The silence was even more pronounced as Lord Hastings drew his second card and slowly held it up so that all might see.
It was the king of spades.
“Pretty close,” he said quietly.
“But not close enough,” said Jack with a laugh. “I believe I can do better myself.”
Quickly he stretched forth a steady hand and drew a card, which he threw down upon the table, face up.
A gasp went round the circle of faces.
The card was the ace of spades.
Jack turned to Lord Hastings with a faint smile.
“You see,” he said steadily. “I was sure I could beat you.”
When Jack drew the fatal card, Frank stared at it as though dumbfounded, and for a moment was unable to speak. Then he rushed upon his friend, and threw his arms about him.