And it is the truth, he hoped then to lose and have done with it--after proving his case.

The ball whirled, kicked, tried for seat in two, in three points, and entered 17.
The usual temporary wonderment flew round the table; and this number was courted in dread, avoided with apprehension.
Abrane let fly a mighty breath: 'Virgin, by Jove!' Success was a small matter to Gower Woodseer.

He displayed his contempt of fortune by letting his heap of bank-notes lie on Impair, and he won.
Abrane bade him say 'Maximum' in a furious whisper.

He did so, as one at home with the word; and winning repeatedly, observed to Fleetwood: 'Now I can understand what historians mean, in telling us of heroes rushing into the fray and vainly seeking death.

I always thought death was to be had, if you were in earnest.' Fleetwood scrutinized the cast of his features and the touch of his fingers on the crispy paper.
'Come to another of these "green fields,"' he returned briefly.