Leaving off backing numbers en plein, he laid his venture a cheval; then tried it upon the dozens; then upon two numbers; then upon a square; and, apparently getting nearer and nearer defeat, at last upon the simple chances of even or odd, over or under, red or black.

Yet with a few fluctuations in his favour fortune bore steadily against him, till he could breast her blows no longer.

He rose from the table and came towards Somerset, and they both moved on together into the entrance-hall.
Dare was at that moment the victim of an overpowering mania for more money.

His presence in the South of Europe had its origin, as may be guessed, in Captain De Stancy's journey in the same direction, whom he had followed, and troubled with persistent request for more funds, carefully keeping out of sight of Paula and the rest.

His dream of involving Paula in the De Stancy pedigree knew no abatement.