Elise will share the telling of her business meeting with the Grand Duke the day she arrived in Kapri.

I arrived at Grand Duke Goatbeard’s office and entered the building. Snoffduffle greeted me and asked if he could help me. I informed him that I was a French sea merchant and wished to discuss a possible business venture with the Grand Duke. He asked me to wait and went into the Grand Duke’s office to inform the Grand Duke of my request.

A few moments later, he returned and escorted me into Goatbeard’s office.

“Good day, young lady. How may I be of service?” Goatbeard asked.

“My name is Elise Boissonneau. My father is Delmore Boissonneau, a respected French sea merchant.”

“I am aware of your father. He trades mainly with Jamaica and New France, does he not?”

“That is correct, Sir. I am here representing him with a business proposition.”

“Is that so? It is quite unusual for a woman, especially a young one, to be negotiating a business deal.”

“Grand Duke, I was raised on merchant ships and have been around the shipping business since I was ten years of age. I can assure you I am more than capable of handling the task.”

“Perhaps. But I am accustomed to meeting with the owners and merchants I deal with. Why did your father not come or send a letter of introduction?”

“I see you are a shrewd businessman. The truth of the matter is, my father does not know I am here. I am acting on my own initiative.”

“I admire initiative, but why would you not inform your father of your intentions?”

“My father recently suffered the loss of a ship including its entire cargo. His business is in a precarious state, and he is far too proud to ask for help.”

“I am not in the business of charity,” Goatbeard stated.

“And I am not seeking it. My business plan is sound and will benefit us both.”

“I am listening, “Goatbeard stated.

“The Goatbeard Shipping Company does not ship to The Caribbean or New France. Correct?”

“That is correct. The journey is too far, and the risks are exceeding high,” Goatbeard replied.

“I propose that you allow Boissonneau Exports to take that risk for you. You supply us with local goods at a discounted price, and we will ship them to the New World, where we will make our profits. Even with our discount, you will earn more due to the extra volume you are able to ship.

In return, we will give you a discount on products we bring back from the New World. We will not compete with you, and you will be able to ship more goods.”

“It is an interesting plan. I will give it due consideration.”

“Thank you, Grand Duke.”

“It will take some time to calculate the prospect of profit. And to draft an appropriate agreement if it appears worthwhile. How long are you planning to stay in Kapri?”

“I shall stay as long as it takes.”

“I must say, I am impressed, Miss Boissonneau. Your proposal sounds promising. Shall I have Snoffduffle escort you to the Portbelly Inn? I am confident they have rooms available.”

“That is very considerate, but I would prefer to explore the village on my own.”

“As you wish. I am sure you will find it quite charming.”

“Grand Duke, may I ask a personal favor?”

“Go on.”

“I am wondering if you are acquainted with Baron Britpop Blastfurnace?”

“I am. You know the Baron?”

“Our paths have crossed on a few occasions. Since I am in Kapri, I feel obligated to pay him a visit.”

At this point, Britpop arrived and Snoffduffle informed the Grand Duke of his presence. The Grand Duke asked me to wait in the next room so I could make an entrance and surprise Britpop. Which I did.

I walked into the room, looked at Britpop, and said, “To answer your question from our last conversation. No, I don’t always do what’s expected.”

“It appears you are a bit of a pirate also,” Bitpop said.

“Indeed,” I replied.

The Grand Duke said, “Baron Britpop, Miss Boissonneau has come to me with a business proposition. She will be staying in town for a time. Would you be so kind as to show her around the village and help her arrange accommodations?” the Grand Duke said.

“Of course. It would be my great pleasure,” Britpop replied.

Britpop turned to me and said, “If you agree?”

“A guide would be agreeable,” I replied.

Then we left.

I shall resume the telling of the tale.

“Your business plan is brilliant. I don’t see how The Grand Duke could refuse,” I said.

“I am greatly impressed as well,” Maria said.

“As am I,” Andelbert added.

“Well, it is in the Grand Duke’s hands now,” Elise replied.

I raised my glass and said, “To Elise’s success!”

“Hear, hear,” Andelbert and Maria added.