The date is March 25th, 885. In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. A scene was unfolding in the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies. A grand opening of their new office building.
As Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen stood in front of their newly built eight-story office building, they couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The modernism style structure towered over them, a testament to their vision and hard work.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was set to begin in just a few moments, and visitors from around the country and the world had gathered to witness the event. Architects, painters, and other prominent figures in the art world mingled with investors, businesspeople, and local residents, all eager to see the grand opening of this impressive new building.
Poul and Jonathan stepped forward to address the crowd, their voices echoing through the sound system.
"Good afternoon, esteemed guests," Poul began, his voice ringing through the air, "On behalf of Axelsen & Nielsen Companies, it is our great pleasure to welcome you all to the grand opening of our new office building. Today marks a milestone achievement for our company, and we are honored to share this momentous occasion with all of you."
Jonathan stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with pride. "This building is more than just bricks and steel. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. When we first started this project, many doubted us. But we refused to be deterred. We believed in our vision and we never gave up."
Poul nodded in agreement. "It has been a long and challenging journey, but we are proud to say that we have successfully completed this project. This building is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation."
Jonathan continued, "And as we stand here today, we remember our humble beginnings. Our office was once a modest two-story house, nothing compared to the grand mansions and palaces of other industrialists. But we refused to be content with mediocrity. We knew we could do better, and we did. We grew from nothing to a company that is making a mark in history."
Poul and Jonathan exchanged a proud smile.
"Thank you for being a part of this special moment," Poul concluded, "We hope you enjoy exploring our new building."
As the two men finished speaking, the crowd burst into applause. Poul and Jonathan exchanged smiles again and then stepped forward to cut the ribbon, officially opening the building to the public.
The visitors made their way inside, admiring the sleek lines and innovative design of the interior spaces. Some of them took photos with their daguerreotype, while others simply marveled at the beauty of the building.
Throughout the day, Poul and Jonathan gave tours of the building, explaining the design choices and construction techniques that had been used. They answered questions from curious visitors and accepted congratulations from well-wishers.
After the tour, the visitors were ushered into a spacious hall on the ground floor where tables had been set up with an array of delectable food and drinks. The smell of fresh bread, roasted meats, and sweet desserts wafted through the air, making their mouths water.
Poul and Jonathan made their way around the room, greeting guests and making small talk. They were thrilled to see so many people enjoying the fruits of their labor. The room was abuzz with conversation, and the clinking of glasses could be heard as people toasted to the success of the new building and Axelsen & Nielsen Companies.
The guests filled their plates with food and found their way to tables, chatting and laughing as they savored the delicious dishes. There were platters of smoked salmon, roasted chicken, and grilled vegetables, along with bowls of fresh fruit, cheeses, and artisan bread. The desserts were equally impressive, with cakes, pastries, and tarts that looked almost too beautiful to eat.
As they ate, Poul and Jonathan made their way around the room, stopping to chat with different groups of guests. One of the guests was John Morgan, one of the first investors and a person part of their success.
"Mr. Morgan, I am so glad that you can come."
"Well, you two are making me huge money from air brakes, of course it's only natural that I'd come," Morgan said.
"I see that you didn't bring your family with you," Jonathan asked.
"Well, they are staying at Newport, mingling with the high class. My daughter would love to come but her mother insisted that she stay with her," Morgan explained.
"I hope there is no hard feeling between us, Mr. Morgan. You know, the result of the court."
Morgan waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry about it. Russell filed a lawsuit and he lost. That's just what it is. Though I'm a bit disappointed as to why you didn't approach me for funding."
"Well, I think that's our bad back then," Poul chuckled.
"Can I still invest?" Morgan asked. "I see that your system is better than Russell. Your maintenance and cost of operations are cheaper compared to him. Your bulb glows brighter and your electricity can travel farther than his. Not to mention the fact that you have a working electric motor, which is being sought-after by factory owners across and around the world."
Poul and Jonathan hummed as he pondered his proposal.
"We are expanding to twelve states and your investment would surely help us achieve that goal," Poul finally replied.
Morgan nodded. "Just tell me how much money you need and I will have my people draw up the paperwork and send it to you."
"Wouldn't Mr. Russell be upset that you are investing your money in his competitor? What's more, you also invested a huge sum of money to his company, wouldn't that be a conflict of interest?" Jonathan asked.
Morgan chuckled. "I'm a businessman, and I invest in companies that I believe will make me money. And right now, it looks like your company is the one that's going to bring in the most returns. As for the money I invested in his company, I see it as diversifying my investments. It's always good to have options," Morgan replied with a smirk.
Poul and Jonathan chuckled at the response, knowing that Morgan was a shrewd businessman who always looked out for his own interests.
"Can you do 1.5 million?" Jonathan asked, looking at Poul for confirmation.
Poul nodded in agreement. "Yes, that would be a great help. With that amount, we can increase our production and marketing efforts in the new states we're planning to expand to."
"Consider it done," Morgan said, raising his glass of wine.
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