He was rather in a fog as to what all this was about, whither they were bound, and what they were to accomplish; but he was willing to be led by the strong will of his companion, and to follow him wherever he went.
Tom's irritation and perplexity had not decreased during the past days.

He was at his wits' end for money; and it seemed to him that if he could not obtain the payment due, he must either trust to his luck at gambling for funds, or else go home and settle down at Gablehurst once again.
For the latter course he was not yet ready.

His soul revolted from the thought of the life of the country squire.

He had tasted of the cup of excitement and pleasure, and was not in the least prepared to relinquish it.

He would rather face almost any alternative than go back to the life of the Essex village, and sink down into the old routine.
So he had been gaming somewhat recklessly these past days, and with varying success.