“Deal ’em face-up,” said Duke softly. “Give the crowd a little entertainment, Sleed.”
“Another empty shell,” came the Saint’s voice. “This is not a luck game, folks; it is a cinch for the dealer.”
Sleed’s hand shook as he started to deal. Duke got an ace, while Sleed’s card showed the five of hearts. Slowly the next two fell to the table; a five of clubs to Duke and the deuce of diamonds to Sleed.
“Ace, five, deuce,” said Duke softly. “Luck is laughing at you, Sleed.”
Sleed tossed the next two, and the crowd gasped. Each man drew a king.
“Matched cards,” said Duke, laughing softly. “One more card, Sleed, one more. This one proves that luck has left you.”
Slowly Sleed moved the top card and tossed it across at Duke. It was the deuce of clubs, making a pair of deuces for Duke Steele. An ace, king, or a five would win for Sleed.
“Friend, you are out of luck.” The Saint’s voice seemed to be directed at Silver Sleed. “I told you that this game cannot be beat, but you——”
Sleed spun his card in the air and it fell face-up on the pile of chips.