Their business was, to second and assist the manœuvres of their master and chief.
The severity of the attack was overcome, and Andréas appeared to be approaching convalescence.
To amuse the invalid, his two soi-disant nephews, and his friend, used to play at cards, at a table placed close beside his bed.
The game was animated, and the gold coins were rolling about on the floor. They were so rich in this family!
"I say, doctor," exclaimed Andréas one evening, "I think a game of cards would do me good, and go far to restore me. You have a lucky face; will you do me the kindness to hold a hand of cards at écarté for me? I stake ten napoleons."
The doctor, to oblige his patient, as well as to enjoy his favourite amusement, hastened to comply.
He was most fortunate in the cards he held; he won six consecutive times, and placed sixty napoleons in the hands of his patient. "I am most happy," added he, "in having so successfully performed the mission you confided to me, but whether it is your good luck, or mine, that has been the cause of it, I cannot tell."
"Good Heavens! Dear doctor," exclaimed Andréas, "the only way to be certain of this, is to play for yourself; I will bet on you, as I believe you to be the lucky man."
The doctor did not require to be asked twice; he played, and again had luck beyond belief. In fact, in a short time he had won a hundred napoleons (£80).
"You certainly bring me luck," said Andréas to his partner; "but I have had enough for this evening; I am tired and want repose."