“ TOWEL THROWN IN.”

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19802, 29 May 1926, Page 12

“ TOWEL THROWN IN.”

ROLL DOWNS ILLEGAL. (From Oxjb Own Correspondent.) AUCKLAND, May 28. Yesterday afternoon, Ivan Kongo Chamberlain, proprietor of one of the amusement, parlours in Queen street, came before Mr F K. Hunt, S.M., charged with using his premises as a common gaming house, and also with playing a game of chance known as “roll down.” . Chief Detective Cummings, in asking for a remand until to-day, suggested that Mr Hunt should adjourn to view the game as it was being played. . .. , . . Accordingly the magistrate, the c.erk of the court, the chief detective, and two newspaper reporters went to the amusement parlour, where the party was reinforced by several detectives. Members of the inspecting party each took a table, and we to given three balls. These balls were rolled down the inclined fable, the highest number winning the pool. Six pockets are provided for tho balls to enter. In support of tho proprietor’s contention that skill was required one of his assistants demonstrated that ho could secure high points. When the magistrate returned to tho court Mr Hall Skelton stated that he could call several men who would say that they could fill any pockets they nominated. When the ease was again called in the court this afternoon defendant pleaded guilty. Mr Hall Skelton said that one or two plavers had been able to put up veiy fair scores but he had to admit that the game was one of chance.” They will have to throw in tho towel,” he said _ “It’s n game for bushmen, put in (lie chief- detective. . , . , Mr Hunt: Defendant has not caused much fondle. I will ( ' n e llim 40s and costs, and lot me say this, if the others don’t stop I will fine them £SO.