Another part of the gambling business is that oftentimes even the bookmaker himself may be in need of a shylock. Because contrary to popular opinion the bookie does not always win. In fact, quite often he may go into the “red” as we call it. This can last a week or two. Or he could have a real bad streak where he stays in the red for months on end.
It is said that the gambling business, in all its various forms, is the very lifeblood of organized crime. Bookmaking on horses and sports, the policy or numbers lottery business, dice and card games, slot machines, and a variety of other games of chance became the most important and prominent racket after liquor prohibition ended in 1931. It remains so to this day.
