The characters here will speak for themselves.
[Illustration: page335]
They are all sketches from the life, and as like the originals as
the reflection of their persons would be in a looking-glass. By the
frequenters of such places they will be immediately recognised; while
to the uninitiated the family cognomen is of little consequence, and
is omitted, as it might give pain to worthy bosoms who are not yet
irrecoverably lost. By the strict rules of _Fishmongers' Hall_, the
members of Brookes', White's, Boodle's, the Cocoa Tree, Alfred and
Travellers' clubs only are admissible; but this restriction is not
always enforced, particularly where there is a chance of a _good bite_.
The principal game played here is French Hazard, the director and
friends supplying the bank, the premium for which, with what the
box-money produces, forms no inconsiderable source of profit. It is
ridiculous to suppose any unfair practices are ever resorted to in the
general game; in a mixed company they would be easily detected, and must
end in the ruin of the house: but the chances of the game, calculation,
and superior play, give proficients every advantage, and should teach
the inexperienced caution. "It is heart-rending," said Crony, whom I had
smuggled into one corner of the room, for the purpose of enjoying
his remarks free from observation, "to observe the progress of the
unfortunate votaries to this destructive vice, as they gradually proceed
through the various stages of its seductive influence.
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