Wilbur didn't give Ed away to secure a contract, Ed asked Wilbur to give him away to the potential Client, so Ed could with the Clients Horse.
While the description would fit in a modern show, before the 90's, people wouldn't have given up a loved horse, just to secure a contract.
Mr. Ed is another fine example of how great a world we had, when money was NOT the key focus of life.
Definitely a feel good series to anyone over 55, that was there, did that, and longs for the day we become human again.
I highly recommend this series to everyone, and wonder what the children of today think of it. I know I never forgot "Hello, Willllburrr"