Beadle's Dime Library No. 660

# Museum Catalog Note

Jackson Blake's Full Hand at Hardtack by Albert W. Aiken, featured in this June 17, 1891 Beadle and Adams dime novel (No. 660), follows the card-sharp Jackson Blake, known as "the Fresh of 'Frisco," as he travels to the newly discovered gold-diggings of the Hardtack district in Montana. The narrative begins with Blake riding toward Hardtack City on his mule King Solomon, well-armed with revolvers, bowie-knife, and Winchester rifle. He encounters a gaunt, red-haired frontier scout and engages him in philosophical discussion about human nature and hasty decision-making. Blake defends his profession as a gambler, distinguishing himself from other sharps by maintaining ethical standards—refusing to prey on honest players, targeting only dishonest operators, and ensuring losers retain sufficient stake money. The scout expresses cautious approval of Blake's character and directs him toward the mining camp, suggesting favorable prospects await him there.