The gambler

Sunday, January 10th., Hotel d'Italie, Menton.

I am progressing with "The Great Man" but it is impossible to work hard at a novel and appreciate a new environment at the same time. Beyond a walk to the centre of town and the bandstand I made no excursion. But I breakfasted on the balcony in dressing gown and overcoat, and all day I have had the atmosphere, perfectly wonderful, and the magnificent views from the balcony.

Yesterday I went to the Casino at Monte. Of course I went to study human nature and to find material! The sole advantage of being a novelist is that when you are discovered ina place where, as a serious person, you would prefer not to be discovered, you can always aver that you are studying human nature and seeking material.I was much impressed by the fact of my being in Monte Carlo. I was proud. And when I got into the gorgeous gaming saloons I was more proud still. Then, after studying human nature at large I began to study it at a roulette table. Just as a serious novelist might.

I don't know how it was, but long before I had formally decided to gamble I knew by instinct that I should stake a five franc piece that I happened to have in my pocket. I fought against the idea but couldn't take my hand empty out of my pocket. Then at last I drew forth the five franc piece and bashfully put it on black. I felt that all the fifty or sixty persons crowding round the table were staring at me, and recognised me as a beginner. However black won and the croupier pushed another five franc piece alongside mine, and I picked them both up smartly. I thought I might as well continue. In truth I hadn't the face to get up and leave after one gamble, and in an hour I had made fifty francs without breaking into gold. Then I decided to prove my self-control by ceasing to play. So I did prove it and went to have tea in the Casino cafe. I was as happy as though I had shot a reviewer without being found out!

I may go again. To study human nature.