. . ...

_____

SELECTED
SECRETS

The Slate Library of Victoria

" A L M A CONJURING C O L L E C T I O N "

BY

DE VEGA

51 o

e r. Jj

In selecting these Secrets, I have endeavoured

to interest the Fraternity at large. Whether you are a
manipulator, impromptu or spectacular worker I trust you
will find herein some secret that will add to your
reputation as a magician.
The secrets ore chosen from over 300 which I
classified when writing "The Whirlwind of Wizardry" and
while many are not complete tricks or effects in themselves
they are just what adds that little extra touch of smartness
to an uct, or that little effect to fill up a "break.
Uniform with this manuscript, I intend to
publish several other booklets, via:- "Conjuring for
Children", "Thimble Tricks", "Miscellaneous Manipulations",
"Pyrotechnics for Prestidigitators", "Peep Dyed Deviltry"
(Spirit effects) "Ideas for Illusionists" and several
others; particulars of which v.ill be duly announced in the
"Magic Wand" and "The Sphinx".

THAT

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BKCON

MATCH.

In gererel effect this is the old Broken Match;

but v/itr. this differeiioe. You ask someone for a pocket
handkerchief which thjx place on the table. You also
borrow a match which 'is market and placed on the centre
of the handkerchief; the corners are now folded over in
the approved manner. The handkerchief is lifted and
several spectators are allowed to feel the match through
the folds of cambric.
Someone is then requested to break
the match into several pieces. This done, handkerchief is
placed on table once more, hands casually shown empty; the
folds unfolded and the match is found completely restored.
The Secret depends on a little pull which is
worn in the right sleeve , to the end of which is attached
a small cloth bag with a match in it. A finger ring with
a small sharp hook is also worn on second or third finger.
'Chile match is being marked and placed in the handkerchief
you stand with your hands behind your back. At same time
get possession of the above described pull from the right
sleeve' and secure a corner of the little cloth bag to the
sharp hook on the finger-ring. The pull of the elastic
will keep it in Place. V/hen you lift the folded handkerchief
containing the match from the Table you place it over the
right hand, and as you again lift the folded foulard you
grasp the bag containing the Duplicate match, which is
thus detached from the hook. It is this match which the
spectators are allowed to feel ana break. In unfolding the
handkerchief and placing on table there is ample opportunity
to allow the false to return to the sleeve ; and there is
nothing left to toll the tale.

iOpen f-/er<>

For tin Inchnp

i ii
Brokentfjfif)
i

- CLOTH

6A6

PULL

hjaok.
F/h/OER

R/K/6

SELF

IGNITING

IOVE

PAN.

In working tho old Povc Pan did you never feci

stupid - after breaking the eggs etc. into the pan - to
deliberately set them on fire - would it not be much more
mysterious for the contents to "accidentally" catch fire
as you are warming them over the candlc, being morehumorous to the audience too; and gives you an opportunity
for some good bye play before finally clashing on the lid..
The effect, like so many other good effects is
beautifully simple: and- is our old friend the fire bowl
in a new guise.
Take your Dove pan and have a small cup
in soldered to it -}" from bottom - this cup is
perforated; accompanying sketch should make all clear.

ji.ii

To present, load this cup with a small piece of

metal potassium. Your bottle contains a mixture of petrol
and water and is poured over the ingredients in the usual
way. See that none of this liquid comes into contact with
the potassium in the cup. Light your candle; hold pan
over flame to "cook" contents. While pattering tilt pan
so that liquid comes into contact with the potassium and
you will have a.lovely burst of flame; apparently a real
accident especially if you have "thrown" a "borrowed"
handkerchief among- the contents.' '^However, you subdue' the
flames and all's well that ends well.
KNOTTED CHANGING SILKS.
, A Blue silk is shown with a yellow one tied
round it as shown in Fig. This is held in the left hand
and stroked with tho right; when the silks are seen to have
changed places the blue being tied round the yellow.
This is merely a; variation of the well known
Geldin. Colour change. The blue silk being, a bag lined
with yellow and has a'blue silk tied (and sewn) round its
centre. : Figures should make all clear. Note the silks,
are diagonal in shape and the double silk diamond shape.
This takes up much less space fhan if they were all square:
use at least 18 inch silks as it is impossible to make this
effect raith a smaller silk and look natural.

SPLINT EES J - THE VANISHING BALL.

