I wonder if anyone on the brain trust knows of a possible source of this
chip?

Digikey, Mouser and Jameco in the US have been tried. Dallas/Maxim have
them on a 6 week lead time.

I need a few pieces rather urgently.

Any suggested suppliers?
--
Philip de Cadenet G4ZOW
Transmitters 'R' Us
http://www.transmittersrus.com