But as regards games of chance, my dear Chevalier, we are perhaps both of us precisely at the age...." Casanova cut him short.

"At the age--very likely.

Unfortunately, however, I can no longer look forward to the pleasure of measuring myself at the card table with a partner of your rank.

The reason is simple." He spoke in the tone of a dethroned sovereign.

"Despite my renown, my dear Marchese, I am now practically reduced to the condition of a beggar." The Marchese involuntarily lowered his eyes before Casanova's haughty gaze.