Kevin,   Wasn't that the point of some of the earlier post on here about

the company maybe not having enough capital?  Why should we (anyone)

doing work for them have to be hung out, in case they don't get paid, just

because as you state, "they normally" do it that way?  All the more reason

to demand payment before service?   I assume they may be able to balk

at the request and get another sucker to do the close, and then let them

be the one complaing about "non-payment".  Better to be doing nothing

and not getting paid for it, than driving a great distance and being

stiffed.   I guess at some point you'll find out how bad they need the service done.

George

p.s.  don't expect things to change if you keep doing it the way you've

been doing it, ie:   work for a new (unknown) firm, and getting stiffed.