Ere I could express my gratification at this unexpected recognition, he laid his hand on my arm.

'You have lost much,' said he; 'more than you can afford.

For my part, I dislike play; yet I wish to have some interest in what is going on.

Will you play this sum for me?
the risk is mine,--the half profits yours.' I was startled, as you may suppose, at such an address; but Zanoni had an air and tone with him it was impossible to resist; besides, I was burning to recover my losses, and should not have risen had I had any money left about me.
I told him I would accept his offer, provided we shared the risk as well as profits.

'As you will,' said he, smiling; 'we need have no scruple, for you will be sure to win.' I sat down; Zanoni stood behind me; my luck rose,--I invariably won.