Subject
Cardsharping Books
Best books
John Nevil Maskelyne
Sharps and Flats A Complete Revelation of the Secrets of Cheating at Games of Chance and Skill
"Sharps and Flats" by John Nevil Maskelyne is a detailed examination of the art and mechanics of cheating in games of chance and skill, written in the late 19th century. This intriguing work aims to uncover the tricks and deceptions employed by those who engage in sharping, providing readers with an insight into the world of gambling fraud. Maskelyne, an accomplished magician and illusionist, sets forth to educate the public on recognizing these deceptions and understanding the moral implications related to cheating. At the start of the book, the author presents a philosophical perspective on the nature of cheating, suggesting that some individuals are inherently inclined towards crime and deception. He shares his personal experiences in battling chicanery, emphasizing the importance of enlightening the public about the extent of cheating prevalent in society. Following this introduction, Maskelyne begins to explore the common tactics employed by sharps, illustrating how they operate in various settings like racecourses and card games, thus teasing the audience with the revelations that will follow in the subsequent chapters. The tone is educational yet cautionary, setting the stage for a deeper exploration into the dark arts of cheating.
Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin
The Sharper Detected and Exposed
"The Sharper Detected and Exposed" by Jean-Eugène Robert-Houdin is a treatise on the art of sleight-of-hand and the detection of gambling cheats, written in the mid-19th century. The book delves into the world of fraudsters referred to as "Greeks," exploring their various schemes and tricks used to dupe unsuspecting players and gamblers. Robert-Houdin aims to educate the public on the deceptions prevalent in gambling, drawing from his own experiences and knowledge gained through years of study and mastery of magical performances. At the start of the book, the author introduces readers to his motivations for writing about the deceptive practices of sharpers. He reflects on his requests from magistrates to investigate cheating cases, revealing the complexities faced by judges who need to understand the intricacies of sleight-of-hand to bring justice. Robert-Houdin expresses his desire to illuminate the tricks of these con artists to protect the public, and he shares anecdotes like his encounter with the cunning sharper Elias Hausheer to illustrate the dangers involved in understanding and confronting such deceitful practices. The narrative goes on to lay the groundwork for further exploration of the different types of sharpers and their methods, setting the stage for a detailed look at the world of gambling deception.
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