"Should the board change its views and be willing to discuss a transaction in which the employees would obtain significant majority ownership, we remain willing to participate," he said.

We have been waiting to discuss a new transaction with you.

"I want to discuss a financial transaction."

However, Steve made it clear to me that if a new board were elected, he would be interested in discussing a major transaction with Yahoo.

Still, Alere said it is keen to work towards a recommended takeover offer and would welcome the opportunity to discuss a possible transaction in a constructive manner.

Both a formal situation, in which the man is discussing betrothal to the attentive girl, and a transaction in a brothel have been suggested as the subject.

"I was encouraged by the fact that they are willing to discuss a transaction," said David Anders, an analyst with Credit Suisse First Boston.

Superior said in a statement that the offer to discuss such a transaction had come from both companies.

Microsoft said that it would be interested in discussing a new transaction with Yahoo if the current board is replaced and welcomed Icahn's intervention.

The companies are discussing a nearly all-stock transaction that would represent about a 20 percent premium over Lucent's current value of $33.5 billion.