Good-by till the evening," said the lieutenant, taking his leave.
That afternoon the light knocking was heard again, and Tinkeles reappeared.

He looked cautiously around the room, and approached Anton.
"Allow me to ask," said he, with a confidential wink, "is it really true that you lent him twenty ducats, and would lend him more if he wished ?" Anton assented to both these propositions.

"And now," said he, "tell me plainly what is running in your head, for I see you have something to disclose." Tinkeles made a sly face, and winked harder.

"Even though he be your good friend, beware of lending him money.

If you know what you are about, you will lend him no more money." "And why not ?" inquired Anton.