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You ought to give him at least–”’ ‘and here he mentioned a…

“You ought to give him at least–”’ ‘and here he mentioned a sum of several thousands of pounds. ‘That’s very high,’ said the V.I.P. ‘You’ve got to get a good man,’ said Belcher. ‘Mind you, if you offered it to me, I wouldn’t take it on myself, at that price.’ That was the operative sentence. A few…” quote by Agatha Christie
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““You ought to give him at least–”’ ‘and here he mentioned a sum of several thousands of pounds. ‘That’s very high,’ said the V.I.P. ‘You’ve got to get a good man,’ said Belcher. ‘Mind you, if you offered it to me, I wouldn’t take it on myself, at that price.’ That was the operative sentence. A few days later Belcher was begged, on his own valuation, to accept such a sum,””

Agatha Christie

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Negotiations can be derailed by hidden motives and inflated expectations, leading to costly misunderstandings.

In simple terms: Hidden agendas can ruin deals.

Key Takeaway

Clarify terms and motives early.

Themes

negotiation trust communication money

Mood

skeptical analytical

Type

practical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • business deals
  • legal contracts
  • personal agreements

Key Concepts

principle power dynamics valuation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps ensure transparent negotiations?
  • How to detect hidden motives?
A Different Perspective

Power imbalances may persist despite clarity.

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