University of Virginia Library

“POKER”

Many distinguished men like Simeon Cameron, General
Schenck, General Nye and Senator Chandler, take a quiet game of
“poker” occasionally for amusement. It relaxes the tired brain
and is a relief from the fatigues of literary or forensic labor.
Even Webster and Clay and Calhoun played “poker.”

Judge Bixly tells this “poker” joke on Senator Robertson and
the Hon. Mr. W— to-day.

The two Honorables are in the habit of resorting to the Senator's
room daily to take a quiet social game of American “poker.”

[ILLUSTRATION] [Description: 628EAF. Page 061. In-line Illustration. Image of a masquerade ball with a crowd of people all dressed in costumes. In the front center is a man in a devil costume. The caption reads, "MASKED BALL."] The Honorable Senator's room is in the “L” of Congress Hall,
and just across the corner was the room occupied by two witty
New York married ladies, who could see the Senator's hand.
William dealt good hands, and both commenced betting with a
good deal of vim. “One—two hundred better!” said Senator
Robinson. William was just about to call him, when “Three
queens!” shouted one of the ladies. The Hon. William saved
his $200, but the blinds have never been open since!