THE FORTUNE HUNTER

On that moonlit nite, the excitement at the elegant Hotel Cassino, located on the marvelous Avenida Paulista, was intense. The excitement reigning in the elegant hotel was very justifiable. It was the inaugural nite of that elegant hotel and, in the main hall, very well decorated, a beautiful woman toasted to the future of the Hotel Cassino, wishing for good fortune for its distinguished guests. After making the special toast, Gorete, the owner of that magnificent hotel, threw the champagne glass to the ground in an eloquent gesture of long-established custom. A very attentive bellboy came forward to collect the remnants of the fine crystal glass.

- It's a custom she learned from Greek friends - commented Júnior, who had earned his nickname Az due to the skillful way he played cards and his recognized mastery of nerves.

- She is a wonderful woman! - said Carlos Alberto. - In every imaginable way.

"I can assure you that this hotel is deserving of the reputation it currently holds," Gorete declared, inaugurating the game room. Addressing the customers and guests, she said, making a wide gesture with her well-toned arms: "You may start playing, gentlemen!" Tonight, the drinks are on the house, but I must warn you not to overindulge. Otherwise, I will throw out anyone I see drunk and behaving inappropriately without any mercy.