Effect.
A white ball - say the last of the 4 at fingertips is placed in a small cup shupod reoeptio'lo ufctaohed to the wand,
a sheet of paper about 6 x 8
is shown both sides. The wand
with the ball balanced in tho small oup is held in the left hand
as in Fig.l. Tho email sheet of papur is lowered in front of the
ball, until the bottom edge just hides the ball from view. Note
the hand holds the paper by the top edge, and is obviously too
far away from tho ball to assist in the vanish,
Now in this condition paper spontaneously bursts into flame and
the ball is gone.
Explanation:- Tho ball is a solid ball with a cat-gut loop:
Tho wand is a hollow metal tube and oup is attached to a piston
which can be raised a matter of 4 or 5 inches when the piston
is raised. An ornamental snake is on wand near end, this is made
to slide.up and down an inch ,or two, and attached to the piston
so that when the snake is pushed up the piston and cup rises; and
the body of snake needless to say is held away from spectators:
the body of snake covers the. slot whioh piston slides in.
Figures should make all clear.
This wand will bear casual examination as there is neither knoh
or slot to be seen as is usual with piston wands:
Presentation.
In whatever way you have led up to this Vanish
you change ball for looped ball if not already using one: Balance
ball in small cup on top of wand: show paper. Lower over ball,
lift again to show ball still there; lower once more, and with
thumb slowly push up snake, which causes piston to rise carrying
upwards the cup and ball. J-et forefinger through loop of cat-gut
allowing the ball to swing behind the hand. Lower cup; Break
needle shaped Flash Tube in upper corner of flash paper. There
is a sheet of flame and the ball is gone, while all are watching
the flame; drop hand to side disposing of the ball in the Pockette.

Those who do not fool inclined tc have the special wand

made; can get almost the same effect by means of en
ordinary wand with a little oup to fit ever the end; only
this means lowering the paper well over the ball to enable
one to get the loop ever forefinger, which is not so clean.
Use only the needle shaped flash tubes they are easily
broken and there is little or no danger of the acid coming
in contact with the fingers. By the way do not try this
with a celluloid or ivorine tall if it came in contact with
the flame it would certainly vanish.

^{JUS-'^t^j..

. Snak,c
WASH EftS.

8 m . vjlrh C M OUT LOOP

WAN D
GTT1N6 LOOP OV(<

Iw

IID\NG SNAKE

THE

VANISHING

CIGARETTE.

Cigarette which the performer is smoking is slowly

pushed into the closed loft hand, and after necessary byplay the hand is opened; no trace of the cigarette is to
be found.
The secret lies in our old friend the thumb tip.
Also a cigarette composed of a hollow tube of paper with
a little shag in the end
(this may be made over a lead
pencil). Wear the thumb tip on the left hand thumb. Light
cigarette and take a puff or two. Show left hand slowly
close with back of hand towards spectators thumb inside
fist. Withdraw thumb leaving tip - which it is almost
needless to say should be a metal one. Now take lit
cigarette from mouth and slowly push into left fist with
rfght hand forefinger;
sometimes pushing with the thumb
instead of the forefinger, and, ultimately carry away the
thumb tip containing the crushed up cigarette on the right
thumb;
.Slowly open the left hand showing the cigarette
to have gone. 3y this time you will have disposed of the
thumb tip.

KKOT V E D

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S,i*r<iL
Pos/T'OM or ThUi-16 TO3

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SILK'S

SILL,

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ROSE

V.

This is a delightful little effect to be worked by

two performers simultaneously. A rose bush is 3een on the
stage from which one of the performers plucks a full blown
red rose the other performer shows a red silk square. They
take up their positions and slowly waving their hands the
two articles change places. The performer with Rose now has
in his hands the silk and the other performer - or lad;y
assistant, the rose.
The main secret is in the folding of a handkerchief
and rolling it into the form of a rose. The silk is taken
and folded cornerwise as shown in Fig. until it is about 16"
long by 2 inches broad. This strip is now taken and wound
round and round itself until it resembles a rose; then it is
secured with a little pin. ".Then neatly made it is undetectable
when placed among some other artificial flowers.
It is held in
place by means of a tie clip on the stem of the plant. The
performer "plucks11 this rose and under cover of a waving
motion withdraws the pin allowing the silk to expand.
The handkerchief to rose is accomplished by means
of a Hollow rose. Procure a cloth millinery flower; take to
pieces and make up again with seccotine round a little tube
resembling the Torpedo handkerchief Vanisher. See Pig.
The method of folding the silk to form the Rose was
shown me many years ago by Mr. H- of Glasgow; whom I have

THE Duping K>.;UT;^OHI>:P gasket .

