[speaker001:] Now we have settled the terms of payment. Is it possible to effect shipment during September?
[speaker002:] I don't think we can.
[speaker001:] Then when is the earliest we can expect shipment?
[speaker002:] By the middle of October, I think.
[speaker001:] That's too late. You see, November is the season for this commodity in our market, and our Customs formalities are rather complicated.
[speaker002:] I understand.
[speaker001:] Besides, the flow through the marketing channels and the red tape involved take at least a couple of weeks. Thus, after shipment it will be four to five weeks altogether before the goods can reach our retailers. The goods must therefore be shipped before October; otherwise we won't be in time for the selling season.
[speaker002:] But our factories are fully committed for the third quarter. In fact, many of our clients are placing orders for delivery in the fourth quarter.
[speaker001:] Mr. Brown, you certainly realize that the time of delivery is a matter of great importance to us. If we place our goods on the market at a time when all other importers have already sold their goods at profitable prices, we shall lose out.
[speaker002:] I see your point. However, we have done more business this year than any of the previous years. I am very sorry to say that we cannot advance the time of delivery.
[speaker001:] That's too bad, but I sincerely hope you will give our request your special consideration.
[speaker002:] You may take it from me that the last thing we want to do is to disappoint an old customer like you. But the fact remains that our manufacturers have a heavy backlog on their hands.
[speaker001:] But can't you find some way to get round your producers for an earlier delivery? Make a special effort, please. A timely delivery means a lot to us.
[speaker002:] All right. We'll get in touch with our producers and see what they have to say.