This is a great article about how deals at this level get done. I hope it does not get buried.
Agreed. This is an unprecedented level of detail compared to the snippets and vague "sources say" rumors you hear otherwise. Probably intentionally leaked by one or both of the parties, but can't imagine why.
Well it's all told from Microsoft's perspective so they are the prime candidate. It also supports the narrative that they wanted to buy Nokia, rather than Nokia threatening to go Android or Bankrupt to force the sale.
Kara Swisher and AllthingsD have very good sources. They get info that no other tech journalists get. So, I would assert that this article should be taken at close to face value.