Forty Years a Gambler on the Mississippi

Forty Years a Gambler on the Mississippi is a memoir by George H. Devol, first published in 1887. The book chronicles Devol's life as a professional gambler on the Mississippi River, detailing his adventures and encounters over four decades. Starting as a cabin boy at age ten, Devol quickly became a skilled card player, cheating and winning from various opponents, including soldiers and businessmen. This historical account provides insight into the gambling culture of the 19th century and the colorful characters that inhabited it.