The Comfort LetterThe Comfort Letter is back in print because the problems it illustrates--problems that turn up in financial statements of huge corporations, problems the accountants, problems for the lawyers--are now in the headlines every day. Ordway Smith is no specialist in these matters. Ordway Smith is a popular Philadelphia Gentleman with a handsome wife, two beautiful children--and the unforgettable first love of his youth. He is a "rainmaker" partner in Conyers & Dean, the oldest and biggest firm in town. His job is bringing in business. He has been doing that very well, through his club memberships, directorships, extensive family connections, --and now through his biggest client Charlie Conroy, the gardener's son who fought his way up to become Chairman of a huge international conglomerate. The intricate night-and day work on Conroy's deals has always been done by Conyers & Deans brilliant corporate "workhorse" lawyers, but when their chief is suddenly put out of action by illness, Ordway Smith finds himself flying around the country in charge of Charlie Conroy's complicated and increasingly risky acquisitions. The Comfort Letter explains the stories behind today's scandals, and shows the brutal pressures under which the players have to do their jobs. |
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