This was typical of a merchant's utilitarian mindset, as revealing one's intentions would inevitably lead to the Little Ghost's extortion.
However, Owen Bertram's current status demanded a just and aboveboard approach, and he disdained such trickery. Additionally, this object held great significance, and Owen felt a powerful force of cause and effect lurking. To obtain this treasure, he must shoulder the Little Ghost's cause and effect; otherwise, a disaster would befall him in the future!
Many times, the actions of influential figures might seem foolish to those unaware of the full story. But once they reach a certain level, it's not about being unaware, but about an unwillingness or inability to act differently.
Moreover, there were often other hidden circumstances...
