Path: utzoo!utgpu!watserv1!watmath!iuvax!mailrus!accuvax.nwu.edu!nucsrl!telecom-request
From: cmoore@brl.mil (VLD/VMB)
Newsgroups: comp.dcom.telecom
Subject: On Learning That a Number is Unlisted
Message-ID: <3455@accuvax.nwu.edu>
Date: 1 Feb 90 15:00:03 GMT
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X-Telecom-Digest: Volume 10, Issue 70, message 9 of 10


Somebody wrote:

>> the theory goes that non-pubs cause extra aggravation for the
>> operator because of the people, who not finding it in the book,
>> call to argue with the operator about it; particularly when he
>> can't find it either.

Some phone books have this common-courtesy reminder: When you are told
that a number is unlisted (or, merely using a different way of saying
the same thing, non-published), please do NOT persist in trying to get
it; it is not available, period.


[Moderator's Note: Not only that, but over sixty years ago, the cover
of the Chicago Telephone Company (predecessor of IBT) alphabetical
directory printed this admonition to subscribers: "We ask that our
subscribers extend the same courteous speech to our operators that
they wish to hear in return. Our operators are not required by the
Company to remain connected with, or listen to a subscriber who uses
profane language in addressing them."  Like what is it 'they' say?
Trying to bail out the ocean using a one gallon bucket.....  Operators
are terribly mistreated by some crude, belligerent customers.  PT]