The evil, connected with them, will depend solely upon the manner of their use.

If they are used for a trial of skill, and for this purpose only, they will be less dangerous, than where they are used for a similar trial, with a monied stake.

In the former case, however, they may be made to ruffle the temper, for, in the very midst of victory, the combatant may experience defeat.

In the latter case, the loss of victory will be accompanied by a pecuniary loss, and two causes, instead of one, of the excitement of the passions, will operate at once upon the mind.
It seldom happens, and it is much to be lamented, either that children, or that more mature persons, are satisfied with amusements of this kind, so as to use them simply as trials of skill.

A monied stake is usually proposed, as the object to be obtained.