premise: a merchant <mask>; a <mask> of players.
hypothesis: the best context for <mask> here is A leguminous plant (Vigna Sinensis, syn. Vigna Catjang) found throughout the tropics of the Old World. It is extensively cultivated in the Southern United States for fodder, and the seed is used as food for man.; but not The chief of any body of men; one at the head of a class or profession; one who is preëminent.