When not in business, he was a pleasant, and, as some say, a witty companion.

He was not looked on as an ascetic, and did not despise those little pleasures which enable us to sustain life's tortuous journey.

He liked a good dinner, and had always a smile ready for a young and attractive face.

He was a widower, and all his love was concentrated on his daughter.

He did not keep a very extravagant establishment, but the report in the neighborhood was that Mademoiselle Flavia, the daughter of the eminent banker, would one day come into millions.