The baron spoke as a reserved gentleman would speak under the circumstances.
"Excuse me," said Jack, "I did not put the question in a specific manner, but only in a general way."
"You appear to be a good fellow. I will answer you frankly. I gamble because I want the money."
"It's a poor way to get money."
"Yes, I know it, but I am very poor. I have a small remittance, not sufficient to support me. I was not reared to labor—indeed, I do not know what to do. I am half-inclined to put a pistol to my head and end it all."
Jack was more and more amazed. The young man talked less like a rogue than any individual he had met in a long time. He meditated a moment and then said:
"I have plenty of money; possibly I can be of some service to you."
"A stranger?"
"Yes, a stranger; why not? We are both young men and have the world before us. I will admit that I have taken a great fancy to you."
"I am very much obliged for your kind interest in me, but you cannot be of any service."