Around the middle of the 18th century, this Englishman wrote a book of rules and instructions for indoor games, especially card games. Who was he?

In the bustling social scene of the 18th century, as indoor games, particularly card games, grew in popularity, there was a clear need for standardized rules to ensure fair play and settle disputes. This is where an influential English writer stepped in, publishing a groundbreaking book of instructions that would forever link his name with definitive gaming rules. Beginning around 1741, he started tutoring members of high society in the game of whist and, needing a standard text for his pupils, he penned *A Short Treatise on the Game of Whist*, which was published in 1742.

This initial treatise quickly became a sensation, going through numerous editions during his lifetime and being translated into French and German. His work extended beyond whist to include rules and strategies for other popular games of the era, such as backgammon, piquet, quadrille, and chess. He was notable for his clear, easy-to-understand rules and was among the first to apply mathematical analysis to games to determine optimal strategies. His books were so widely read and respected that they became the ultimate authority for players, from novices to experts.

The impact of this Englishman's dedication to codifying game rules was profound and lasting. His name, Edmond Hoyle, became synonymous with accuracy and authority in games, giving rise to the common phrase "according to Hoyle." This expression signifies strict adherence to universally accepted rules and customs, and it is still used today, extending beyond games to imply compliance with any established standard. Even centuries after his death in 1769 at the age of 97, books collecting rules for various games continue to be published under the "Hoyle" name, a testament to his enduring legacy as the definitive source for game regulations.