James: Well, that deal is as good as it gets. But eventually, I too will leave the business and probably sell it to someone else.  So, I need to keep in mind the use of the Porter name in those dealings.

Bette: Yes. Again, congratulations. I hope you do very well with it. If there are no more questions, then I will have my attorney’s draw up the paper work and send it to you sometime in mid-December.

James: I’m overwhelmed. Are you two sure, this is what you want to do?

Paris: I’m sure. I have other plans for my future and nothing would please me more than to see you get your own gallery and do well.

Bette: We both will be available by phone should you need some advice from time to time. And if you really want us on your board, then I will consider being a member. But I will do it with no compensation, however I might ask that you pick up my travel expenses to attend meetings. You know the normal stuff that board members do. Remember the board is not management. Their purpose is to oversee that management is reaching the goals set out in its organizational documents and it complies with the law. They are advisory for the most part. But if you don’t follow the advice of your board, you need a good business reason not to. Without that, your board will have good reason to resign.

Paris: I would be glad to serve too, if you wish. But you are the owner and you will call the shots. You will do all the hiring and firing and you make all the decisions. You will reap the rewards or suffer the consequences of your decisions.

James: But you will advise me from time to time?

Bette: Yes, we will, but only at your request. But I expect when you get the hang of being in charge and making all the decisions, that you won’t need us much. You just need to hire a good curator and staff who are good learners and have a passion for art and business. Once that happens, your life will get easier.

James: Thank you for this. I don’t know what to say. I need to go tell Lisa.