The story describes a legal case in Kentucky where boys were caught playing “seven-up” for money, which was considered a game of chance.
Jim Sturgis, the defense attorney, cleverly argued that “old sledge” was a game of science, not chance, to defend his clients.
Despite initial skepticism, Sturgis presented overwhelming evidence to support his claim, leading to a unique solution proposed by the judge.
A jury of six “chance” and six “science” individuals was impaneled to determine the nature of the game. After a night of playing, the jury unanimously declared that “old sledge” was a game of science, not chance, based on their observations.
This verdict led to the game being classified as a game of science in Kentucky law, showcasing the clever legal maneuvering by Sturgis to secure a favorable outcome for his clients.
