by David Hunter
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The bank teller followed bank regulations by calling the manager of the branch over. Handling this much cash required his presence.
Once the requisite signature cards were co-signed by each man, they went to the office of a barrister who came highly recommended by the bank manager. The lawyer spoke excellent British-style English, having received some of his education in Oxford. His office reflected his Anglophile tastes, right down to the tea and crumpets.
The lawyer spoke throughout their meeting first in English, then in Arabic - sometimes performing translation services between Karim and Jeff. By the end of the meeting Karim understood exactly how their partnership was to function, having everything in writing and legally documented for everybody's sake.
The lawyer was also retained to review the land purchase documents and assure that all papers were filed properly.