I arrived a little early for my sales appointment with the office manager of Lyon Industries, and spoke to the receptionist. 

Juri: Hello. I’m here for my 11:30 appointment with Sue Gibbons. 

Receptionist: What is your name? 

Juri: It’s Juri Lakoff. 

Receptionist: I’ll let her know that you’re here. [Speaking into the telephone] Sue, this is Rhonda. Your 11:30 appointment is here. Should I send him up? Okay, I’ll do that. [Hangs up the telephone] Ms. Gibbons says that [bad word] a little late and is tied up in another meeting right now. She should be wrapping things up very quickly and will be free in a few minutes. Would you like to wait in the reception area right over there? 

Juri: Sure. No problem. 

Receptionist: Can I get you something? Coffee or tea? 

Juri: No, I’m fine. I was just wondering how many employees you have in this office. 

Receptionist: I don’t know precisely, but I think we have about 80. 

Juri: Oh, that’s a lot. Is [bad word] planning on expanding? 

Receptionist: I’m sorry, but I really don’t know. I’m sure Ms. Gibbons can answer those questions for you. 

Juri: Right, right. I didn’t mean to pump you for information. I was just trying to get the inside scoop on [bad word] before my meeting. 

Receptionist: I understand. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to answer this call. Ms. Gibbons should be finished with her other meeting in no time. 

Juri: Oh, sure. I didn’t mean to keep you. Sorry.