Mel:You have my word.

我跟你保证。

That's enough for most people.

通常大家听我这么说就够了。

Bill:Okay, then, how's this.

好，这样吧。

I buy the materials and have them delivered here, and I retain 15% for up to 30 days after the punch list.

我负责买材料，并运送到这里；完工后，我会扣百分之十五的尾款，一个月后付清。

I'll give you the rest upon substantial completion ,so you can make your payroll.

只要大部分完工，我就先付百分之八十五，这样你就可以付工人的薪水了。

Mel: All right.

好吧。

I'll do it for nothing up front,but you buy the supplies,and pay me everything except 15% retainage,upon substantial completion.

这样没有前置费，我也可以动工。但你得负责购买材料，在工作大致完成后，你要支付百分之八十五的货款，扣押款不得超过15%。

Bill: Done!

成交！