"Lacville as a gambling centre counts only next to Monte Carlo. But
whereas many people go to Monte Carlo for health, and for various forms
of amusement, people only come here in order to play, and to see others
play. The Casino, which doubtless appears to you a bright, pretty place,
has been the scene and the cause of many a tragedy. Do you know how Paris
regards Lacville?" he asked searchingly.
"No--yes," Sylvia hesitated. "You see I never heard of Lacville till
about a week ago." Innate honesty compelled her to add, "But I have heard
that the Paris trades-people don't like Lacville."
"Let me tell you one thing," the Count spoke with extraordinary
seriousness. "Every tradesman in Paris, without a single exception,
has signed a petition imploring the Government to suspend the Gambling
Concession!"
"What an extraordinary thing!" exclaimed Sylvia, and she was surprised
indeed.
"Pardon me, it is not at all extraordinary. A great deal of the money
which would otherwise go into the pockets of these tradesmen goes now to
enrich the anonymous shareholders of the Casino of Lacville! Of course,
Paris hotel-keepers are not in quite the same position as are the other
Parisian trades-people.
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