I can't wait to see the pictures, Carl.  
I have a feeling it would have been safe to bid quite a bit higher.  There is a chance that these trees are much more valuable to him than nursery trees ever would be.  These are HIS trees.
Cool either way!  I hope it works out well for you, him, and the trees.
love
nick
ps- I was recently taught by someone in the LA Urban Forestry Division that caliper is measured 6" above the trunk.  I wish this was more consistent!