The divided table, match play and cruise control

16 April 2013

By Frank Scoblete

Hi Frank,

I'm sending this e-mail concerning a term I heard in a Delaware casino.

At a baccarat table, I heard some of the players yelling loudly for a certain card to come up from the shoe, in order for them to receive the winning hand. They kept calling out the word "Monkey,” "Monkey.”

Could you tell me the origin of the term and how players started using it?

Thanking you in advance,

Les


Dear Les:

The word “monkey” is a translation of the word “monarchy.” When the European playing cards made their way east to China, the Chinese did not say the word “monarchy” correctly and they accented it as “monkey.” That’s the general story of this use of the word.

Therefore a “monkey” is a card with the jack, queen or king on it.

I am sending you a copy of my book "The Virgin Kiss" since I published your letter.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank


Dear Frank:

I played craps at the Hacienda casino out near the Hoover Dam where they have $1 craps. They play with a regulation table when they have enough players but place a flat divider board in the middle of the table when there are only a couple of people playing, have you ever played on a table like this and where would be the best spot to roll from?

All the best,
Roe

Dear RO:

If you are a random roller, it doesn’t matter where you shoot from. If you are a controlled shooter stand as close to that center divider as possible. In fact, a really talented controlled shooter could probably stand at just about any position and do really well at such a table.

In my almost quarter century of playing I have never been at such a table, which is my loss!

I am sending you a copy of my book "The Virgin Kiss" since I have published your letter.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank


Dear Frank:

What is the best way to play casino match play coupons on the craps table? I always play one coupon at a time on the Pass line, figure eight ways to win on first roll only four ways to lose. My brother says Don't Pass would win or lose exactly the same amount of the time. I only get 2-5 coupons for a day. Does my short time exposure favor the Pass line option?

Benchwarmer

Dear Benchwarmer:

Technically your brother is right by about a tenth of a percent or so. In reality it really doesn’t matter which one you play. I’d go with the Pass Line as you did. I prefer to play with the shooter than with the “don’t.”

For your letter I am giving you a free copy of my book "The Virgin Kiss."

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank


Dear Frank:

I have just ordered and watched your DVD on dice control. I am going on a cruise and can't wait to try it out. My question is this: At what point do you take down your bets? Obviously as a beginner I don't look forward to rolling 50 times without a 7.

There must be a time when you start taking down the bets. I have had this problem as just a random roller. I also play Texas Hold'em and blackjack, but craps is my game.

Any suggestions for me as to books on these subjects?

Joe

Dear Joe:

As a random roller I’d just keep my bets to the table minimum and only make one or two of them. As far as taking your bets down, the more you do this, the fewer decisions you face and the fewer decisions you face the less you will lose over time.

On a short trip where your adrenaline is flowing I’d guess you want to stay in the action. Table minimum would be the way to go.

I’d recommend my book “Casino Craps: Shoot to Win!” Yes, my wife hates it when I recommend my own books but this one will suit you well.

I am also giving you a copy of my book “The Virgin Kiss.” I will get it right out to you.

All the best in and out of the casinos!

Frank