A Tale of Deception

Four years later, after Peter’s business had opened, Mr. Joseph Preston Ellington, an extremely wealthy man, was sitting at a table in the Stonebridge County Club, off Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho, eating breakfast with his good friend and hunting partner, Mr. Vernon Quilleran.

  Over coffee and quality cigars, the men conversed with jovial banter, sharing family issues, and then drifting into the topic of business and investments.

  “J.P., speaking of money, have I told you how happy I am with P.M. Lawrence Investments? I’ve been receiving a healthy return from them for over three years, now,” he told his old friend.

  “That’s nice to hear, Vern, but who are they? What do you know about them?” asked Mr. Ellington.

  “They’re a young, up-and-coming firm, run by a Mr. Peter Lawrence. I looked into his background a while ago and I was impressed with his investment record. He’s one on-fire, hardworking financial analyst, with the instincts of a predator when it comes to choosing the right investment options. I’m giving him another large sum this week,” stated Vern confidently.

  “Are you sure you want to do that? I’d hesitant to move too much into a firm so new and in truth, Vern, so small,” replied J.P.

  “I understand, but I’ve examined this guy thoroughly. He has a great track record with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. From his quarterly reports, which are overseen by the auditing company of C.U. Banks, he’s averaging a good, solid return for his investors. Within the last five years, he’s amassed millions, has increased his staff to about twenty, and is bursting at the seams at his current location. I’ve even heard rumors he wants to merge with Fenway Accounting, which would allow him to diversify. I tell you J.P., he’s a hot commodity,” Vern stated positively.

  “Hum… ” the sound came thoughtfully from J.P. as he blew smoke from his cigar.

  “You know I’ve got a nose for this sort of thing,” continued Vern. “I can smell a good deal where there doesn’t seem to be one, and I’m good at sizing people up, too. This guy has a knack for spotting the golden ticket among the paper ones. He works hard, is intelligent, and I just plain like the way he thinks. Why don’t you check him out, for yourself?”

  “I guess it won’t hurt to look him over. I’ll make an appointment and let you know what I think,” replied J.P. Ellington.

 

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