gambling very much in vogue at the present time. It is
often played at public-houses among parties to decide who is to pay the
reckoning. Each party turns down a half-penny, and, on uncovering it,
the matter is decided as in 'heads or tails.' Of course this expeditious
method is also used in gambling for money. Not long ago a retired
tradesman, happening to be in a public-house, where such things were
connived at, allowed himself to be induced to play at Tommy Dodd with
two low sharpers. They soon eased him of all the cash he had about him.
A bright idea, however, occurred to him. 'Stop a bit,' he said, 'I must
have my revenge. Just wait till I go home for more money.' The sharpers
were rejoiced at the idea, and rubbed their hands with delight, whilst
the tradesman went, as they felt sure, only to bring more money into
their 'till.' The man made all haste, for he was determined to have his
revenge, and soon returned with a large bag of money, which he clinked
on the table.

He first pulled out some coppers, telling them to choose from the lot
the coins they would play with. They assented, although they did not
seem 'much to like it.' 'And now,' said the tradesman, 'let's set to
business.'

The game proceeded with alternate success on both sides; but the
tradesman went on DOUBLING THE STAKES EVERY TIME, WHETHER HE LOST OR
WON, and, of course, at length completely broke their bank, and went off
with their money.

GAMBLING AT THE WINE AND OYSTER ROOMS, OR 'SALOONS.'

The gambling which was carried on in the private rooms of the wine and
oyster houses, about thirty years ago, and perhaps later, was just such
as that which had so long flourished in the low vicinity of St James's.
Indeed, the constant frequenters of the former had attained the most
profound knowledge of the art of robbing at the West End gaming houses.
The blacklegs visited the saloons every night, in order to pick up
new acquaintances among the young and inexperienced. They were polite,
well-dressed, gentlemanlike persons; and if they could trace anything
'soft' in the countenance of a new visitor, their wits went to work at
once to establish an acquaintance with him. Wine was set a-going, and
cards were proposed. The master of the concern soon provided a room, and
play advanced, accompanied by the certainty of loss to the unfortunate
stranger. But if the invitation to play was rejected, they made another
plant upon him. The ruffians attacked him throug