Jim Smiley, a character from Mark Twain's "The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County," exhibits a fervent and somewhat obsessive attitude toward gambling. He is portrayed as a man who will bet on anything, demonstrating a relentless enthusiasm and a willingness to gamble on even the most trivial events. His confidence in his own luck and the outcomes of his bets often leads to humorous and unexpected situations, highlighting both the absurdity and the thrill he finds in the act of gambling. Ultimately, Smiley's attitude reflects a deep-seated belief in chance and the excitement of risk.
No, the narrator asked Simon Wheeler about an old friend named Leonidas W. Smiley, not Jim Smiley. Simon Wheeler then proceeded to tell the narrator the story of Jim Smiley and his gambling exploits.
He would keep a straight face and shrug his shoulders. He also tried to bet on everything.
The narrator exaggerates about Jim Smiley's obsessive nature for betting, mentioning that Smiley would bet on anything from frog jumping to horse racing. He portrays Smiley as a character who would place a bet on nearly any event or competition, showing his love for gambling.
Jim Smiley had taught his dog to bite the other dog's hind legs during a fight, allowing it to evade direct confrontation while still inflicting damage. This strategy made the dog seem less aggressive and more gentle, which often led opponents to underestimate it. Smiley's clever training showcased his knack for gambling and manipulation in the various contests he participated in.
;^)
wait for someone to make a bet with him.
b.
ggg
Simon Wheeler was reminded of Jim Smiley when he was asked about a man named Leonidas W. Smiley. This mention prompted Wheeler to recount stories about Jim Smiley, a character known for his betting habits and various amusing anecdotes related to his peculiar wagers and the antics of his animals. Wheeler's recollection highlights Jim Smiley's reputation in the community as a quintessential gambler and storyteller.
Besides his trained frog, Jim Smiley had also previously owned a fighting dog.
Educated.
Jim Smiley is described as a lean, lank man with long, straggling black hair, and a complexion of "yaller janders." He often has a smile on his face and a lively twinkle in his eye.