Building a Conglomerate in Another World

At Hargrave's office, the warm glow of the oil lamp cast long shadows across the dark mahogany desk. Mr. Hargrave sat behind it, leaning back in his chair with an air of authority. A folder rested on the desk, its edges crisp and fresh, bearing the neatly handwritten contract prepared by his assistant.

"So," Hargrave began, folding his hands over his stomach and regarding Matthew with a practiced smile. "I had my personal assistant draw up the contract that you and I are going to sign regarding the sale of the air brake system. This document outlines your willingness to transfer all design rights, technical know-how, and related materials to Hargrave Railway Company."

Hargrave slid the folder across the desk, the paper rustling slightly as it reached Matthew's side. "Read it over, take your time," he said, though the impatience lurking in his tone suggested he expected a prompt signature.

Matthew opened the folder, scanning the meticulously written clauses. Every detail was laid out: the transfer of intellectual property, the guarantee of payment upon signing, and the rights Hargrave would hold to modify and distribute the technology. It was all as he expected, and more importantly, the sum of fifty thousand florin was clearly stated.

"Everything looks in order," Matthew said, meeting Hargrave's gaze once more. "This is a fair representation of our agreement."

Hargrave's smile widened. "Excellent. You've proven yourself, Matthew. Not only as an engineer but as someone who understands the value of innovation. Few at your age would negotiate with such clarity."

Matthew allowed himself a small smile as he picked up the pen. "I am going to sign this now."

When he finished, he set the pen down and slid the folder back across the desk to Hargrave, who took it with barely concealed satisfaction. Hargrave's eyes gleamed as he glanced over the signature, his fingers drumming lightly on the table. 

"Well done, Matthew. Now, here is your cheque."

Hargrave handed him a cheque of 50 thousand florin.

Matthew grabbed it from Hargrave's hand and then stared at it momentarily.

"Thank you, Mr. Hargrave," he said, tucking the cheque carefully into the inner pocket of his coat. He hesitated for a moment before clearing his throat. "I do have a question, though. This is a significant sum, and I'm not familiar with the process. How do I go about cashing this?"

Hargrave leaned back in his chair, chuckling. "Ah, of course, dealing with such an amount can be daunting the first time around. You'll need to take this to a reputable bank. Given the sum, I'd recommend the Amsterdam Bank & Trust. They're well-equipped for large transactions and can guide you through the process of depositing or withdrawing the funds as you see fit."

"Thank you for the advice. I'll make arrangements with them. Now, what are you going to do with that money?"

"I am going to start my own company, Mr. Hargrave," Matthew announced.

"Hoh? What kind of business is it?" Hargave asked. 

"Well…it's related to transportation but it won't be in the railway industry because that would be very unwise to do so as there are already a lot of railway giants established in this country." 

"I see…if not railway then ships?" Hargrave guessed.

Matthew shook his head. "It's not on the sea either, it's going to be on land." 

"It seems to me that you are not willing to share with me your business idea. Are you scared that I might steal it?" Hargrave finished, a teasing glint in his eyes.

Matthew's smile was polite but guarded. "Not at all, Mr. Hargrave. It's just that the concept is still in its infancy, and I'd prefer to keep it close until I've had the chance to develop it further. You understand, don't you? The value of keeping certain cards close to your chest?"

Hargrave chuckled, nodding slowly. "Ah, yes, the cautious inventor. I suppose I can't blame you for wanting to protect your ideas, especially after what you've accomplished here. But be warned, Matthew, once you step out as an independent, competition won't be as forgiving as I've been."

"I appreciate the advice," Matthew replied. His tone was calm, but there was an unmistakable spark in his eyes. "I'm prepared for whatever comes my way."

Hargrave's smile faded slightly, a hint of calculation replacing his jovial demeanor. 

"I guess I'll take this as your resignation."

Matthew nodded, a sense of finality settling over him. "That's right, Mr. Hargrave. I'm grateful for the opportunity you've given me, but it's time for me to forge my own path."

"Well, I can't say I'm surprised. You've always had that restless spirit about you. But know this, Matthew—when you step out on your own, you're no longer under my protection."

"I understand," Matthew replied, his expression unwavering. "I'm ready for it."

A moment of silence passed before Hargrave rose from his chair, extending a hand across the desk. "Then I wish you the best, even if I don't entirely mean it," he said with a wry grin.

Matthew took his hand and shook it firmly. "Thank you, Mr. Hargrave.

With the cheque secured in his pocket, Matthew turned and walked out of the office. He has money now, and all have to do is to start the revolution of transportation he envisioned. But first, he needs to go to the bank to cash out the cheque and secure the funds needed for his ambitious plans.

The walk to Amsterdam Bank & Trust was brisk, with Matthew weaving through the busy streets filled with the clatter of horses' hooves and the rhythmic creak of wooden wheels. The imposing stone facade of the bank loomed ahead, it's tall, about four storeys tall.

Matthew stepped inside, greeted by the faint smell of ink and paper mixed with polished wood and leather. The interior was bustling with clerks shuffling between desks, customers discussing transactions, and the occasional clink of coin being counted at a teller's counter. A large, ornate chandelier cast a warm glow over the spacious hall.

Approaching the nearest clerk, Matthew cleared his throat. "Good morning. I'm here to cash a cheque."

The clerk, a middle-aged man with a meticulously groomed mustache and round spectacles, glanced up and nodded. "Of course, sir. Please follow me to one of our private counters."

Matthew followed the clerk to a polished desk where another bank employee sat, ledger open and pen poised. He handed over the cheque, careful not to crease it. The employee's eyes widened slightly as he read the amount, a brief pause betraying his surprise before he composed himself.

"Fifty thousand florin," the clerk muttered, adjusting his glasses and exchanging a quick glance with his colleague. "A significant sum, indeed. May I see your identification, sir?"

Matthew produced a small card with his name and the seal of Hargrave's Railway Company, which had served as his professional credential until now. The clerk examined it, nodding with approval before standing up and motioning to another banker behind a locked door.

"We will need a moment to verify this cheque, sir. Please bear with us," the clerk said.

Matthew waited, watching as the clerk conferred quietly with another senior-looking banker. Their serious expressions gradually shifted as they nodded, seemingly satisfied. The senior banker approached Matthew with a polite smile.

"Mr. Hesh, your cheque has been verified, and we will proceed with cashing it. How would you like to receive the funds? Would you prefer a portion in cash or a full deposit to an account with us?"

Matthew hesitated for a moment, considering his response. "I'd like to open an account here and have the full amount deposited. I plan to make several large purchases soon."

"Very well," the banker said, gesturing for a clerk to bring the necessary paperwork. "Please complete this form, and we will set up your account immediately."

Matthew signed the required documents, and within moments, he had an official account with the Amsterdam Bank & Trust, the significant sum of fifty thousand florin securely deposited.