TOMMY DODD.
This is a mode of 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.
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