He heard me with
silent attention.
"I fear," I concluded, "therefore, that it is impossible for me to be
of any assistance to your Excellency."
He nodded, and gave a slight sigh. Then, with an air of closing the
subject, he said:
"I suppose the directors are past reason. Help yourself to a brandy
and soda."
"Allow me to mix one for you, sir," I answered.
While I was preparing our beverages he remained silent. When I had sat
down again he said:
"You occupy a very responsible position here for so young a man, Mr.
Martin--not beyond your merits, I am sure."
I bowed.
"They leave you a pretty free hand, don't they?"
I replied that as far as routine business went I did much as seemed
good in my own eyes.
"Routine business? including investments, for instance?" he asked.
"Yes," said I; "investments in the ordinary course of
business--discounting bills and putting money out on loan and mortgage
over here. I place the money, and merely notify the people at home of
what I have done."
"A most proper confidence to repose in you," the President was good
enough say. "Confidence is the life of business; you must trust a man.
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