Not dreaming of what was to come, Richard accepted the invitation.
He found himself in a small room, well lighted. The air was heavy with tobacco smoke, and the fumes of liquor were not wanting. But what astonished him most was a group of five fellows seated at the center table, playing cards, with several piles of money in front of them.
"They are gambling!" he thought, with something like horror. "I wish
I was out of it."
"Gentlemen, my friend, Mr. Dare," said Earle Norris. "Come, sit down and make yourself at home," he added, slapping Richard on the shoulder.
CHAPTER XIX.
THE LAUREL CLUB.
Richard felt decidedly uncomfortable over the situation in which he now found himself. It was so unexpected—it had been so forced upon him that he did not know what to do.
"Come, take a hand in," repeated Earle Norris, offering him a chair at the table and at the same time removing his hat.
"Thank you, but I do not play cards," replied Richard coldly.
"Oh, you'll soon learn!" returned the shipping-clerk. "Come, sit down, and I'll give you a few points."