This game is played with an entire pack of cards, by any number of
persons from five to fourteen. It consists of five chances, usually
marked on a board, or sheet of paper, as follows:
Best.
The Ace of Diamonds turned up.
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Confederacy. | INTRIGUE; OR | Matrimony.
King and Knave.| QUEEN AND KNAVE. | King and Queen.
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Pairs.
The Highest.
Matrimony is generally played with counters, and the dealer puts what
he pleases on each or any chance, the other players depositing each
the same quantity, less one--that is, when the dealer stakes twelve,
the rest of the company lay down eleven each. After this, two cards
are dealt round to every one, beginning on the left; then to each
person one other card, which is turned up, and he who so happens to
get the ace of diamonds sweeps all. If it be not turned up, then each
player shows his hand; and any of them having matrimony, intrigue,
&c., takes the counters on that point; and when two or more people
happen to have a similar combination, the oldest hand has the
preference; and, should any chance not be gained, it stands over to
the next deal.--_Observe_: The ace of diamonds turned up takes the
whole pool, but when in hand ranks only as any other ace; and if not
turned up, nor any ace in hand, then the king, or next superior card,
wins the chance styled best.
[IGNORANCE MAKES PROUD.]