“Amen to that,” said Parry, and then he put the coin away again. “But we are delaying the business of the evening. I fear that is my fault. Let us cut again. Ah, I partner you this time, colonel. Would you care to sit opposite me? I omitted to thank you, Mr. Hornblower, for your excellent partnership.”
“You are too kind, my lord,” said Hornblower, taking the chair at the admiral’s right.
The next rubber began and progressed silently to its close.
“I am glad to see that the cards have decided to be kind to you, Mr. Hornblower,” said Parry, “even though our honours have reduced your winnings. Fifteen shillings, I believe?”
“Thank you.” said Hornblower taking the money.
Bush remembered what Hornblower had said about being able to afford to lose three rubbers if he won the first two.
“Damned small stakes in my opinion, my lord,” said the colonel. “Must we play as low as this?”
“That is for the company to decide,” replied Parry. “I myself have no objection. Half a crown instead of a shilling? Let us ask Mr. Hornblower.”
Bush turned to look at Hornblower with renewed anxiety.
“As you will, my lord,” said Hornblower, with the most elaborate indifference.