"'Very well, then,' continued de Morin, in the same gracious tone, 'I take advantage of the choice, and I'll bet you that you do not jump into the sea now at once in my presence.'
"'I'll bet you I do,' I replied.
"'A thousand francs on it,' said de Morin.
"'Done!' said I.
"I lighted a cigar very quietly, and stretched myself on a seat.
"'Holloa!' cried my adversary, 'what are you doing?'
"'Resting, you perceive.'
"'And the bet?'
"'Well; I've lost it.'
"'Then why did you take it?'