Young Mr. Barter's Repentance From "Schwartz" by David Christie Murray

** "Young Mr. Barter's Repentance" by David Christie Murray unfolds in the late 1800s. It tells the story of Mr. Bommaney, a once-respected British merchant, whose world crumbles as he faces bankruptcy, forcing him to struggle with difficult emotions and immoral choices. The tale further introduces young Mr. Barter, a character soon wrapped up in ideas of temptation and ethical quandaries, particularly as Mr. Bommaney deals with the wreckage of his financial downfall. The book starts with a scene showing Mr. Bommaney in deep despair, alone in his office, overwhelmed by the reality of his financial ruin after long-term mismanagement. As he thinks about the impact of his impending bankruptcy and the sadness it will bring to his son, Phil, the mood turns even more somber. Mr. Barter's entrance adds more details to the plot; he gives a large sum of money to Mr. Bommaney, unaware of the trap of desire and moral corruption that surrounds it. This initial engagement points to the struggles of honesty and desperation that will determine both people as the story develops. **