Our conversation during dinner was desultory, but after the first bottle, Atkinson became communicative, and his history not only made me feel better inclined towards him, but afforded me another instance, as well as Carbonnell's, how often it is that those who would have done well, are first plundered, and then driven to desperation by the heartlessness of the world. The cases, however, had this difference, that Carbonnell had always contrived to keep his reputation above water, while that of Atkinson was gone, and never to be re-established. We had just finished our wine when a note was brought from Harcourt, informing me that he should send a friend the next morning for an explanation of my conduct. I handed it over to Atkinson. "My dear sir, I am at your service," replied he, "without you have anybody among your acquaintances whom you may prefer."
"Thank you," replied I, "Captain Atkinson; it cannot be in better hands."
"That is settled, then; and now where shall we go?"
"Wherever you please."
"Then I shall try if I can win a little money to-night; if you come you need not play—you can look on. It will serve to divert your thoughts, at all events."
I felt so anxious to avoid reflection, that I immediately accepted his offer, and, in a few minutes, we were in the well-lighted room, and in front of the rouge et noir table, covered with gold and bank notes. Atkinson did not commence his play immediately, but pricked the chances on a card as they ran. After half an hour he laid down his stakes, and was fortunate. I could no longer withstand the temptation, and I backed him; in less than an hour we both had won considerably.
"That is enough," said he to me, sweeping up his money; "we must not try the slippery dame too long."
I followed his example, and shortly afterwards we quitted the house. "I will walk home with you, Newland; never, if you can help it, especially if you have been a winner, leave a gaming house alone."
Going home, I asked Atkinson if he would come up; he did so, and then we examined our winnings. "I know mine," replied he, "within twenty pounds, for I always leave off at a certain point. I have three hundred pounds, and something more."
He had won three hundred and twenty-five pounds. I had won ninety pounds. As we sat over a glass of brandy and water, I inquired whether he was always fortunate. "No, of course I am not," replied Atkinson; "but on the whole, in the course of the year I am a winner of sufficient to support myself."