CHAPTER XXXIV
GAMBLERS' OATHS
While the two men were settling the business at hand, Alison had stood by in silence, looking curiously from one to the other, a little bewildered, and also a little frightened by the singular turn of events. But as Dexter faced her, her head went up resolutely, and she mutely questioned him with her eyes.
"If you don't mind?" he asked with a smile.
"Why, no, not if you wish it," she replied.
"Please," he said. He placed a third stool at the table and laid the pack of cards before her. Then he coolly turned up the wick of the hanging lantern, so that the full light fell on the center of the board. Crill settled his bulk on a stool facing the fireplace, and Dexter slipped casually into the seat opposite.
The girl picked up the deck, and her slim hands were not quite steady as she started to shuffle the cards. "Ready?" she asked in a stifled voice.
"Let 'em go, lady," said the outlaw, and Dexter's fist clenched as he caught the leering glance across the table.
"Five apiece, isn't it?" Alison inquired without looking up.
"Five," the corporal said—"and one at a time."