Their instincts about the situation's gravity proved correct. The moment after Morrel had entered his office with Coclès, Julie saw the accountant emerge pale and trembling, his features betraying complete devastation. She would have questioned him as he passed, but the loyal employee hurried downstairs with unusual haste, raising his hands heavenward and exclaiming, "Oh, Miss Julie! What a terrible disaster! Who could have imagined it!"
Moments later, Julie watched him return upstairs carrying several heavy ledgers, a portfolio, and a money bag.
Morrel examined the books, opened the portfolio, and counted the cash. His total assets amounted to 6,000-8,000 francs, with receivables due by the 5th totaling 4,000-5,000 francs. Even in the most optimistic scenario, this gave him 14,000 francs to cover debts of 287,500 francs. He didn't even have enough for a partial settlement offer.
