Knowing Goudar to be a greater rascal than Medini, I did not believe a word he said; and I waited impatiently for the end of the game.
At one o’clock it was all over. The lucky punter went off with his pockets full of gold, and Medini, affecting high spirits, which were very much out of place, swore his victory should cost him dear.
“Will you kindly give me my two hundred ounces,” said I, “for, of course, Goudar told you that I was out of it?”
“I confess myself indebted to you for that amount, as you absolutely insist, but pray tell me why you refuse to be interested in the bank when I am dealing.”
“Because I have no confidence in your luck.”
“You must see that your words are capable of a very unpleasant interpretation.”
“I can’t prevent your interpreting my words as you please, but I have a right to my own opinion. I want my two hundred ounces, and I am quite willing to leave you any moneys you propose to make out of the conqueror of to-night. You must make your arrangements with M. Goudar, and by noon to-morrow, you, M. Goudar, will bring me that sum.”
“I can’t remit you the money till the count gives it me, for I haven’t got any money.”
“I am sure you will have some money by twelve o’clock to-morrow morning. Goodnight.”
I would not listen to any of their swindling arguments, and went home without the slightest doubt that they were trying to cheat me. I resolved to wash my hands of the whole gang as soon as I had got my money back by fair means or foul.