Several years ago, I was playing in the smaller casino at Caesars Palace. I was only a basic strategy player at the time, and was playing $50/hand on first base at a full 6 deck table. The dealer was fast, and automatically playing obvious hands for the players. She was playing correct b.s. so far, so I didn't complain.

I had a hard total of 15, and she had a seven showing. Before I could signal to hit, she tossed a six on the next player! Of course, I immediately spoke up, and the dealer called over the pit boss.

I explained the situation, and made sure to state that basic strategy called for a hit. Everyone at the table told the pit boss that I was not given time to signal my hand. I expected the dealer to concede, but she said snidely, "He's only complaining because the card is a six."

The pit boss said that the best she could do was to let me back out of the hand.

I gathered up my chips, refused to color up, and stalked out in a huff. The one consolation was that I walked out to the bigger casino area, and proceeded to have my biggest winning session ever.

I no longer allow any dealer to assume any decision for me.