“Yes; but in more select company.” Steve said quietly. “Not with boys.”
McRaffle’s cold face flushed slightly, and he started to reply, but glanced quickly round the table and reconsidered. Steve was placidly shuffling the cards.
No man likes to have his poker-game assailed, and Middleton and Thurston were no exceptions.
“You’re outclassed, Captain,” said Steve. “I’d be riding that whitefoot bay of yours in a week, if you played with me.”
“Make a jackpot and I’ll give you a chance,” said Middleton, firing up.
Steve, as the winner, was not in a position to stop. The others had warmed up.
“Yes—make it a jackpot, and let that decide which is the biggest blower,” laughed someone.
Steve dealt and Middleton looked pleased, as he well might. None of the others had more than a pair, and they passed out. Steve had three hearts and a pair. He was about to throw the cards down when he caught Middleton’s look of content, and hesitated.
“Come in,” laughed Middleton.