The Bold Proposal

"Two million florins?!" Mr. Fitzwilliam exclaimed, even Raikes who was behind him had a shocked expression on his face.

"Matthew, I didn't expect that you would propose this much of a money," Raikes said.

"I know that's a huge sum," Matthew agreed, two million florins was like 61 million dollars in today's money.

"I want to hear the justification of this proposal," Mr. Fitzwilliam said with a serious tone.

"Mr. Fitzwilliam, my automobile is a wonderful invention of mine, but that wonderful invention has to have an infrastructure supporting it. First of all, my automobile consumes either petrol or diesel. In order for the automobile to go as far as a thousand kilometers, the country must have a refueling station that offers refueling services to our future customers. Second, I am planning to enter the oil business, using the excess funds to start an oil exploration and extraction company. Then there is also the materials such as rubber which must be sourced from a different country. I plan to start a rubber plantation." 

Fitzwilliam's brow furrowed, but his eyes sparkled with curiosity. "You intend to control every aspect of the production chain? From oil extraction to rubber plantations?" 

"That is exactly it," Matthew finished.

Mr. Fitzwilliam's expression hardened as he leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers thoughtfully on the armrest. "You do realize, Mr. Hesh, that oil isn't something you simply dig up from the ground like coal. It's elusive, unpredictable. Entire companies have gone bankrupt searching for it in vain. How can you be so confident that you'll find oil reserves?"

Matthew met Fitzwilliam's skeptical gaze head-on, his own eyes burning with determination. "Sir, I understand your hesitation. Oil exploration is a risky venture, but it's also one of the most rewarding if done right. I've done my homework—extensive research on geological surveys, potential drilling sites, and the latest techniques used in oil extraction. I'm not going into this blind."

Of course, those were all made-up. This world after all is very similar to his previous world, and he was certain of it due to the fact that the current companies that have successfully extracted oil were from the same spot it was spotted in his previous world.

Raikes, who had been silently observing the exchange, finally interjected. "Matthew, even with all the research in the world, there's no guarantee. Many have tried and failed. What makes you so certain that you'll strike black gold?"

"In business, there is one word that is paramount among businessmen, and that word is trust," Matthew said and continued. "I understand that numbers and projections can only go so far in convincing someone to take a leap of faith, especially with such a significant sum. But I'm not here to gamble blindly with your money, Mr. Fitzwilliam. I'm here to establish a foundation for the future

Fitzwilliam leaned back, crossing his arms, a skeptical yet intrigued expression on his face. "You speak of trust, but trust alone doesn't find oil reserves. It doesn't build refineries or establish rubber plantations."

"You're absolutely right, sir," Matthew conceded. "But what trust does is form the basis of partnerships that allow us to achieve the seemingly impossible. I may not have physical proof yet, but my confidence comes from a deeper understanding of where to look and how to extract the resources we need."

Fitzwilliam's eyes narrowed slightly. "And what exactly is this 'deeper understanding'? You speak as if you have some secret knowledge."

Matthew paused, choosing his words carefully. He couldn't reveal the truth about his knowledge of future oil discoveries based on his previous life. Instead, he opted for a more believable narrative.

"Let's just say, Mr. Fitzwilliam," Matthew continued, "I have access to geological data that's far more precise than what most prospectors are using today. To prove that, why don't we strike oil first and then you give me the check for that two million dollars? What do you think? You won't have nothing to lose 

Fitzwilliam's eyes flickered with surprise, and then narrowed thoughtfully. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, as if studying Matthew for any sign of bluffing. The room was silent except for the soft crackling of the fireplace, and even Raikes held his breath, waiting for his response.

"You're saying," Fitzwilliam began slowly, "that you're willing to go through the entire effort of drilling, setting up an exploration team, and investing your own resources to find oil first... with no upfront payment?"

Matthew nodded confidently. "Yes, that's exactly what I'm proposing. I understand it sounds unorthodox, but I'm that confident in my data. If we strike oil, then you'll know I'm not just chasing dreams. You'll have something tangible to justify your investment. If I fail, you won't have lost a single florin."

Raikes let out a low whistle, clearly impressed by the audacity of Matthew's offer. "That's quite a bold gamble, Matthew," he said. "But it does take the risk off Mr. Fitzwilliam's shoulders."

Fitzwilliam rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his gaze locked onto Matthew's. "You're willing to take on the initial risk entirely on your own? That includes hiring workers, equipment, and all the logistics of setting up a drilling site?"

"Yes," Matthew affirmed. "I will take care of everything. All I ask is your commitment that if—when—I strike oil, you will then provide the two million florins to scale up operations."

For a moment, Matthew couldn't tell if he was on the verge of being laughed out of the room or if he had just won the man over. Finally, Fitzwilliam let out a deep, rumbling chuckle.

"You certainly have nerve, Mr. Hesh. I'll give you that," Fitzwilliam said, his voice carrying a hint of admiration. 

"Very well. I accept your terms."

Matthew's heart leapt. He had done it. He managed to turn Fitzwilliam's skepticism into cautious agreement. 

"Then let's exchange hand to seal the deal," Matthew offered a handshake.

Mr. Fitzwilliam stared at Matthew's hand for a moment and then smiled.

"Very well," Fitzwilliam said, his lips curving into a satisfied grin. He stood up and clasped Matthew's outstretched hand with a firm grip. The handshake was strong, almost testing, as if Fitzwilliam wanted to gauge the resolve behind Matthew's bold words.

"It's a deal then," Fitzwilliam declared. "I'll hold you to your word, Mr. Hesh. No oil, no investment, though I would still invest in your automobile enterprise."