The Banker and the Bear: The Story of a Corner in Lard

“The Banker and the Bear: The Story of a Corner in Lard” by Henry Kitchell Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. It appears to center on the world of finance and business intrigue, focusing on family dynamics, ambition, and market speculation. The main character is John Bagsbury, a serious and driven banker seeking to modernize and control his father's old and conservative savings bank, set against a backdrop of personal relationships and rivalries among financiers. The opening of the novel introduces the Bagsbury family and their banking legacy, revealing the emotional rifts and ambitions that drive the characters. We learn about John’s difficult relationship with his father, his departure to another bank under the influence of the speculator Melville Sponley, and his eventual return to fight for control of the family’s institution after his father’s death. The narrative then broadens to include Dick Haselridge, John’s niece, whose arrival brings new perspectives and emotional resonance to the family. Initial chapters depict John’s struggles against a restrictive will, the maneuverings required to gain control of the bank, and the interconnected personal and professional lives of those around him. The story sets the stage for high-stakes business drama, introducing the pivotal figures and motives that will drive the coming conflicts.