Shorts,
Seems to me the answer to your question could be relatively simple. What is a Metallurgical Lab to do until they receive new samples?
It would seem that their work was completed at the time of this letter and that they would begin working together again in the future.
"We. at AuRIC Metallurgical Laboratories, LLC, are looking forward to the commencement of our involvement in this exciting project."
The project has not yet commenced, yes?
Have a great weekend all!
Cat
Back in ancient days, the Druids thought black cats were human beings.