The Casket measures about 8 Ins. by 3 ins., circular in shape.
Top and bottom there as a metal band, and it is suspended.on a stand
by means of c r a m s which are attached to a metal ball ornament. In
the simplest form o.t presentation 2 handkerchiefs vanished visibly
appear in the casket one after the other.
As the astute reaoer will doubtless have guessed the silks come
from the metal ball which is hollow and divided into 2 compartments
a handkerchief is tucked into each compartment > snd a thread
attached xo the corner of each, threads pass down through holes in
bottom of casket through eyelet in stand and off to the assistant:
or could be made self contained by having a weight rele3-ed in the
hollow stand, in this? method a. pin released by jerformer allows
weight to fall bringing the silk or silks from their place of
concealment.
see Pigs.

' CIGARETTE

TO

FLOWER.

Enter smoking cigarette - take in hand)a slight wave of the

arm and the cigarette becomes a flower.
This effort is entirely self-contained: The cigarette is a
metal tube, and conceals a feather Flower. The Feather FlCwer
is attached to a sort c? plunger which fits fairly tightly into
the Tube. See Fig.
attached to this plunger is a slender
rod which projects from *dold Tipped" end of cigarette on '
pushing this itod in with the ~humt the flower is pushed out. The
flower may te placed in buttonhole, the cigarette being pushed
through the buttonhole and concealing behind the coat lapel.

f"o Flower

q
THE SI, F>IKX fISKIM jPROI-UCTJOH.
{By saurfesy of tlw 'h..agieWani")

Having produced your Ribbons aTA Flag writ he ut approaching

any part cf the person; Tables or Chairs- several pigeons ar*
shaken from the foils of th Flag,
Fig,, 1, Shows the. container; this is mad* on the same principle
as the old sweet producing bag, but of such a size m will hold
three ox four pigeons: The top part is ventilated with eyelet
holes. There is also a ring at the bottom of the bag th use
of which will be explained,
Fig,2. shows the prepared Trey: This has a swivel hock at the
front edge, to which is attached the top ring of bag. V'hen
the tray is held flat. the. bag containing the pigeons will
hang down perpendicularly from the front. Grasp"the end of
the bag and bring it up until it lies flat with the undr
surface of the tray, This will bring the ling at the Bottom
of the bag> to the catch at the hinder nr'tf-e of tray f to which
the latter is fastened, This catch is actuated by'a lever
attached to the handle, so as to release the bag when desired.
;
On tojf
tray is fastened the maW-port'fwr
fastener, the other part feeing sewn'to1a small square'of
leather fastened to the centre of the flag. The flag should
measure about 4 ft. x 5ft. at least.

The Tray with the load fastened as described underneath is

brought on by assistant, the tray being carried on edge -wise,
top facing audience. The load facing assistant's body.
After displaying Flag, catch it by the centre (seeing that the
clip is not covered by the folds) and place it ever the tray.
The assistant at the same moment brings the tray up to the
Horizontal position to allow the flag to be placed over it,
and releases the bolt catch controlled from the handle. The
moves must be thoroughly rehearsed and well timed in order
not to expose the load, which now hangs perpendicular from
front edge of fray concealed by the folds of the'flag.
The object of the glove fastener on troyis to prevent the
flag from accidentally falling and thus exposing the load.

Sleeves now pulled well back and music stopped, flag is very
delibrately lifted from tray and with the load. The pigeons
are released in the sam manner as tho confectionary in the
old effect.

The use of the Tray may be done away with and load obtained
from assistant's back,or the bag may havu two compcrtmfcnts
one of which contains small rabbit which is released on the
tray - which provides a legitimate use for the tray; and
before the spectators have recovered from their suprise at the
appearance of bunny you have shaken from the flag a showtr of
fluttering pigeons.

IO

CIGARETTE

AiJD

11

MATCH.

