"It must be some sort of a waiting-room," thought Hal. "I wonder who the fellow asleep in the chair is?"
He gave a slight cough, and the young man slowly opened his eyes.
"Did anybody call me?" he asked, in a heavy tone.
"Where is the playing-room, please?" asked Hal.
"Eh? playing-room?" repeated the young man. "Go right in the next room."
He pointed with his finger, and bowing, Hal did as directed.
The sight that met Hal's eyes as he opened the door filled the youth with wonder. He had often heard of such places, but he had never dreamed of them being as they are. He saw a long hall, brilliantly lighted. Crowded about the table, some standing and some sitting, were young men and old, all intent on the games that were going on.
The table was piled with money, which seemed to change hands rapidly, for the resort was a well-known one among club men.
"What do you make it?"
"A twenty, Charley."