"But Monsieur...?" Monsieur Colbert did not like the sound of the idea.
"Well, naturally we wouldn't expect you to produce the wine by yourself! Our expert production staff would work under your direction. That way you have the best of everything - you continue to make wine but you have the money from the sale of your vineyard and a contract from Happimart, too. A very fine offer, I think you'll agree..."
What Appleby didn't mention was that once the "production staff" had learned everything about Colbert's ways of producing his wine, Happimart would find some reason to get rid of him.
Old Monsieur Colbert spoke again.
"This vineyard has been in my family for generations, Monsieur; it means a lot to me and the honour of my family name. What price are you offering for a wine which was good enough for the Emperor Napoleon himself?"
Daniel Appleby smiled and he named an amount that took the old man's breath away. It was far, far less than old Colbert had hoped for. But it would be just enough to pay back the money he owed and have a little left over. And he would have a job, at least. He would have to retire later than he had wanted to but he was used to working.
Old Colbert revovered himself and spoke. "Monsieur, will you allow me a few moments alone to think over your offer?"
"Certainly, Monsieur. Take as long as you need, though I will have to leave soon. It would be a pity to go without having our business brought to ...er...a happy conclusion. I will take a walk around your vineyard for a while"