Mrs. Voss entered the bank and looked curious around. This was her first time in the bank since it was her recently deceased husband who usually took care of all the financial affairs.
Mr. Gormley who was behind the counter caught quickly site of the old woman and was just about to greet her, when his boss jumped up from his chair with his usual smile, but this time his smile expressed his true feelings of happiness of what he had planed and was about to obtain.
Preston: Mrs. Voss! I’m very glad you came to see me.
The woman walked in the banker’s direction.
Preston: First, please allow me to offer my warmest and sincere condolence. The news of your husband came so…..(he struggled to find the right words) it is all so unexpected. This town has truly lost one of its greatest citizens. He was a decent and respected man. I do apologies for not being able to attend the funeral, had I only known.
Mrs. Voss: No need to worry. I know how busy a man you must be Mr. Lodge.
Now, my friends told me that you wished to see me?
Preston: Yes, that is correct. Please, do have a seat.
With his hand, he showed Mrs. Voss the seat right across from him and she sat down, still looking very curious at the new fancy surroundings that she wasn’t use to.
Preston: I understand your husband was the owner of the town’s storehouse…
Mrs. Voss: Yes.
Preston: Have you given any consideration to what should be done with the property, without your husband’s management?
Mrs. Voss: It hasn’t been something I’ve thought about, no. I haven’t had time to think clear in this past time. Well, I suppose it would be best if I some how could sell it. I have no children, so..
Preston: Yes, I’m aware of that, and therefore I’m prepared to help you in this situation.
Mrs. Voss: You could find a possible buyer?
Preston: I could. I would recommend someone who you could completely trust, when dealing with such a matter.
Mrs. Voss: You have someone in mind?
Preston: Seven years ago, as you may be aware of, I unsuccessfully tried to purchase the property from your husband. At this point I am still interested.
Mrs. Voss: I see…
Preston: This would only do good for this town’s wealth. What I have in mind would not only benefit, but also secure this town’s future for its next generations. I promise, the property will be a glorious contribution to this town and its citizens.
Mrs. Voss: I have no doubt you will make the best use of the place and therefore..
Preston: I appreciate your trust Mrs. Voss. Now, what I’m willing to offer is an amount that has been carefully calculated. My first offer I gave your husband was 3500 dollars. What I’m willing to offer today is a far more handsome amount that I hope you would find reasonable. A total sum of 5000 dollars is what I’m prepared to offer. I know you don’t have much experience with this, but I can guarantee tha....
Mrs. Voss: 5.000 dollars? For that old barn-looking property? Are you sure? No, not that much is necessary.
Preston: Mrs. Voss I can assure you this is the fairest offer that can be made on your husband’s property. I hope you’ll accept this as it will benefit you greatly. With your loss it would only be reasonable to take the full amount of what I’ve offered.
Mrs: Voss: Well, if you so dearly insist.
Preston: I only advise you to make the right decision.
Mrs. Voss: I will sell you the property then Mr. Lodge, for the amount you have offered.
Preston: I’m glad we could come to terms with the agreement.
He began finding some papers in one of his shelves behind him. After quickly finding them, he handed them across to Mrs. Voss with a pen.
Preston: Your signature should be signed at the bottom.
He pointed with his finger and watched as Mrs. Voss signed the paper. He smiled as she finished placing her signature and looked up if there was anymore that should be signed.
Preston: Splendid, and now with my signature everything will be in order.
He reached out for the paper while Mrs. Voss handed it to him with confidence and relief. Preston signed the paper quickly and made a warm eye contact with the older woman who was before him.
Preston: There, the document is now legal. Everything is in order Mrs. Voss. Now, in regards to the huge amount for the property, I would suggest a transfer to your current bank account, unless you have other means?
Mrs. Voss: To my bank account will be fine.
Preston: I will make sure the transfer will be done within the next few business days.
Mrs. Voss: Thank you Mr. Lodge, I have every trust in you.
She ascended from her chair at the same time as Preston. He extended his hand towards her to sake on the business deal that had just been completed in terms.
Preston: It’s been a pleasure doing business with you Mrs. Voss. I hope things will brighten up for you in the future.
Mrs. Voss: You are all too kind Mr. Lodge, thank you again.
Mrs. Voss departed the bank, leaving Preston in one of his happiest moments of his life. A huge amount of joy filled him and he couldn’t remove his smile. This was just too good to be true.
**Continues at the Springs Chateau: Click Here**