As for prompt disclosure, forget it.

Nor is prompt disclosure required.

Oddly, though the law requires prompt disclosure of insider sales, he neglected to inform the S.E.C. about this transaction until 34 weeks had passed.

"Starting immediately, we will only do these transactions for clients that agree to make prompt disclosure," Mr. Weill said.

Apple's investors have been trading in the dark for weeks, despite standards calling for prompt public disclosure.

The rules that govern "prompt disclosure" of key information in the American stock market are not hard and fast.

Nasdaq rules require any listed company to make "prompt disclosure" of "any material information that may affect the value of its securities or influence investors' decisions."

The E.P.A. has argued, however, that the laws could prevent prompt disclosure of threats to public health.

Their other answer is that the campaign goes well beyond what the law requires by making prompt and complete disclosure of all contributions on its Web site.

Any such lack of prompt disclosure will very likely subject Mr. Lay to additional suits, lawyers say.