A profound
knowledge of the occult sciences has persuaded the Baron that it is
possible to solve the famous problem called the "Philosopher's Stone."
His own pecuniary resources have long since been exhausted by his
costly experiments. His sister has next supplied him with the small
fortune at her disposal: reserving only the family jewels,
placed in the charge of her banker and friend at Frankfort.
The Countess's fortune also being swallowed up, the Baron has
in a fatal moment sought for new supplies at the gaming table.
He proves, at starting on his perilous career, to be a favourite
of fortune; wins largely, and, alas! profanes his noble enthusiasm
for science by yielding his soul to the all-debasing passion of
the gamester.
'At the period of the Play, the Baron's good fortune has deserted him.
He sees his way to a crowning experiment in the fatal search
after the secret of transmuting the baser elements into gold.
But how is he to pay the preliminary expenses? Destiny, like a
mocking echo, answers, How?
'Will his sister's winnings (with my Lord's money) prove large enough
to help him? Eager for this result, he gives the Countess his advice
how to play.
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