This paper argues that conversationalists often do (extensive) preparatory work before making a request or a proposal, which not only functions as an introduction to, and an account for the final action, but which also indicates that the forthcoming action will be a 'delicate' one, i.e. a request or proposal which the speaker doesn't like to make and which the recipient may find difficult to accept: e.g., changing an appointment, asking for a favor, etc.