II + 

The Padrone liked Gian-Luca so well that he went in person to see Fabio. “I hear that you are cheap,” was how he began. “Now suppose I should give you an order?” + 

“We are cheaper than cheap,” said Fabio promptly, “and we only sell of the best.” + 

“That remains to be seen,” said the Padrone suspiciously. “I have heard that story before.” + 

Now Fabio was mild, but the mildest Italian responds like an old warhorse to a bugle when he senses the battle of a bargain. Fabio’s eyes began to shine in anticipation, and he rubbed his plump hands on his apron. + 

“I am likely to require twelve dozen tins of tomatoes,” the Padrone announced with unction. “On so large an order what discount do I get? My order depends on the discount.” + 

“Is that all?” exclaimed Fabio. “So insignificant an order⁠—will you not be requiring paste?” + 

“That is as it may be,” grinned the Padrone. “Let us first come to terms for the tomatoes.” + 

“Shall we say two percent, for cash?” inquired Fabio. + 

“Per Bacco! No!” shouted the Padrone. + 

“That is generous,” remarked Fabio in a rising crescendo. + 

“It is robbery!” retorted the Padrone. + 

They argued, they glared, they thumped on the counter, bringing strange but explicit accusations. One would have thought that blows were in the offing, so fierce were their faces and their gestures. As a matter of fact they were fast becoming friends, acquiring a mutual respect. In the end they retired to the room behind the shop and opened a bottle of wine. + 

“Salute!” smiled Fabio. + 

“Felicita!” bowed the Padrone, lifting his glass with an air. “Tomorrow we deliver without fail,” promised Fabio. “Do not incommode yourself unduly, Signor Boselli; tomorrow will be good, but a day more or less⁠—” + 

“I thank you for your courtesy,” beamed Fabio. + 