The moment had come for which I had been watching. Time after time I felt inclined to strike a sudden blow; but held myself in.
"No more to-day, cavaliere," I said, filling my glass, "I have business and must away."
A red flush came to his forehead, "I cannot pay you at once," he said in a low tone.
"Tush!" I replied, "the word of Baglioni is enough--but if you want a last try for your revenge, I will cut you----"
"Double or quits?" he burst in.
"No, cavaliere," and I dropped the words out slowly, "the five hundred against a five minutes' interview with the Lady Angiola."
He leaned back in his chair in amaze, and I went on, "Listen to me, I only want five minutes' speech with her--in your presence if you will--come, shall I cut or will you?"
"Diavolo!" he muttered, "if Carlo hears of this--well, yes--I will cut first--the ten--a bad card to beat."
I cut carelessly, and faced my card. It was a king.
"Hell and Furies!" he burst out. "You have won. Come, sir," and rising he advanced towards the bear.