As an update, the same quest is now asking for 64 crossbows for a compensation total of 12,992. This must be tied to something else - player treasury total, clan rank, etc.
As of Beta 1.1.0
1) Currently, only the item type and quantity of item is mentioned in dialogue before accepting the mission. I think the quest should state the item desired, item quantity needed, and the contract payout before accepting the quest. This is hinted at by what they say you would...