He went to Chicago
and got in with a firm on the produce exchange. He served them well for
several years and saved money until he could speculate on his own
account. He is an honorable fellow. He resigned his position the moment
he started in to deal on his own account, and he moved right along,
making little successes, until finally he had money enough to go in for
a big strike. He caught the market just right and at the age of
twenty-eight got out of business with half a million to the right side
of his hank account. He then came on to New York, and here he has lead
an easy life, just enjoying himself in a quiet way; and, as I said, his
great weakness is poker. He don't play a heavy game, but loses with a
good grace and wins with exceeding courtesy."
"I reckon he must be a pretty good fellow."
"He is, and hang me, if we are not going to have the pleasure of his
company. That pretty girl did not ring him into her party, and he has
come to make things pleasant for us. I am glad he is here."
Girard, looking as innocent and jovial as a "let her go easy," honest
man, joined Oscar and Thatford, and started in with a pretty compliment,
saying:
"Well, gentlemen, I got left, but I am stranded on a pleasant shore when
my 'renig' sends me to such excellent company and such a bountiful
repast.
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