business, he valued most, that had procured him this preference;
and it was the head of the firm, the great financier, who had
himself accorded him such recognition.

The experience was so strange to him that it seemed like an
injustice to his friend. He told Alphonse nothing of the
occurrence; on the contrary, he proposed that they should apply
for two vacant places in the Credit Lyonnais.

Alphonse was quite willing, for he loved change, and the splendid
new banking establishment on the Boulevard seemed to him far more
attractive than the dark offices in the Rue Bergere. 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."