pourparler

from The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48

Pourparler \Pour`par`ler"\, n. [F.] (Diplomacy)
   A consultation preliminary to a treaty.
   [1913 Webster]

from Bouvier's Law Dictionary, Revised 6th Ed (1856)

POURPARLER, French law. The conversations and negotiations which have taken 
place between the parties in order to make an agreement. These form no part 
of the agreement. Pard. Dr. Com. 142. 
     2. The general rule in the common law is the same, parol proof cannot, 
therefore, be given to contradict, alter, add to, or diminish a written 
instrument, except in some particular cases. 1 Dall. 426; Dall. 340; 8 Serg. 
& Rawle, 609; 7 Serg. Rawle, 114.