If this reply had been personal.."Hey, this is what I liked about your HN submissions and I think I could use your input, are you willing to provide it..this is how you contact me if you want to.."
I might have formed a different conclusion.
I personally think a Tell HN with an accusatory tone is extreme - could have checked headers, could have talked in private, could have ignored it, could have edited your bio to flame me specifically, could have reported spam on your email client, any number of things - but whatever floats your boat works for me. I did reach out after all so you're free to do what you like in return.
But as I've said earlier, sorry I inconvenienced you so much w/ my little email. Have a great weekend!
I have more respect for someone that admits mistakes outright.
An apology has 3 parts: 1. You say "I made a mistake" 2. You apologize to the person for the mistake 3. You dont make the same mistake again
1. I made a mistake 2. I am very sorry that I did this to you 3. I wont do this again.
Someone who doesn't use a 3 step apology doesn't mean it to begin with.