Jean Marin has always been diligent. Not just in his studies but in his job as a handyman too. He is by no means used to luxury. When he lands a government job, it's like a dream come true. Problems arise, however, and his resilience is truly tested. 'The Patron' is a short piece of satire exploring the aspirations of a small but energetic man striving to find peace both within his life and within himself. Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893) was a French writer. Famed for being a master of the French short story, he also wrote travel books and occasionally dabbled in poetry. His stories mainly focus on the relationships between men and women sitting at crossroads in their lives - whether personal or professional. His dramatic flair is largely influenced by French novelist Gustave Flaubert and is perfect for fans of Anton Chekhov's short stories. The most notable of the 300 short stories that he wrote include 'Bel Ami', 'Une Vie', and 'The Dumpling'.