I met an old friend and former colleague last Friday. He’s still an investment banker working in ECM but has moved up the ladder over the years. After a few whiskeys he regaled me with tales of his juniors. Smart men and women, no doubt — but not the most care-free bunch.
It was the end of a week of deal flow before the summer slowdown really kicks off, so he and his team had to pull a few all-nighters at the office. It was a relief on Friday to simply sit and chat with the youngsters about their weekend plans.
Were they planning trips to Macau? Free-flow at The Grill? The typical weekend junks that have enthralled newcomers for years? Apparently not. One of his much younger colleagues had a different idea of fun over the weekend — his highlight was to take his dog out for a long overdue walk.
Far be it from me to come between a man and his dog. A daily constitutional with a loving hound is good for the soul, and prepares a man for a day with decidedly less loyal chums. But unless you’re Cesar Millan, it should not be the highlight.
Perhaps our young friend could learn to bring his best friend with him on more enjoyable excursions. Dachshunds in Duddells? Chihuahuas in The Chinnery? Labradors on Lockhart Road?
What could possibly go wrong?