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It is essential to note that there exist two exceptions to the low gambling houses before described, which in a great measure may be assimilated to European Clubs, being distinctly club houses. There are constructed by associations of the more affluent residents, who hire a home on the purposes of festivity and amusement at which the members and their friends meet. Gambling is in these houses carried on for large amounts but apparently not exceeding the means of the players, as I never heard of any one becoming insolvent in consequence. In several instances persons found gaming at such houses have been apprehended and heavy fines imposed. As a general remark I may observe that though the Chinese are fond of playing at games of chance, a regular frequenter of gaming houses is looked upon as a loose character and would not be received in any employment of a position involving trust.

In the foregoing having given a brief outline of the description and amount of gaming now existing in the Colony, I venture to express what I firmly believe would be the result if gambling houses were licensed.

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