Quiet everyone. This morning’s lower 4^th tutorial continues with more examination of the great banking dynasties of Europe.

Sometimes the subject matter can prove quite salacious so I will not tolerate any ribaldry or giggling at the back of the class. Woe betide those who try to play the fool.

Last week, we dealt with the de’ Medicis, that remarkable Florentine dynasty which laid the grounds for much of modern money and credit systems. We touched on the latter’...