This insinuation nettled
me so much that I challenged him to a game at piquet for a crown:
and he was with difficulty persuaded to accept the invitation. This
contest ended in less than an hour to my inexpressible affliction,
who lost every shilling of my own money, Strip absolutely refusing
to supply me with a sixpence.
The gentleman at whose request we bad come in, perceiving by my
disconsolate looks the situation of my heart. which well nigh burst
with grief and resentment, when the other stranger got up, and went
away with my money, began in this manner:--"I am truly afflicted at
your bad luck. and would willingly repair it, were it in my power.
But what in the name of goodness could provoke you to tempt your
fate so long? It is always a maxim with gamesters to pursue success
as far us it will go, and to stop whenever fortune shifts about.
You are a young man, and your passions are too impetuous; you must
learn to govern them better. However, there is no experience like
that which is bought; you will be the better for this the longest
day you have to live. As for the fellow who has got your money, I
don't half like him. Did not you see me tip you the wink to leave
off in time?" I answered, "No.
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