There are few customs,
however harmless, which avarice cannot convert into the means of rapine
on the one hand, and of distress on the other.
Many of the games, which are now in use with such pernicious effects to
individuals, were not formerly the instruments of private ruin.
Horse-racing was originally instituted with a view of promoting a better
breed of horses for the services of man. Upon this principle it was
continued. It afforded no private emolument to any individual. The
by-standers were only spectators. They were not interested in the
victory. The victor himself was remunerated not with money, but with
crowns and garlands, the testimonies of public applause. But the spirit
of gaming got hold of the custom, and turned it into a private
diversion, which was to afford the opportunity of a private prize.
Cock-fighting, as we learn from AElian, was instituted by the Athenians,
immediately after their victory over the Persians, to perpetuate the
memory of the event, and to stimulate the courage of the youth of Greece
in the defence of their own freedom; and it was continued upon the same
principle, or as a public institution for a public good. But the spirit
of avarice seized it, as it has done the custom of horse-racing, and
continued it for a private gain.
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