To one trained in the calm observation of small things, and long accustomed to weigh his adversaries with care, it was not extremely difficult to class the two strangers, and Hampton smiled softly on observing the size of the rolls rather ostentatiously exhibited by them.

He felt that his lines had fallen in pleasant places, and looked forward with serene confidence to the enjoyment of a royal game, provided only he exercised sufficient patience and the other gentlemen possessed the requisite nerve.

His satisfaction was in noways lessened by the sound of their voices, when incautiously raised in anger over some unfortunate play.

He immediately recognized them as the identical individuals who had loudly and vainly protested over his occupancy of the best rooms at the hotel.

He chuckled grimly.
But what bothered him particularly was Slavin.