8, which had thus far been the headquarters of the gamblers.
Seating themselves on the stools, they used one of the beds as a table, and in a few moments were deeply absorbed in the exciting game.

They spoke in whispers, and were careful not to rattle the props too loudly.
After they had played a few moments, Shuffles came in.

They invited him to join them in the play, but he declined, and soon left the mess room, returning to the deck.

In the waist he met Paul Kendall, who was the officer of his watch, and, like him, was off duty.

They had generally been on good terms while in the after cabin together, for then Shuffles was on his best behavior.
"How do things go on in the after cabin now, Kendall--I beg your pardon--Mr.Kendall ?" said Shuffles, in his most gentlemanly tones.
"About as usual, Mr.Shuffles," replied Paul.
"I am not a 'mister' now," laughed Shuffles.
"Well, it's all the same to me.