Mr. C. Swindle, I call it. And I should have won, too—it is 7. I’ve had enough of this—suppose we go and dance?
Miss D. Why, you’re not going to give in already—after so nearly winning, too?
Mr. C. Ah, well, I’ll have just one more go—and then we’ll be off. I’m going to try the 9 this time. [He stakes.
Miss D. I should have gone on the 4—it’s time one of the even numbers won again.
Mr. C. Oh, would you? All right, then. (To Cr.) Pas sur le neuf—le quatre. (The Croupier transfers the franc to 4.) They’re off—can’t tell the winner yet. Now they’re slower—4’s good—4’s very good. See where he’s stopped, not an inch from the post! This isn’t half a bad game.
[A horse with a red flag at his head, labelled No. 9, creeps slowly up, and stops just ahead of 4.
Croupier. Neuf, impair, et rouge!
Mr. C. It’s 9 after all—and I backed him first. (In an injured tone.) I should have won if you hadn’t said that about 4!
Miss D. (with secret delight). I won’t advise any more. What are you going to back?
Mr. C. We really ought to be dancing—but I’ll try my luck once more on No. 4. I shall put on two francs this time.