Call One - Monday, 8th September 2003, 9:07am
PM: [My own name]?
Me: Speaking.
[Pause] [It was at this point that I began taping the call.]
Can I help you?
PM: You got my letter.
Me: Who's calling please?
[Pause]
PM: Am I speaking to [my own name]?
Me: Yes sir. How can I help you?
PM: I sent you a letter.
Me: Regarding..?
PM: Marlin. I am Marlin.
[I pause momentarily]
Me: You're Peter Marlin?
PM: I haven't seen my name. You do not listen.
Me: Mr Marlin, may I ask where you're calling from?
PM: Why do you not listen?
Me: I'm listening now. Would you care to give me some information about yourself? You say your name's Peter Marlin. Is that your real name?
[Silence]
Mr Marlin?
PM: I expect you to listen. To tell.
Me: I am listening. But I can't tell anyone anything unless I know the facts. What is it you expect me to report?
PM: I sent proof.
Me: The finger?
[Silence]
You have to understand Mr Marlin, no editor will allow me to go to press without substantial evidence of a story. That means details, background, something more to go on.
[Silence]
Perhaps you could tell me where the finger came from?
[Silence]
Mr Marlin?
[Silence]
Maybe you could come into the office sometime? Tell me your story, give me some details?
[Pause]
PM: I am serious.
Me: I don't doubt that Mr Marlin, but I can't do anything without more information. Perhaps-
[The line goes dead]
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