Alfred de Rosann by G.W.M. Reynolds — page 20: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

Alfred de Rosann. 11 of his affairs, ‘*‘Should the result be satisfactory,” said Alfred to himself, ‘‘ we will then discourse on the possibility of au associa- tion together. Our two establishments blended into one, and conducted by La Motte as the managing partner, cannot fail of ex- periencing a signal success; and in so doing, I shall not only fulfil the wishes of my father, but shall consult my own tastes at the same time. La Motte has the reputation of an honest merchant; he is not rich—but he is persevering—and that is the essential point.”’ Pleased with his idea, he instantly put the scheme into execution ; and M. La Motte acceded to our hero’s request, after having started a few obstacles, that were easily overruled. The examination com- menced forthwith ; La Motte was not a man to neglect an affair which he saw would eventually turn to his own advantage; and he shortly completed a most minute scrutiny into all the books and accounts that had been kept since the demise of De Rosann’s father. The result was not very creditable to the individuals who had been left to con- duct the affairs while Alfred diverted himself elsewhere. Dreadful mismanagement had considerably involved the credit of the house, and had occasioned immense losses. But as the old man, who offered De Rosann the seasonable advice which was the origin of the present investigation, had prophesied, it was not too late to remedy the evils caused by neglect and indifference. Alfred gave La Motte a carte blanche to act as he chose; and the first step which that gentleman took towards ameliorating the condition of the business was to dis- charge all the old clerks, and put others im their places. A month was sufficient to demonstrate the efficacy of this step: the new administration worked miracles in favour of De Rosann; the receipts of the house nearly doubled ; its connexions were extended ; new correspondents transmitted their orders from all quarters; and the credit of the establishment was saved. Alfred did not fail to ex- press his entire satisfaction at these prosperous reforms, and M. La Motte again talked of the mutual advantages to be derived from a partnership, while De Rosann listened with attention. The result of their deliberations was, that in a few days the necessary documents were drawn up, signed, and published in the Gazette des Tribunauzx and the Petites Affiches.* It was about this time that De Rosann became acquainted with Miss Clayton. The match, as we before said, appeared eligible in every point of view; and when a modest avowal ‘‘ that the addresses of Alfred were not displeasing to her’? was wrung from the blushing Eloise, the consent of the mother and uncle was speedily obtained. De Rosann was now the happiest of human beings: he was the chief partner in a substantial business—had no trouble in directing the affairs of the establishment—drew cheques upon his own cashier whenever he required money—and was engaged to the most beautiful girl that had ever been seen in the fashionable circles of the French metropolis. His friends felicitated him upon his success—the old entleman, who gave him good advice on a former occasion, applauded im for the readiness he exemplified in following it—and La Motte All partnerships, formed in France, must be advertised in these two journals, according to the law. COnicbooolks (GO)