CASINO GAMES 



of them ; I do not go in because I am ignorant of the 

 other two." 



I have often wondered that such an attractive place 

 as Boulogne-sur-Mer does not keep open more months 

 than the usual three from the middle of June till the 

 middle of October, with the few days at Easter and 

 Whitsuntide. When it is considered that there is as 

 much fun to be had for the gambler as there is by going 

 long distances, it is incredible that three times the 

 number of people do not rush across the Channel. 

 The great charm about it is that Boulogne is only three 

 hours from London, and that there is a splendid 

 service into the bargain. I have seen a good many 

 foreign health resorts and their casinos, but nowhere 

 that I can remember is there such an admirable 

 personnel as in the " Cercle Prive." The head of 

 the administration is that courtly gentleman, M. de 

 St Andre ; he is indicative of the way everything is 

 run. No one can be guaranteed against losing their 

 money, but everything is dead straight there, and that 

 is the reason of its success. 



Few have an idea what restrictions are placed 

 round a concession such as that obtained by a casino 

 from the municipality with the consent of a responsible 

 Minister of State. To begin with, the dates of opening 

 and closing are strictly laid down. Boulogne, for 

 instance, has to give a certain number of days at 

 Easter and Whitsuntide, and whatever the weather, 

 and however little the encouragement, has to open 

 their doors on June 15th and has to keep open till 

 a certain date in October. Then for the good of the 

 townspeople entertainments and music have to be 

 provided, so that the individual with only a small 

 sum to spend — and not a gambler — has to be catered 

 for. Of course profits are large; still, expenses are 



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