The customer provided it.
The teller checked the system.
An appointment appeared under the foundation account.
The accompanying notes identified a large expected deposit that required additional verification and handling.
Everything looked consistent with the customer's explanation.
The teller looked up.
“I can help begin the process. We will need to verify the authorized representative and review the instrument according to our procedures.”
The woman smiled.
“That's exactly what I expected.”
The teller felt relieved.
Some customers became irritated when large deposits required additional steps.
This woman seemed entirely comfortable with the process.
She produced identification and account authorization documentation.
The teller followed the normal verification procedures.
The information matched the account records.
Then the customer opened a slim portfolio.
Inside was a check for $2.8 million.
The teller's eyes widened.
She had handled large transactions before.
But rarely one that size at the main counter.
She examined the document without making a conclusion about authenticity.
Then looked toward the customer.
“Thank you. Because of the amount and the type of instrument, I'll need to refer this for the appropriate review.”
The woman nodded.
“Of course.”
The teller reached for the internal telephone.
Before she could complete the request, the branch manager appeared.
She approached from the private banking corridor, looking irritated.
“What is taking so long?”
The teller turned.
“I'm assisting a foundation representative with a large deposit that requires review.”
The manager looked toward the customer.
Her expression changed.
She glanced at the gown.
The gold earrings.
The silver handbag.
Then the check.
“How large?”
“Two million eight hundred thousand dollars.”
The manager stared.
Then laughed.
Not loudly at first.
Just a short, disbelieving sound.
She reached for the instrument.
“Let me see that.”
The teller hesitated.
“Ma'am, I've already begun the verification workflow.”