How to deal with Phone Solicitors

At work, one of my jobs is to field calls for my father in law. We have this "code" that indicates when a phone solicitor is calling. You see, my father in law does not go by his first name. Instead, he uses his middle name. So, when ever someone asks for "Harold", I automatically tell them no one is there by that name, or that he is not available and ask them if they'd like to leave a message. Yesterday, however, the conversation went a little funny. Here's what happened...

"Banner Broach, this is Kim speaking. How may I help you?"

"Yes, is Harold there please?"

"There is no one here by that name. (pause) Would you like to leave a message?"

(LONG pause)

"Uh, no..thanks." (phone disconnects)

I immediately realized what I had said to her and burst out in uncontrollable laughter! My brother in law was in the other office and at first I thought maybe he did not hear what I had said but then he came out and said "OH MY GOSH! That was the best line ever! I have to remember that next time!"

I wish it had been on purpose, but still it was most certainly a good way to stump anyone calling just to "bug" my father in law!