But this one man I had not tried yet, because I knew that he would drive a cruel bargain with me when he saw I wanted the money.

But at last I went to him and told him just what my wishes were.
"Well," he said, "it is a very bad time for selling land.

But to oblige you, because you are a customer, I will give you eight hundred francs for your little place.

That is really much more than I can afford." "Eight hundred francs!" I exclaimed, in despair.

"But I have paid you nearly twice as much for it in the last three years! What do you take me for?
To sell such a gem of a vineyard for eight hundred francs?
If you offer me thirteen hundred I will discuss the matter with you." "I have known you a long time, Signor Grandi, and you are an honest man.