The man in the darkened room slouched in a chair placed before the glowing coals in his hearth. His feet were up on a stool, his eyes were closed, and he gave every appearance of relaxation. However, if one were privileged to see the workings of his mind the view would be a busy one indeed. The gambler… The gambler could be useful—and, indeed, had already been so. The gambler could also be a handicap if the fellow's weaknesses overcame him. He knew a great deal. It could be dangerous to leave such a piece on the board. And while the gambler's loyalties had never actually faltered, they had never truly been tested either. A pawn, so far, limited to moving in only one direction. Yet he was a pawn who could be promoted to a knight—or who could cost the match. The coals glowed and the house settled and creaked with the advancement of the crisping autumn night. The clock on the mantel chimed the third hour. The man remained sprawled comfortably in his chair, thinking. Yes, the gambler could yet be useful.
