It reminded him of the man who offered sovereigns for shillings, and never exchanged a coin.
Once he turned to see if his friends were still watching him.

They were, two among many; for the exploit had gone round, and there were other wagers being laid on the result.

While his head was turned, and his grin was directed at the club window, a handsome young woman in blue came along.

She paused, touched her lips with her gloved hand meditatingly, and then went right-about-face swiftly.

Some one in the window motioned frantically to the vender, but he did not understand.
Ten minutes left in which to win his bet.