And he had helped establish the hotel's original service philosophy.
But after a complicated business transition, Arthur had disappeared from public life.
The new ownership group had rarely mentioned him.
Most younger employees knew nothing about his existence.
Emily looked up.
"Mr. Bennett, I'm so sorry."
Arthur smiled.
"There's no need to apologize."
"Why didn't you tell me who you were?"
Arthur glanced at the old card.
"I thought the card would be enough."
Emily felt embarrassed.
She had spent several minutes questioning an elderly man who had helped create the hotel where she worked.
"Please, sir. Let me contact the general manager."
Arthur nodded.
"Thank you."
Emily picked up the telephone.
Her hands were trembling slightly.
She dialed the manager's private extension.
"Mr. Reynolds? I'm sorry to interrupt you."
A man's voice answered.
"What is it, Emily?"
"I'm at the main reception."
"And?"
"There's a gentleman here asking to see you."
"Does he have an appointment?"
"No, sir. But I believe you need to come downstairs."
"Why?"
Emily looked at Arthur.
Then she said:
"His name is Arthur Bennett."
Silence.
The manager did not answer immediately.
Then his voice changed.
"Did you say Arthur Bennett?"
"Yes, sir."
"Stay with him. Don't let him leave."
Emily looked surprised.
"Of course."
The manager ended the call.
Within seconds, the lobby began to feel different.
CHAPTER 4: THE GENERAL MANAGER ARRIVES
The general manager of the Grand Aurelia was Robert Reynolds.
He was fifty-eight years old and had spent nearly thirty years in luxury hospitality.
He was known for his strict management style.
He rarely left his office unless something important required his attention.
But when he heard Arthur Bennett's name, he immediately stood up.
He walked quickly through the private corridor.
As he approached reception, he saw the elderly man.
Robert stopped.
For several seconds, he simply stared.
Then he hurried forward.
"Mr. Bennett?"
Arthur smiled.
"Hello, Robert."
The general manager's eyes filled with emotion.
"I can't believe it."
Arthur extended his hand.
"How have you been?"
Robert shook it with both hands.
"I should be asking you that."
He looked at Arthur's clothes.
Then at the backpack.
Then at the plastic bag.
His expression became concerned.
"Why didn't you tell us you were coming?"
Arthur chuckled.
"I wanted to see the place without making a big announcement."
Robert shook his head.
"Sir, you could have called me personally."
"I know."
"You could have sent a message."
"I know."
"You could have arrived in a car."
Arthur smiled.
"I suppose I could have."
Robert turned toward Emily.
"Why is Mr. Bennett standing here?"
Emily lowered her eyes.
"I'm sorry, sir. I didn't recognize him immediately."
Robert looked at her.
Then he turned back toward Arthur.
"Please forgive us."
Arthur waved his hand.
"Don't make a big deal out of it."
Robert immediately called for assistance.
"Lucas!"
The young bell attendant approached.
"Yes, Mr. Reynolds?"
"Please take Mr. Bennett's bags."
Lucas stepped forward.
"Of course, sir."
He carefully accepted the backpack.
Then he reached for the plastic bag.
Arthur hesitated.
"Be careful with that one."
Lucas smiled.
"Certainly."
Robert looked toward the elevator.
"Mr. Bennett, please come with me. Your old suite is available."
Arthur shook his head.
"Not yet."
Robert looked surprised.
"Not yet?"
"I would like to see the hotel first."
Robert nodded.
"Of course."
Arthur glanced toward the reception desk.
"May I ask you something?"
"Anything, sir."
"Do you still have the original guest book?"
Robert smiled.
"We do."
"Good."
Arthur looked around the lobby.
"I would like to read a few names."
CHAPTER 5: THE HOTEL THAT MONEY BUILT