Jack Petty has been a salesman for over thirty years and writes this: “Contrary to popular opinion, good salespeople don’t talk: they listen.  They ask questions that are designed to elicit specific information: namely, what factors does the purchasing agent consider to be critical before ‘coming to yes’.  Professional purchasing agents are happy to receive the questions and answer them honestly so that we can cut to the chase and not waste time.  Occasionally, however, some purchasing agents obviously do not relish my questions and answer them evasively.  For those occasions, experience has provided me with three indelible lessons.  1) There is something in the background that will forever remain hidden.  2) I may ask the most penetrating questions but I will never receive a straight answer; nor will I ever discover what’s being covered up.  3) There is a personal friend or relation who has the business; will retain it; and the purchasing agent is on the take.” 

From a lifetime of observing politics, politicians, and evasive answers, Jack can assure you that there are many unseen kith and kin lurking profitably in the background; and the front men are well rewarded for their lies.