So they
removed to the Credit Lyonnais on the first of May. But as they
were in the chief's office taking their leave, the old banker said
to Charles, when Alphonse had gone out (Alphonse always took
precedence of Charles), "Sentiment won't do for a business man."
From that day forward a change went on in Charles. He not only
worked as industriously and conscientiously as before, but
developed such energy and such an amazing faculty for labor as
soon attracted to him the attention of his superiors. That he was
far ahead of his friend in business capacity was soon manifest;
but every time he received a new mark of recognition he had a
struggle with himself. For a long time, every advancement brought
with it a certain qualm of conscience; and yet he worked on with
restless ardor.
One day Alphonse said, in his light, frank way: "You are really a
smart fellow, Charlie! You're getting ahead of everybody, young
and old--not to mention me. I'm quite proud of you."
Charles felt ashamed. He had been thinking that Alphonse must feel
wounded at being left on one side, and now he learned that his
friend not only did not grudge him his advancement, but was even
proud of him. By degrees his conscience was lulled to rest, and
his solid worth was more and more appreciated.
But if he was in reality the more capable, how came it that he was
so entirely ignored in society, while Alphonse remained
everybody's darling? The very promotions and marks of appreciation
which he had won for himself by hard work were accorded him in a
dry, business manner; while every one, from the directors to the
messengers, had a friendly word or a merry greeting for Alphonse.
Pages:
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
100