17. If there are more than four candidates, the players are selected by
cutting, those first in the room having the preference. The four who cut
the lowest cards play first, and again cut to decide on partners; the two
lowest play against the two highest; the lowest is the dealer, who has
choice of cards and seats, and, having once made his selection, must abide
by it.
18. When there are more than six candidates, those who cut the two next
lowest cards belong to the table, which is complete with six players; on
the retirement of one of those six players, the candidate who cut the next
lowest card has a prior right to any after-comer to enter the table.
19. Two players cutting cards of equal value, unless such cards are the two
highest, cut again; should they be the two lowest, a fresh cut is necessary
to decide which of those two deals.
20. Three players cutting cards of equal value cut again; should the fourth
(or remaining) card be the highest, the two lowest of the new cut are
partners, the lower of those two the dealer; should the fourth card be the
lowest, the two highest are partners, the original lowest the dealer. {232}