“What makes you ask that question?”
“Faith, I don’t know why I made the inquiry. I was thinking if you had any one to share your troubles.”
“No, I have not, and what’s more, I dont want anyone to share my misery. It’s hard lines for one; it would be doubly hard if there were two doomed to the misery I have had to endure.”
“You are quite right, my friend, it would.”
The gipsy regarded the speaker with another furtive glance.
“By the way, you are not getting on. Let me mix you another glass—the night is cold, and drinking in moderation is beneficial. I am not an advocate for total abstinence.”
“Nor am I,” observed Rawton, with a laugh, “but of late I have been compelled to be a total abstainer.”
“Another glass and a cigar?”
“You are very kind, sir, I’m sure. I won’t refuse, since you are so pressing.”
The grog was mixed, and the gipsy lighted a cigar of the first quality.