It was evidently Marmosa’s purpose to attract a high-class clientele, for the diners were fashionable persons, many of whom appeared to be of the elite.
There were comparatively few persons on the balcony, and Harry noticed that no one approached the hidden spot behind the corner pillar.
It was after eight o’clock before Harry had completed his carefully chosen meal, and by that time, the crowd below had thinned out considerably. Marmosa had not returned, so Harry lighted a cigar, and puffed away in enjoyment, still watching from the balcony.
Half an hour later, he noticed that newcomers were entering the place, and he realized immediately that it was from these that the patrons of the gambling den would be gained. Marmosa had said nothing about the opening time of the gambling house, but Harry now conjectured that nine o’clock would be about the earliest.
A thin, sallow man entered the restaurant, and walked upstairs. Harry saw him disappear behind the pillar that obscured Marmosa’s office.
The man did not return immediately, so Harry again looked from the balcony, until he became conscious that some one was approaching his table, and he turned quickly to encounter Frank Marmosa and the sallow man who had arrived a short while before.
“Meet Joe le Blanc,” said Marmosa genially. “This is Harry Vincent, Joe.”
The sallow man shook hands with Harry, and sat beside him at the table.
“Vincent is a friend of Barutti,” explained Marmosa. “You know Barutti — you’ve met him in New York.”
Le Blanc nodded. Then Marmosa went away.