"they've been totally in control of the process until now and they've probably dragged their feet because they can (who knows, an even better developer might show up, right?)."
I don't care about the which-language-is-best-to-start-with debate that is being argued in full force here. If you want to rails, knock yourself out. If you want to JS, woo! JS!. I care a lot about seeing your potential employer as an antagonist. They have just indicated to you that they like you enough to invite you to join them. Negotiate, sure, but assume good faith. And the very idea that they were waiting for a better candidate who didn't show up undervalues you. YOU were the one that impressed them most. How well you code was only a part of their choice. They liked your personality best, too, and your honesty, and your dedication, and that indefinable other thing that's hard to quantify.
They are likely the good guys, and they see you the same way. Now go ask for a better salary, or more vacation, but don't assume the worst.
"they've been totally in control of the process until now and they've probably dragged their feet because they can (who knows, an even better developer might show up, right?)."
I don't care about the which-language-is-best-to-start-with debate that is being argued in full force here. If you want to rails, knock yourself out. If you want to JS, woo! JS!. I care a lot about seeing your potential employer as an antagonist. They have just indicated to you that they like you enough to invite you to join them. Negotiate, sure, but assume good faith. And the very idea that they were waiting for a better candidate who didn't show up undervalues you. YOU were the one that impressed them most. How well you code was only a part of their choice. They liked your personality best, too, and your honesty, and your dedication, and that indefinable other thing that's hard to quantify.
They are likely the good guys, and they see you the same way. Now go ask for a better salary, or more vacation, but don't assume the worst.