The term 'Prelude to a Deal, Perhaps' can be solved by the four-letter word 'ante'. An ante is a stake or contribution made by each player in a card game before the cards are dealt. It is usually a small amount of money that is used to create a pot for the winner of the game. Antes are also used in other types of negotiations, such as business deals, to signify a commitment to the process and to show good faith.