Life of Johnson (1776) [ People / Practices ]
… a new gaming-club, of which Mr. Beauclerk had given me an account, where the members played to a desperate extent. JOHNSON. “Depend upon it, Sir, this is mere talk. Who is ruined by gaming? You will not find six instances in an age. … “There may be few people absolutely ruined by deep play ; but very many are much hurt in their circumstances by it.” JOHNSON. “Yes, Sir, and so are very many by other kinds of expence.” I had heard him talk once before in the same manner; … either for or against. Lord Elibank had the highest admiration of his powers. He once observed to me, “Whatever opinion Johnson maintains, I will not say that he convinces me; but he never fails to shew me, that he has good reasons for it.” …
Marriage | Gaming
Anthology