The Firm of Girdlestone

"The Firm of Girdlestone" by Arthur Conan Doyle is a tale of friendship and moral conflict set within the world of business. When John Harston, an old friend and devoted father, faces death from typhoid, he asks John Girdlestone, a merchant who made his money in Africa, to care for his daughter Kate. This request sets the stage for a narrative that probes the complexities of loyalty as it intersects with wealth and the harsh realities of the business world, embodied by the stern Ezra Girdlestone and the many employees who keep Girdlestone & Co. running. The story begins by showcasing the inner workings of Girdlestone & Co., highlighting themes of moral accountability and professional integrity as relationships and obligations are put to the test.