At last, when we reached, as I anticipated, the Square de la Republique, I patted him on the shoulder.
"Cheer up, my dear Professor," said I."We both are acquainted with nobler things than the ins and outs of gaming-hells." He reeled to a bench under the palm trees, and bursting into tears, gave vent to his misery in the most incoherent language ever uttered by man.
I sat beside him and vainly attempted consolation.
"Ah, how mad I am! Ah, how contemptible! I dare not face my beautiful cats again.

I dare not see the light of the sun.

I have betrayed my trust.

Accursed be the cards.

I, who had my gigantic combination.