Effect - A cigarette thrown into the left hand changes

to a match; the missing cigarette being produced from
foot of trousers or elsewhere.
This neat little effect depends on the use of
the sleeve. Those who have any doubt about "sleeving"
an article; all I can say is see H JARROW" at close
quarters. He is an adept at making use of the sleeve.
Stand right side towards spectators, hold left
hand about level with waist, palm towards floor, then
throw the cigarette from the right hand into the left
hand, closing the left hand round it, with the thumb push
the cigarette out at top of fist a la method of the
rising cards: at same time finger-palming a match in
the right hand. Remove cigarette from top of left hand
and resume original position.
Once more throw the cigarette towards the left
hand, but this time let it go up the left sleeve, although
you close the left hand as if it contained the cigarette.
Make one or two passes over the closed left hand; with the
right, dropping the finger palmed match into left fist as
it passes over same.^ Open left hand, show match in place
of cigarette.
Strike match and while doing so allow left hand
to fall to side. Cigarette will fall into the hand from
sleeve. Raise foot and produce the cigarette from foot of
trcuser leg. Light and smoke as if nothing unusual had
taken place.

Shouj/ng CiqarehJ-rs Lmt>

of F/etghh

Droppirxg

M*hch *nfo
Lef-h HdPd.

e/ostj

SILu

FROM

CANDLE

I think almost every conjurer at some time* or

other has produced a silk from the flame of a candle, via
the matchbox. Wouldn't it be nice to produce any colour
selected or several in succession.
To enable the performer to produce the above
effect, several han dicer chiefs of different colours are
rolled in the usual manner and have a ^oop of gut or waxed
thread attached to them. In this condition they are placed
in a series of little black art wells on the table top.
After lighting candle, in the act of placing
matchbox on table in front of well containing selected
coloured silk, you get your thumb through the loop;
bringing away the silk, which is ultimately produced
from the flame; in placing the materialized silk on the
table you may obtain a second one and so on, as long as
supply lasts.
Hands may be shown back and front if desired,
by means of the usual looped ball sleights, although I
do not approve of this; it is not magic but manipulation.

Srr^H

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Silk, from U*>H

fernpmbvr
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THE SKETCH liATERXAIISEH.

13

3 sets of wooden needlework hoops are used, or if

expense is no object 3 sets of tambourine rings. Each set of
hoops has a sheet of white paper stretched across it as in the
familiar Tambourine production. Now you may either hold the
rings in your left hand or suspend from a stand on table,
steadying it with the left hand while you proceed to paint or
sketch the objects you intend to materialise, say a little
statue of lather Zmas; or a Cupid Doll; a bouquet of Flowers
and a Tumbler of Milk. First you sketch and colour doll, then
burst the paper with your right hand, producing from it the real
article. The next hoop is taken and drawing of flowers executed.
These are materialized in the same way. The third set of hoops
are now fixed in position, and a sketch of a Tumbler of Milk or something stronger - drawn, -and upon the right hand being thrust
through the paper, the glass of liquid is produced.
The explanation of above consists in the secret use
of three fakes; of the shape shown in accompanying drawing.
The second finger of left hand is slipped through the flesh
coloured ring and the fake with its load allowed to lie along
the back of the hand. In this way the left hand either holds or
supports the hoop while sketch is being executed, .it will be
seen that the mere bending inward of the fingers" brings the load
exactly behind the circle of paper. The right hand has only to
burst paper; take the load from clips and produce.
In experimenting with above, I found it best to have
the loads with their fakes in three separate pockets in the
left coat tail the openings a little below the top of the
profonde; the discarded fakes being dropped into the profonde
itself. Of course other places of concealment could be used
such as behind a chair etc.
The glass containing, the liquid has a glass disc on
top; in place of the usual rubber cover. This does away with
the necessity of removing cover but requires more careful
handling and is not practical for loading from the pocket;
. but for general use I suggest glass 3/4 full of liquid (white
or wine coloured) with a disc permanently cemented to top;
the effect is the,same and saves a lot of trouble - and perhaps
mess. Of course, if dpsired, tho usual rubber cover could be
used and retained in the hand, but I'm afraid moves would be
anything but clean.

PrnJoc/Oij
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FOUR

ACES

AND :

! J.'

