Joe couldn’t help but listen in. bill was one of his oldest business friends. bill was also a customer — he owned a store that sold outdoor supplies and clothing. Over the years, he had ordered thousands of Joe’s umbrellas and was the best dealer that Joe had. The two of them had been through a lot together and had forged a deep relationship. They both respected each other despite being very different. Joe was the consummate big-business guy — bill was an entrepreneur, a small-business man. both were very successful and enjoyed each other’s friendship. 8