Chapter 11

From the street view of the Larkin Soap Company, it is a cold winter day in the early 1900's. Traffic is mostly horse-drawn carriage and the style of dress is distinctly Late Victorian. Two of the pedestrians walking near the corner store are the younger Kraft and Campbell. They barely pause in their animated conversation to enter the shop.

Once inside, they both greet Larkin's head clerk, Sebastian. Then they resume their discussion as they make their way to the small back room which is the main (and only) office of the Bedford Falls Building and Loan.

The dynamic duo burst into the 10' x 12' room, continuing their heated exchange. August insists, "No, no. Not irresponsible! More complicated, perhaps but…"

Thomas counters with, "You have your practice, your family, the Building and Loan. And you want to take on additional challenges? I'd advise caution!"

August responds, "But you must admit, it is a goal that can be accomplished!"

The two realize suddenly that they have interrupted a business meeting between Peter and a potential customer. Peter glares at the now silent and embarrassed pair. Campbell finds a chair amid the drawers, bookcases and paper-laden tables and humbly takes a seat.

Peter picks up from where his presentation was interrupted, "Yes, besides providing another way for you to invest, our institution provides you with a way of building our community, helping your neighbors form solid roots...we look forward to doing business with you."

The customer thanks Peter and exits.

August says, "Still scaring away prospects, I see."

Peter returns to his desk and begins writing, "We've had this discussion. You can't just distribute credit without providing guidance and education."

"Pour me another cup of wisdom, bartender"

"I also answer to 'babysitter' these days. If you're here about the financial stability of your creation, you needn't worry. I'm losing money hand over fist."

Thomas says "Without help? Impressive!"

"On the contrary, our advertising manager is asking for a raise."

August looks perplexed, "Advertising?"

Peter points to the small window that offers a view of Grant Avenue. Thomas and August both converge at the window. Just outside, Bill walks the street, cheerfully greeting people and handing out flyers. Over his shoulders hangs a sandwich board advertising the Bedford Falls Building and Loan with the offer "Own Your Own Home", and on his head, worn like a hat is miniature model house.

August turns to leave and quips, "I had no idea that Craig's has a sale! Say, Doc, we should stop by there on the way to the County Court House."

Thomas says, "Not so fast, August. Peter is a card-carrying member of the teeming masses, let's get his opinion.

"I don't think..."

Peter asks warily, "What is this about?"

Thomas replies, "August has political aspirations."

At just that moment, there is a knock on the door. Peter answers, and greets a couple. "Good day, Mr. and Mrs. Abel, please have a seat by the window."

Campbell waits for Peter's response, "Well, what do you think of that?"

Peter gestures they should leave, "Fine. Fine. Good luck! Now, will the two of you please do your aspirating elsewhere?"

Thomas insists, "But, Peter, this concerns you!"

Peter, while pushing his mentors out the door, says, "I am concerned! Whatever you have might be catching! Now go!"

Peter turns to the couple, "So you have reviewed the documents. What questions do you have for me?"