Country Banks.

Cromwell Argus, Volume IV, Issue 189, 24 June 1873, Page 7

Country Banks.

Country banking business in Victoria is thus described by the Melbourne Leaders contributor, “ Atticus”;—lt is often a matter of consideration with me if the country branches of the metropolitan banks are self-supporting, or if their existence is but an advertisement for the head office. A story told mo the other day goes far to lead me to the latter conclusion. A friend, being on a visit to a western district, strolled into the local bank, and asked for change for a <£l note. “ Certainly,” said the manager, “ pray take a seat.” Somewhat astonished, ray friend took a seat in front of the counter, while the manager, loaning his elbows on the polished cedar, {Surveyed his customer with curiosity. Booing a pipe in the visitor’s hand, the offer of tabacco was made and accepted. A solemn silence ensued, which lasted for a few minutes. My friend got up, when the manager in serious tones said, Will you stay and lunch 1” to which the answer, “I don’t mind if I do,” was given. The lunch passed off agreeably, and when the two had eaten and talked to their hearts’ content, they vacated the table, and, repair iug to the bank, the change for the note was given to my friend. After a parting shake of the hand, he ventured to observe that there did not seem much business stirring. “ No,” returned the bank official j “ this is the best stroke of business I have done for some day ft,”