"
Hampton bowed, instantly recognizing the names.
"Glad to assist," he murmured, sinking into a vacant chair. "What
limit?"
"We have had no occasion to discuss that matter as yet," volunteered
Hawes, sneeringly. "However, if you have scruples we might settle upon
something within reason."
Hampton ran the undealt pack carelessly through his fingers, his lips
smiling pleasantly. "Oh, never mind, if it chances to go above my pile
I 'll drop out. Meanwhile, I hardly believe there is any cause for you
to be modest on my account."
The play opened quietly and with some restraint, the faces of the men
remaining impassive, their watchful glances evidencing nothing either
of success or failure. Hampton played with extreme caution for some
time, his eyes studying keenly the others about the table, seeking some
deeper understanding of the nature of his opponents, their strong and
weak points, and whether or not there existed any prior arrangement
between them. He was there for a purpose, a clearly defined purpose,
and he felt no inclination to accept unnecessary chances with the
fickle Goddess of Fortune.
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