007

     i went to argentina 25 years ago because i heard the dove and duck shooting was terrific.  it was, and buenos aires  was the most european city - outside europe - i had ever experienced.  unfortunately, i forgot one thing - i spoke no spanish - which came to plague me when i found myself alone in an airport far from buenos aires and my flight was cancelled.  happily i found a local traveler in the same predicament and he delivered me to an alternative flight source.  i did, during our 45 minute car ride, consider, briefly, the possibility he was kidnapping me - but i wasn't worth much so i put that thought away quickly.

before that hiccup i had wonderful shooting and one funny experience in a local casino.  we were moving from doves to ducks which required an overnight in a small town en route.  i wanted dinner and some gambling at the local house of ill repute and was soon sitting before the roulette wheel.  being a believer in mechanics and their shortcomings i began  to record the spins and their results...until a large, dark complected gentleman inserted himself between me and the wheel - shouting loudly and waving his arms aggressively.  i called out for carlos, my host, who quickly relieved tensions.

from there it was on to the baccarat table.

i flopped down between two gamblers, bought some chips, and, as they say, began to play.  my first wager amounted to fifty bucks - on bank.  the hands were dealt - one for "player" and one for "bank".  "banco," murmured the dealer.  i had won!  "let it ride," i said as i waved off the chips pushed my way.  won again.  now there was two hundred in the betting block.  the gambler to my right shifted in his seat.  "senor..." he said as i indicated to the dealer to let it stand. third time's a charm.  now there was four hundred at risk.

"senor," he said again.  "it  is not wise to make this wager."  he stuck out his hand.  "i am alberto.  what is your name?"

i looked him over and replied, "bond.  james bond."

a burst of laughter came from the small crowd which had gathered behind us.  then, a small ripple of applause.

he was right.  i lost the bet.