Many politicians enjoy dabbling in gambling. While politics also assumes some risk, there's often nothing quite like the rush which comes from gambling; whether the individual prefers slots, blackjack or poker. As with ordinary citizens, however, not all spouses approve of the actions of their gambling partner. The Nevada state senator from 1909 to 1917 was one such individual who got in a bit of trouble with the Missus over gambling, which helps to make him such a relatable individual. Even now, more than one hundred years later, the plight of the senator is still understandable to the people of today.
The Nevada state senator in question was Zeb Kendall. He had a notorious reputation with respect to gambling. One of his favorite hangout spots included the racetracks of California. Senator Kendall was even well-known for his intelligence and skill when it came to horses and horse wagering. One day, the good senator went back to his apartment and was greeted by his wife. Because Senator Kendall was late for dinner, his wife was considerably upset. He was late because he had been at the Bay Meadows Race Track. In order to try to pacify his wife, he opened his satchel before her. It was loaded down with gold and bank notes. The total worth of his winnings that day was $80,000.
Unappeased, Mrs. Kendall took the bag from the senator. After taking it, she opened the window and threw all of the money down to the streets below. The majority of the money was recovered by the attendants working at the hotel.
An American politician with an interest in the risky side of life, Zeb Kendall was someone who could have a great deal of money one minute and then very little the next. The opposite might also come true for him. In the end, on this particular day, the great sum of money he managed to earn was taken from him by a mistress even less predictable than Lady Luck. Mrs. Kendall proved there is no wrath like that of a woman scorned, especially when an individual is late for a planned dinner because they decided to spend more time at the racetrack instead of at home with their family. The good wife Kendall decided that her husband was not quite so lucky that day after all. So, fellows, if you are going to be late for dinner, or any meal, due to gambling, it might be a good idea to let your wife know ahead of time. And you might not want to turn over your winnings so easily, just in case there's a window nearby.
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