items in the retainer's possession.

Connection Specs
- Type of internet connection/provider: Comcast digital cable
- Modem maker/model number: Motorola SB6121

Model Number of the PlayStation 3 You Are Using
- Model Number:CECHE01