ROBESPIERRE'S GAME OF CHESS.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 22, Issue 66, 25 August 1911, Page 2

ROBESPIERRE'S GAME OF CHESS.

One day Maximilian "Robespierre entered the cafe de la P.egenc* to find it deserted except for the presence of a foppish-looking lad who offered himself as an adversary for the habitual game oL chess which was the favoured recreation of the despot’s busy day. They seated themselves at a table, and the boy soon proved himself a master at the game. Robespierre, biting his nails with annoyance—for he was a Poor loser, and hated to be beaten — saw one piece after another disappear, until game after game had been won by his adversary. Finally he rose to go, having lost the last cent in his pocket. His companion, however, detained him. "Come, citizen, the luck has been against you, but I’ll give you another chance.’’

“I’ve nothing left; you’ve emptied my purse,” scowled Maximilian. “What would you have me bet ?” “Surely what you deal in,” laughed the other. “Will you wager me a head ?”

The game began, and Robespierre lost again ! The boy, flushed with excitement, drew a paper from his coat; it was an order for the release of a prisoner detained at "La Force” ; it needed but the tyrant’s signature.

“Sign here,” the youth said, handing a pen to Robespierre, who, half annoyed, half amused, did so. “And now, citizen,” he inquired, looking somewhat grimly at his opponent, “you must tell me your name also.”

“That I will never do,” cried the other. “You may call me citoyenne ! —and hurrah for the Goddess of Fortune, who has given me the chance to win back my lover !” Before the astonished Robespierre could detain her, his adversary was of! in a flash, and, darting among the crowd, disappeared from view.” —From "Shadows of Old Paris,” by G. Duval.