When he went downstairs he found that it was already ten o’clock.
I feel as fresh as if it were morning,” thought Tony. “I’ll go out on Broadway and watch some of the theaters when the people come out.”
Ten o’clock seems late in the country; it is the usual hour for retiring for many families; but in the city it is quite different. There are still many to be seen in the streets, and for many it is the commencement of a season of festivity.
Tony walked for half an hour. He was so thoroughly rested that he felt no fatigue. Presently he stepped into a crowded billiard room, and, seating himself, began to watch a game between a young man of twenty-five and a man probably fifteen years his senior. The first was evidently a gentleman by birth and education; his dress and manners evinced this. The other looked like an adventurer, though he was well dressed.
Come, let us play for the drinks,” said the elder.
I’ve drank enough,” said the young man.
Nonsense. You can stand a little more.”
“Just as you say.”
The game terminated in favor of the elder, and the drinks were brought.
This went on for some time. The young man was evidently affected. Finally he threw down his cue, and said: