Business: Fair View

We have audited the books and accounts of John Doe, Inc. and we certify that the accompanying Balance Sheet and Profit & Loss Statement are correct and, in our opinion, exhibit a fair view of the corporation's affairs.

Auditors' certificates like the foregoing are appended to the financial reports of almost every big U. S. corporation. Contrary to popular belief, accounting is not an exact science. Charges, reserves, write-offs, appraisals, etc. are matters of opinion. Though profits or losses are calculated to the last digit, even the smartest auditor cannot predict the precise...

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