In this effect the four aces are taken from a

pack of playing cards; placed in an envelope which is
sealed. The envelope is now deposited on a small stand
where everyone can see it.
Three ordinary school slates are shown;cleaned
and marked "by a voluntary assistant. The slates in this
condition are left xn charge of the assistant while
performer explains what is about to take place - merely
stating that the cards will leave the envelope and be
found between the previously examined slates.
A lighted candle is*now brought into contact
with the envelope - there is a flash; and in place of
the four aoes there is a grinning devil's head; The
assistant is requested to separate the slates; and upon
doing so the missing aces are found adhering to one of
them accompanied with a message of good luck written in
chalk.
. ;
- f; The envelope into; which a the f our. aces, .are ..:
placed?is"-changed" for orie "containing; a devil' s;head;
(Dermisoh's cut-out for Hallowe'en). 'The envelope is
made of Black Flash Paper (you will find complete instructions for the manufacture of this given under Flash Paper
Secrets - described later). I suggest making a dozen or
more of these envelopes, and using the ordinary card
change; or the envelope may be switched if you do not
wish to make up so many.
The four duplicate aces - for of course there
are duplicates - have been previously stuck to one of the
slates with a dab of wax and sufficient space left to
allow of a short message being written. The necessary
moves to show slate unprepared are fully described in
"Jardine Ellis' Secrets" pages 1 6 - 2 1 .
The ordinary slate with flap may be employed
instead, or the Stanley Collin's method may be used; but
for convincing presentation, I have never come across
a method to equal 'that of the late Jardine Ellis. It will
certainly repay the performer who takes the trouble to.
1
master the moves.
-; '
'

This combination in my opinion lifts the four

ace experiment from the rut of an ordinary card experiment
and mokes the spirit message more- entertaining, while
the unexpected appcaranoo of the head of Mephistophelcs
just gives the sudden surprise that is needed to rouse
the audience before the climax.
The head out out should be soaked in a solution
of Alum to prevent any chance of it catching fire when
the envelope is ignited.

BUBBLE

BLOWING

SECRET.

The following secret toughens the bubbles so

that they will stand much more handling than the ordinary
Castile Soap solution.
Shave some laundry soap - a piece about an inch
square into a pint of hot-water. When this is quite
dissolved add one dessertspoonful of Gum Arabic and stir
till melted, then one teospoonful of Glycerine, nd
lastly another pint of cold water. The cold water is
necessary because otherwise the bubbles would be inclined
to breaks but very hot water must be used in the first
place to dissolve the soap. The glyoerine makes the
bubbles more brilliant while the Gum Arabic gives them
elasticity.

fou*. Aces

$h>nc/ vi eJ.
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ft

VZSS

Aim

B'AIBK

SUPEEKS!

In this version, of the wine and water, the effect

is varied just at the point; where an element of surprise is
appreciated. The usual effect is Red Wine, Water, Red Wine,
Water and so on. Only in the earlier explanations docs one
find a variety of drinks poured from the decanter. The
pffect of the present form is as follows:From a plain glass jug of water (the mouth of which
may be wiped) the performer pours in succession, Wine; Water;
'Wine; Water; Green Chartreuse, Water. All are drinkable with
the. except ion of glass No. 5 the drink for an Irishman: the
contents of the glasses are returned to the jug whereupon all
change to water as at the commencement.
The preparation of the jug and glasses is as
follows:
Jug:

1 pint Water; to which is added as much

Soliclate of Soda as w111 cover a 2/- piece,
also 10 . to. 15 drops of Liquor Potasses.
.1JJXL_0J
JLejr.6CL.-i-C)../dCiz^o^H^liv ^ e . v ^ o a . ...v.,.... ;
.... ;
'Gla3s.vHo.lv 2 drop'sof HnctureFdfTIron" (Steel Drops)
Glass No. 2. Empty.

Glass No.5. A few drops of Phenol-phathaleine dissolved

in alcohol.
Glass No.4. Empty.
Glass No.5. 2 Teaspoonfuls of a saturated solution of
Sulphate of Copper.
Glass No.6. A teaspoonful of strong tartaric acid
;
solution.
v
The above quantities may require to be altered
slightly in different districts, it will deoend on the
water supply, as different filter beds affect the
chemicals.
u
. - If you should find the last change to,water inclined, to be slow.use Oxalic Acid in place of the Tartaric,

but remembar it is POISONOUS.

I think if you have any doubt
ah out the last ohango, it is "better to make a habit of using
tho Oxalio Aoid than ohango from one to the other. I do
not bolisvo in changing from a drinkable solution to a
poisonous one, in the same effect; sometime you may forget
which chemical you aro employing with serious results. But
why taste or drink the lust glass at all; it is not pleasant
at the best, and adds nothing to. the effeot.
The introduction of tho "drink for an Irishman"
gives scopefor some new and humorous patter but I will not
go into that horo as this is a book of seorots.

