When it says no recent conversations click on the very bottom left where it says "show all". That will give you all the conversation you've ever had that weren't deltedApparently Private Messages are not showing up and being saved after they have been sent. I did not get your response. It is not showing either and did not come through.
Each time I click on the little envelope next to the bell I get a message that I have no recent conversations. Perhaps a glitch in the new format. I will have to check with Brian about this.