"I don't care to learn," was Richard's firm reply. "I never gambled in my life, and I don't intend to begin now."
"Say, Norris, what do you want to bring such a fellow up here for?" asked one of the players, with a scowl. "We were just having a jolly good game, and don't care to have it spoilt."
"Oh, that's all right. I'm aware of that; but Mr. Dare is a new-comer to New York, and I'm only showing him around a bit."
"We don't want any one here who is going to give us away," put in another player. "Harrison, your cut."
"I'm quite sure Mr. Dare won't be so mean," said Norris. "Come, make yourself at home."
But during the last few minutes Richard had been doing some heavy thinking, and the conclusion of it all was that he had better get out as soon as possible. He had nothing in common with such a crowd, and to remain might place him in an awkward if not dangerous position.
"I thought you only wanted to get a book?" he said to Norris.
"So I did; but now we are up here we might as well stay awhile and have some fun. It's early yet."
"It's not early for me," responded Richard. "I promised to be back by nine o'clock, and it must be near that now. Just give me my hat."
For Norris had taken his guest's hat and placed it on a hook beside his own.