I would consider it for what it was and we need more of- a random act of kindness, simply pay it forward someday. I often wonder if I'm transgressing some unspoken secret river codes as well so I simply try to follow the golden rule.
You could also go to an electrical wholesaler like Nedco and grab some welding cable either the same gauge or larger,depending how far you 're going, nice and flexible too. Check too for SOW or SOOW (looks like black extension cord) and ensure the insulation is suitable for outdoor usage.
looking for a pair of simms waders size small if anyone can help ther for my wife...
check on some of the other forums, CRAA or fly fishing forums, you might get lucky. I wear Bare waders had them for years, Le baron stocks some smaller sizes decent price but not Simms mind you