I disagree; I think it's a pretty important line. The aim was less about it being a sob story and more about introducing the idea, without accusation, that he i

I disagree; I think it's a pretty important line. The aim was less about it being a sob story and more about introducing the idea, without accusation, that he is being slow and unreasonable. You do have something of a point; but I don't think it will open the way for him to control negotiations. It was deliberately worded to be neutral with no suggestion that the writer is desperate for money. On the other hand; if the gp is concerned then anything will do. Perhaps "I like to ensure a steady inflow of money whilst contracting and, as you can imagine, a missed payment can affect my bookkeeping" (that wasn't a very good example - it's early - but yu get the idea). Finally; if it does amount to leverage it is only a little. On he other hand the gp has the big gun of the 30 day limit to hand - that is definitely something not to mention till on the phone :-)