questions to Billb

first of all, I would like to thank you for your posts.   Being new to
the game I am particularly interested in the Dealers' viewpoint, and I
don't understand some the insulting responses you have gotten . . .
when you described 'the perfect player', I understood that what you
were praising was his good play and ability to quit while ahead, not
just that he tipped.

Anyway, I went to the casino for the first time a few weeks ago and
the bug has gotten hold of me.    I won money my first four trips (the
most was 700), but I lost the following two trips.   On both of these
occassions I left all $200 I took with me at the casino.  Even though
the money lost is not a big deal, the losses were traumatic at a
certain level: even though my brain always knew otherwise, my heart
thought that I could not lose.  I am now taking a few weeks off to
study, learn, and take my game to the next level.  If you could answer
a few questions I would appreciate it . . .

1.   What are the dealers really thinking?  On the surface they seem
to wish the players well, but really . . .?

2.   Assume for this question that I bring a pleasant demeaner to the
table, play basic stratagy, and make a small toke (I have been in the
habit of placing a nickle bet for dealer on the first hand.)
     Now, If I look down and find that I am being paid for a push.  
Is it more likely an error or not?   Should I say something or keep my
mouth shut?   This has happened twice, so it can't be that rare.  I
did not say anything, because I did not want to make the dealer look
foolish, especially if he were really trying to cut me a break.

3.   I have not really become a good counter yet but I am working on
it.   As a dealer you see the tell-tale signs before anyone . .  what
does the casino expect you to do about it?  What do most dealers
actually do?

4.   Is it safe to think that if I am playing a bet spread of 10-50
and my winning per session are under $1000 I will be too small a fish
to attract attention?

5.   What is the dealer thinking when he slides the shuffle card in -
why do some dealers routinely go only 65% while others go much deeper?

any other thoughts you - or anyone else - has about the player/dealer
relationship would be welcome.    thanks