César Ritz’s* originality and creativity were matched only by his driving ambition and a flair for self-promotion. In December 1889, Ritz arrived to take over. He immediately brought in his own team. There was already the brilliant maître d’hôtel, François Rinjoux from Monte Carlo. Now Echenard became the head of the new Ritz Relief Army in October 1889 at a salary of £500 per year, assisted by William Autor; the deeply devoted Agostini took up the important position of cashier. A Mr Elles took over as restaurant manager. The last piece of the jigsaw slotted into place in March 1890, when Ritz persuaded his friend, Auguste Escoffier, to come and take over the ranges at The Savoy.