The calling is hereditary; the credit of the bank descends from father to son: this inherited wealth soon begins inherited refinement.

Banking is a watchful, but not a laborious trade.

A banker, even in large business, can feel pretty sure that all his transactions are sound, and yet have much spare mind.

A certain part of his time, and a considerable part of his thoughts, he can readily devote to other pursuits.

And a London banker can also have the most intellectual society in the world if he chooses it.