When does an agent think its not important to return calls?

A non responsive agent to questions regarding the status of a contract offer gives our profession a bad name.  I recently submitted a contract offer that had to go to the government for approval. The agent was very responsive to my first phone call and provided all the documents I needed.  A contract offer was submitted prior to 4 p.m. that same date by fax which was confirmed to be transmitted. I called the agent on his cell and he said that he would submit the offer the next day because the government employees would not even look at it after 4 p.m (I retired from the Federal Government and I can't remember a day that I left on time-especially when it directly impacted the public, i.e. approval of a loan, approval of a transaction, etc).  For the next two days I called and left numerous messages, and received no response.  On the third day, I called his office and the secretary put me through to him.  He said he never received the fax - so why not communicate that to me?  I faxed it again and then he wanted verification of funds.  I got it to him a little after 2 p.m.--he knew it was coming, but left for the day.  Again I started the phone calling -- again, no response.   This type of behavior is totally unacceptable and non professional.  I rather have a negative answer, then no answer to my client's questions.  So, if you receive a phone call about a contract offer - please be considerate of your fellow realtor and return it promptly, or if it is after your working schedule, return it as soon as you return to work the next day.