have on board; and in view to satisfy
the curious, tell them that it is probable that the ship will take
in molasses, rice, and sugar, if the price of that produce is very
low, adding that the whole will depend on the success in selling
the small Liverpool cargo. The consignees of said cargo should
follow the same line of conduct, and if properly attended to by
yourself and them, I am convinced that the cargo of coffee can be
purchased ten per cent. cheaper than it would be if it is publicly
known there is a quantity of Spanish dollars on board, besides a
valuable cargo of British goods intended to be invested in coffee
for Stephen Girard, of Philadelphia.

During my long commercial experience, I have noticed that no
advantage results from telling one's business to others, except to
create jealousy or competitors when we are fortunate, and to
gratify our enemies when otherwise.

If my remarks are correct, I have no doubt they will show you the
necessity of being silent, and to attend with activity,
perseverance, and modesty, to the interests of your employer.

As my letters of instruction embrace several interesting objects, I
request you to peruse them in rotation, when at sea in fine
climates, during your voyage to Batavia, and to take correct
extracts, so as to render yourself master of the most essential
parts. I conclude by directing your attention to your health and
that of your crew.

I am yours, respectfully,

STEPHEN GIRARD.

Mr. Girard was not only rigidly precise in his instructions, but he
permitted no departure from them. He regarded it as dangerous to allow
discretion to any one in the execution of _his_ plans. Where a deviation
from his instructions might cause success in one case, it would cause
loss in ninety-nine others. It was understood among all his employes
that a rigid obedience to orders, in even the most trifling particulars,
was expected, and would be exacted. If loss came under such
circumstances, the merchant assumed the entire responsibility for it.

Upon one occasion one of his best captains was instructed to purchase
his cargo of teas at a certain port. Upon reaching home he was summoned
by the merchant to his presence.

"Captain ----," said Mr. Girard, sternly, "your instructions required
you to purchase your cargo at ----."

"That is true, Mr. Girard,"