THE VERNON BANK NOTE TRICK.

A one pound Treasury note is borrowed, torn into
a number of pieces and restored; not as the original note,
but as a strip of paper 15 inches long by 1-g- inches-printed
on it is 1. 1. 1. 1. l.:-l. This is torn into six
parts, and offered to the owner; performer appears surprised
at it being rejected;'(good scope for patter here) remarking
that he is offering him 6 to 1. However the lender does not
see it in this light, so performer has to get to work once
more burning the pieces and showing his hands unmistakably
empty; from the ashes he produces the original note, the
number of which is verified.
Of course the borrowed note is not torn but is
exchanged for a "home made one* The method I suggest for
this is to have a little rod with a-clip at the end. Note
is borrowed, number noted; and folded several times, then
fixed by the lender in the small clip, performer stating
that he does not handle it at all. This small rod and clip
has a duplicate clip with the imitation note in it. This
normally lies in the palm of the hand, and after genuine
note is placed in the exposed clip the performer on way back
to platform,reverses the ends; bringing the genuine note
into the paim.of the hand. Imitation note is taken from
clip, unfolded and number read' out* J .' (If you have a
memory like mine omit this part of the effect). The note
is now torn into a number of pieces.

The slip of paper with the l repeated several

times on it i3 eoroealed in a thumb tip worn on the left
hand. The torn pieces are exchanged for the strip of
paper and in replacing the thumb tip, on top of the torn
pieces insert the borrowed note: thus your hands only
contain the strip of paper. After sufficient by-play
with this paper you buna same and under cover of rubbing
the ashes you extract tho genuine note from the thumb tip;
replacing the tip; open the note and have the number
checked.
The effect is Mr. Harry Vernon's, and arose
during a discussion on new effects at a meeting of the
S.C.A. The novel points appealed to me, so we set about
to work it out and tho above is the result.
In U.S.A. uee

note and strip marked Jtl five

t imes,

ox
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Circle?.
FLUSH

PAPER

SCRETS.

FIASH

PAPEE .SECRETS.

Why have conjurors bean content for so long to

use the ordinary flash paper as supplied by the dealer?
Other articles used by vveilders of the wand have been overhauled and improved time and again; but flash paper has been
left severely alone.
I do not advocate the manufacture of flash paper,
which at the best is not a nice job, and a far more satisfactory article can be bought ready made; but the "raw
material" may be improved in many ways. For instance who
has not wished at some time or other for a piece of dark
flash paper, when covering writing on a sheet of paper as
in Noakes
Spirit Message Frame or to conceal from view the
pips of a playing card. I have already given an example of
the use's of dark flash paper on pages .15 and 16 of this
booklet.

To make Dark Flash Paper get a large photographic

developing dish and into this pour about
a pint of
Methylated Spirits in which Jias been dissolved a teaspoonful
of each of the following'dyeV: ' -Aniline, Green and Methyl
Violet. 'This gives a'muoh darker shade of paper than if
black dye were used. Black (Higrosin) gives a grey shade of
paper.
Sheets of ordinary flash paper are soaked in
above preparation for about 10 minutes, then thoroughly
rinsed under the tap and-allowed to dry. .
The process in no wise affects the combustion of
the paper and although not actually biaok is quite opaque.

This paper on being ignited vanishes with a dazzling

white flash. To make, rinse some sheets of the flash paper
in a weak solution of gum, and dust with Magnesium Powder or
photographic flash powder. The latter with an aluminium base
is preferable as it is a much finer powder . When dry the
metallic coating is invisible.
Supposing you intend to vanish a coin from the paper
(usual fold). Take your paper and with a brush and some thick
paste make a circle on the paper corresponding in size with
the coin you intend to use. - The paste must be put on very
thinly. - Dust on the flash powder, shake off all loose

