Mr. Minser owned the only general store in town. He was friends with many of the farm estates from whom he bought wheat, corn, chicken, and beef. They would often come to give him deals and do business with him. The only people who purchased from his store were the estate's servants, except for Mr. D, the man who sold him the beef and chicken. Mr. D had 15 children, one of whom was 18 and accompanied his father almost everywhere. There was only one large wheat estate nearby, as well as other large estates in the area. Any other nearby estate was at least two hundred miles away.
On a busy day, four businessmen entered his shop. They were the men from whom he had borrowed a loan one year ago in order to purchase a much-needed supply of corn and wheat. However, he was still unable to pay back the loan.
"Look," said one of them, seeming half-asleep, "you need to pay your loan."
Suddenly, there was a shout as someone tried to enter the shop, but the crowd of chatting people inside the doorway prevented them.
It happened to be his sister with her four little kids with their pocket money who liked to buy candy. His sister simply grabbed an apron, smiled, and said, "Busy day, huh?" before going into the back of the store.
"I want four candies," said the youngest, coming up to the counter and putting down his money.
"Ok, just wait one minute," he replied.
Just then, Mr. D entered with his two oldest sons. "I have got a parasol for you, plus I need my rifle back. I asked you to fix and clean it the other day," he said. "Oh, and I got this list. I don't really know what's on it, save ginger. My wife wrote them down. She ain't feeling good these days. It's ingredients to make some sort of tea, I heard." He then frowned.
"I'll get it for you," Minser said. "Exactly when was she supposed to have the baby?"
In a week, Mr. D replied.
Mr. Minser nodded and made a mental note, "I'll make sure to prepare everything for her. Congratulations to you and your wife." He then took the parasol and rifle from Mr. D, placing them behind the counter.
Meanwhile, the youngest child impatiently tugged at Mr. Minser's apron, reminding him about the candies. "Alright, young one, let me grab the candies for you," he said, stepping away from the counter and heading towards the candy aisle.
As he sorted through the various candy jars, Mr. Minser's mind drifted back to the four businessmen who had entered earlier. The reminder about the loan made his stomach churn with worry. He knew he had to come up with a solution soon, or they would surely take action against him. Perhaps he could negotiate a payment plan or find a way to generate more income from his store.
Returning to the counter with four candies in hand, Mr. Minser smiled at the youngest child. "Here you go, my friend. Enjoy your candy," he said, handing over the sweet treats.
Just then, a familiar voice called out from the doorway, "Minser, my boy! I hope you have good news for us," said one of the businessmen. Mr. Minser recognized him as Mr. Thompson, the leader of the group.
Slightly flustered, Mr. Minser attempted to keep a calm demeanor. "I...I'm still working on it, Mr. Thompson. Business has been slow lately, but I assure you, I am doing everything I can to repay the loan."
Mr. Thompson's expression softened a bit, and he sighed. "We have been patient with you, Minser. We understand that times have been tough, but we cannot wait forever. You need to come up with a payment plan soon, or we will have to take further action."
Mr. Minser nodded, feeling a bit defeated. "I understand, Mr. Thompson, and I appreciate your patience. Please give me a little more time, and I promise I will come up with a solution."
Just then, Mr. D chimed in, overhearing the conversation. "Minser, if there's anything I can do to help, let me know. I can speak to some of the other estates and see if they need anything from your store. Perhaps we can generate more business for you."
Mr. Minser's eyes lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Mr. D. That would be immensely helpful. I will gladly provide any goods they might need and give them the best deals possible."
As the conversation continued between Mr. Minser, Mr. Thompson, and Mr. D, Mr. Minser's sister emerged from the back room with a small bag in hand. "I've gathered the ingredients for the tea, Mr. D. I hope it helps your wife feel better," she said with a smile.
Mr. D's face brightened up, and he thanked her profusely. "You are a lifesaver, Minser's sister. I don't know what we would do without you."
With a renewed sense of hope and determination, Mr. Minser turned his attention back to the businessmen. "I will come up with a payment plan, gentlemen, and I will not let you down. I appreciate your understanding and will do whatever it takes to resolve this matter."
The businessmen exchanged a few skeptical glances but eventually nodded. "Very well, Minser. We will give you a little more time, but do not disappoint us," Mr. Thompson warned before they left the store.
As the day quieted down and the customers dispersed, Mr. Minser reflected on the challenges he faced. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but with the support of his friends and the determination to find a solution, he was determined to overcome this hurdle.