Think about it. Doesn’t the word but often precede bad news? “You did a nice job on this, but...” “I know we said it would take only fifteen minutes, but…” The word but evokes an uh-oh response because listeners know they’re about to hear something they’d rather not. “I realize how much you need this loan, but...” means “You’re not getting the loan.” People disregard whatever goes before a but because they know that what follows it is what’s going to have more of an impact on them. The word and lets both statements stand so they both count. “You did a nice job on this, and could you please add a sentence asking them if they could ...” “I know I said it would take only fifteen minutes, and I’m sorry it’s taking longer. Our computers will be back on line shortly, and then we can . . .” “I would like to grant your loan request, and if you could provide tax records of. . .”