“How much for the phonograph?” the nobleman inquired.
“S-Seven thousand five hundred scellars, sir. You can’t imagine the hoops I had to jump through to secure this price.” It was evident that the red-bearded man wished to convince his customer that he was not being overcharged simply for being a noble.
“Is that not too steep for the average household?”
The red-bearded man’s mouth snapped shut. The market for recording devices and phonographs, previously considered playthings for children, was limited, but he couldn’t admit that the high price was necessary to support his family. The nobleman, noticing the stout man’s distressed expression, began to write a figure on a check.
“I shall give you Julian’s address. Meet him in person and try to persuade him. When you send me the phonograph, send along his music as well.”
The salesman remained silent, taken aback by the generous opportunity.
“Are you not up to the task?”
“O-Of course I am, sir!”
