ile Jack saw me; and, having taken a good long stare at
me through his opera-glass, he beckoned me to come to him, at the same
time pointing significantly at one of his "lady" companions, as if to
intimate that she was entirely at my disposal. But I shook my head, and
did not stir, for I had no desire to resume my acquaintance with that
fascinating but mysterious youth. Perhaps I entertained a presentiment
that he was destined to become, to both of us, the cause of a great
misfortune.

Jack looked angry and disappointed, at my refusal to accept of his
hospitable invitation. He directed the attention of his women towards
me, and I saw that they were attempting to titter and sneer at my
expense;--but the effort was a total failure, for there was not a
better-dressed person in the house than I was. Having honored the
envious party with a smile of scorn,--which, I flattered myself, was
perfectly successful,--I turned towards the stage, and did not indulge
in another look at Jack or his friends during the remainder of the
opera. I am convinced that from that hour, Jack Slack became my mortal
foe.

At the conclusion of the performances, I left the house and saw Jack
getting into a carriage with the two courtezans. He observed me, and
uttered a decisive shout, to which I paid no attention, but hurried
home, anxious to make one of the little party in the apartment of Mrs.
Romaine, and quite ready to partake of the delicacies which, I knew,
would be provided.

On my arrival home, I immediately repaired to Mrs. Romaine's private
room, where I found that good lady in company with Mr. Anderson. We
three sat down to supper in the highest possible spirits. Alas! how
little did we anticipate the terrible catastrophe that was so soon to
follow!

The more substantial portion of the banquet having been disposed of, the
sparkling wine-cup was circulated freely, and we became very gay and
jovial. Unrestrained by my presence, and exhilarated by the rosy
beverage of jolly Bacchus, the lovers indulged in many little acts of
tender dalliance. Always making it a point to mind my own business, I
applied myself diligently to the bottle, for the wine was excellent and
the sardines had made me thirsty. I had just lighted a cigar, and was
resigning myself to the luxurious and deliciously soothing influence of
the weed, when the door was thrown violently open, and Mr. Romaine
rushed into the room.

His appearance was frightful! his face was dr