The true-life story described in this book took place in early 19th century London. It is one of greed; conspiracy and betrayal. It relates to a man known as John Courtoy. During his lifetime John became one of the richest men in England. Remarkably he amassed his fortune while working as a humble wig-maker. He achieved his wealth through a number of activities in addition to those of his chosen occupation. Initially he developed an employment registry; possibly the first of its kind in England. Using the money derived from this activity; he then became a prodigious money-lender; catering largely to the needs of the aristocracy; gentry and merchants. As his fortune grew; he proved to be a wily investor. He was also a renowned miser. John Courtoy was born Nicolas Jacquinet in 1729; in the town of Jussey; France. He adopted the name of John Courtoy when he fled to England in 1751. This was allegedly after the discovery of an affair with his married half-sister. When he eventually died in 1818 he was 89 years of age. Reports suggest that during the final years of his life he was suffering from dementia; a condition that became progressively worse toward the end. During this time two Wills were made; one in 1810; the other in 1814. The second Will was made when his mental health had allegedly deteriorated significantly. This raised many questions as to the Will’s validity. Maureen Sayers; who provides this account of John Courtoy’s last days; raises a number of questions concerning the final destination of his fortune. Central to her interpretation is the possibility that his Last Will and Testament of 1814 was fraudulently compiled. If we accept Maureen’s account; his estate worth £19 million in today’s money; possibly ended up in the wrong hands.
#4895805 in Books 1988-07Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.50 x 6.00 x 1.50l; #File Name: 0944413110439 pages
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