We were compelled to break an engagement with two girls from West Oakland with whom we were attempting to be in love.

They were to meet us up town the next evening, and we hadn't the car-fare necessary to take them home.

Like many others financially embarrassed, we had to disappear for a time from the gay whirl--at least until Saturday night pay-day.

So Louis and I rendezvoused in a livery stable, and with coats buttoned and chattering teeth played euchre and casino until the time of our exile was over.
Then we returned to the National Saloon and spent no more than we could decently avoid spending for the comfort and warmth.

Sometimes we had mishaps, as when one got stuck twice in succession in a five-handed game of Sancho Pedro for the drinks.