auto fluid level drop after change

Hi I took my 1997 3.9i LPG discovery to a LR independent garage due to some leaks. The autobox had a crack on the casing so the casing needed to be changed.

After getting the car back I checked the level (in park engine running) and there was no fluid. It took 1.45 litres to bring the level up to the first hole. I emailed them saying i was none to pleased and this was their response " As regards to the Auto Box fluid, this was filled to the level, however this can settle after driving even though we always fill then run to allow the oil to circulate and settle, re check, fill and run again and re check and fill again if necessary.Out of interest,did you check the oil after collection? as it has been a couple of weeks since we had the vehicle and I can assure you it left here full to the level."

My questions are:

1. Is it possible that after a auto fluid change I could end up with only 7.55l in the tranny instead of 9l? so are they telling the truth?

2. Could I have done any damage running around for 300 miles with the missing 1.45 litres of fluid?

does it leak ,if not then no,wont have hurt it ,before i fixed my leak it often needed several litres to top it up ,

Hi no leaks at all another issue is the sump gasket was leaking so they replaced it but it still has a leak from the back of the sump next to the tranny. They are saying its the crank seal ?

if its leaking from engine sump it is either crank seal or sump /main bearing cap ,unless its running down from above,depends how bad it is they all leak a little

Hi its leaking from the lip of the sump in the small gap between the gearbox. There does not seem to be any space for a leak to come from anywhere else but the sump. Luckily its not leaking bad, thanks for putting my mind at rest with the above info, its really appreciated!