The cards and dice were got out at once, and Miss Carlaw plunged into the game. Comethup had slipped away, and had stolen over to where the captain sat apart; he drew near him, and the old man put his arm about him and held him close, without speaking. Presently, however, Miss Carlaw remembered the boy, and stopped her game to call aloud for him. "Where's Comethup? He's been winning people's money all the week, now he's got to give them a chance of revenge.--A man can't slink away with full pockets, you know, Prince Charming. Where are you? Come and take a hand here at once." The boy rose obediently, and the captain rose with him. Indeed, the captain walked with him to Miss Carlaw's side, and then ventured to interpose, in a low voice, "You surely do not let this child play, madam, and for money?" She turned her face up to him, with a frown upon it. "And why not, pray? He's got money enough and to spare; let him win or lose as he will. Don't spoil sport, captain; sit down, and take a hand yourself." "No, no; I am but a poor gentleman, and have nothing to lose; it is as well to be frank on such matters." He turned and walked back to his former place, changed his mind, and came back to watch the child play. Comethup was in luck that night; more than once Miss Carlaw patted his shoulder approvingly when the money was pushed toward him. When at last play was finished, and the guests had departed, the captain lingered a little uneasily, glancing once or twice at the old woman, as though he wished to speak. Perhaps she guessed his intention, for she kept her hand obstinately on Comethup's shoulder and said pointedly: "Well, I suppose we're all tired, and had better get to bed.--Why, you're quite sleepy, Prince Charming." The captain raised his head. "If you would spare me a matter of five minutes, madam, I should be glad. There is something I wish to say----" "What, at this time of night? Won't it keep till morning?" "I'm afraid not," replied the captain, quietly. "Just like a man--so devilish unreasonable! Very well, let's have it." "Not before the child," said the captain, in the same tone as before. "Oh! You seem determined to have your own way, so I suppose I must humour you. If I fall asleep, don't accuse me of rudeness.--Prince Charming, go to bed." Comethup, wondering a little, kissed his aunt and gravely shook hands with the captain. When he had gone, and the door was closed, Miss Carlaw seated herself, rested her hands on the top of her stick and her chin on her hands, and waited for the captain to begin. He seemed somewhat at a loss, and paced about nervously for a few moments before speaking.