Saying “No” on the client’s behalf

Most media reps understand how this game is played and give up after one or two token attempts at “handling objections.” It is only those who don’t know when to quit who annoy. They insist that my client was very interested at the prospect of placing ads, oh, I dunno, on the insides of air sickness bags.
The rep this morning just wouldn’t let go. “What? You don’t want more sales for your client? I spoke with him. He told me to call you. I can’t imagine he would have given me your number if he wasn’t very, VERY interested.”
I replied, “He has been my client for nine years. You don’t suppose that by now I know him better than you do?”
Note to [Client]: You’re welcome.
—Steve Cuno