Scoundrels have cheated their victims throughout history, but the term "confidence man" was apparently coined only in 1849, and it immediately achieved widespread currency. (2) It originated in the story of a swindler of gentlemanly appearance and remarkable boldness named Samuel Thompson. (3) He would approach a well-dressed stranger on the streets of a city and greet him as if he were an old acquaintance. (4) After a brief conversation, Thompson would ask, "Have you confidence in me to trust me with your watch until tomorrow?" (5) The victim, embarrassed to have forgotten this courteous and friendly gentleman and reluctant to deny such a direct request, would lend his watch. (6) Then the "confidence man" would walk off laughing, never to return. (7) He was finally caught by the police only after he was spotted by a previous victim.