Page:Hugh Pendexter--Tiberius Smith.djvu/62

 all to his guest if he continued playing, rolled off the rug with a grunt of rage.

"‘I didn't know you gambled, Tib?' I gasped.

"The dear old chap's face actually blushed as he met my limpid gaze, and he defended: 'Never have since I was very young. Don't think I'm backsliding, Billy. I hate to do it, but it's the only show we have. But mind you, my lad, when once we're safely back at the Suet Pudding Club, don't you dare to tell the gang I have been cutting up here in these snowy wastes. I feel ashamed, as I've always tried to keep you from it, but I can't bear to see even a game of chance abused.'

"The idea of his apologizing to me for trying to save our two hides! 'Play for all you are worth, Tib,' I begged. 'Don't hesitate to hocus-pocus. If you see a card you hanker for, no matter where in the deck it is ensconced, just pluck it out for my sake.'

"‘I'd rather win fair, Billy,' he remonstrated. 'I wouldn't cheat to save myself, but I may if it will pull you on this side of the table.'

"‘Don't hesitate,' I implored, for I knew he could do more parlor-magic with the cards than most professionals. 'My giant has been palming cards right along. He took the last trick with a jiu-jitsu hold.'

"‘What!' gasped Tib. 'Can't even play a gentleman's game!' And he riffled the pasteboards in