ao

powder, when dry. This circle is practically invisible when

paper is casually shown; but before you flash off pkper, after
extracting the coin, you should hold the folded paper between
the flame of a candle and the spectators. The coated part of
the paper will show as a dark circle which is a perfect
resemblance to the coin.
'.>.;.;,'
When the paper is flashed off; it burns with the
usual coloured flame, until it comes to the powder - then there
is a dazzling flash - apparently consuming the coin.
EXPLOSIVE PLASH PAPER.
Doubtless everyone is familiar with the "orack-shot
pictures" which when touched with a lighted cigarette a line
of fire runs across the picture and terminates with a bang; If
not Standard Firework Co. Huddersfield can supply them in
packets.
To, prepare this variety of flash paper, take the
little pellets of fulminate taken from the back of the
pictures; (I do not propose to go into the manufacture of the
explosive here, as,it is a dangerous mixture and not worth
while trying, to make it).- Secure this'.little pellet to the
piece' of vf.lash-paper -with, a touch- of - gum: and- all ! is ready.
Again we will take for example the vanish of a coin.
Paper flashes off as usual; but when the flame comes to the
explosivae, there is a decided report which adds greatly to
the effect: Caps used for toy pistols are useless for the
above.
COLOURED.FLASH PAPER.
If you wish to colour flash paper yourself, procure
that- which has not an already coloured flame, and soak in a
solution of the following chemicals for the various colours.
Strength of solution should be about 1.teaspoonful of
powder to 1. gill of water.
:..-;. ; u ;
Red:
Soak in: solution
Green: . .* .. ' ."/
Blue:
. " ., " .
Yellow: "
'.",

of Nitrate of Strontium.
. '" ;.OhlOrate, of Barium.
" Nitrate of Copper.
" -Oxalate of Soda.
.

THIS MECHANICAL DEVIL'S WHISPER.

(By Courtesy of tho Magio Wand)

The effect of tho "Devil's Whisper" is well known,

as is that of my improvement, which I sold as "Satan's
Announcement".
To those who do not caro to handle the
extremely sensitive chemicals used in the manufacture of
the original article I offer this substitute; which, while
not giving the report of the chemical compound;
produces
a very mysterious flash at the finger tips; and has the
advantage of being perfectly safe and harmless.
Another
advantage is that it will not deteriorate with exposure
to the air.
The accompanying illustration shows the construction of the appliance more clearly than words can describe
it.
It is the lighting portion taken from a pocket
lighter; made smaller and soldered to a flesh coloured
finger ring at the angle shown in sketon. The fake is
slipped over the second finger when it is required, and
tho thumb- b^ing. drawn .across the small :wheel causes a
series of vivid sparks to appear at the finger tips.
When sparks become weak a new flint may be easily
inserted.
It will be obvious that this fake will lend
itself to many uses.. Those who are interested in the
Genuine Devil's Whisper will find it explained in minute
detail further on.

Screw piutj

THE

DEVIL'S

WHISPER.

23

Members of the fraternity are doubt.1 ess aware fchat

the above title applies to the explosion at the finger-tips;
which very effectively takes the place of the revolver.
Mr. George Johnston first presented the formula to
the profession in Stanyons "Magic n for March 1907 under the
title of "A New Faust Flash".
In this form the chemicals are mixed on a small
square of flash paper an ordinary B.B. shot added; and the
whole screwed up; forming a throw-down Cracker of a very
"touchy'' variety. Next we find it described in detail in
Stanyon's "Fire & Chemical Magic" (Third Series) as "The
Devil's Whisper" or Explosion at the finger tips. While
Mr. Stanyon gives explicit directions for the handling of
the chemicals but leaves one with a quality of the loose
powder to handle, which in my opinion leads to carelessness.
At first only a small pinch is mixed and used as directed
and when as the performer gains confidence and mixes more,
then sooner or later there is bound to be an accident.
Already there have been some serious accidents with this
explosive;} , one recorded in the "Magic World" wherein an
amateur ''lorslra 'finger;"and 'only'Tast'"sedsbii ;thr6ugh thc';
"Sphinx* we hear of a! performer in the United States losing
his hand. Many other minor-'accidents have taken place. The
pity Is that all these accidents could have been avoided if
reasonable care had been exercised in the handling of the
chemicals, 'My advice is; in experimenting or using chemicals,
especially explosives, be methodical and keep strictly to
the directions. Such a simple action as placing a stopper in
the wrong bottle may bo attended with serious results; one
cannot be too careful.
However, I will get ahead with the explanation.
After experimenting with the compound for some time, I hit
upon a plan which made the "whispers" tolerably safe. These
I sold as"Satan J s Announcement"! In this form the explosive
pellets could be handled or even carried in the pocket.
Houdini and Chris Van Bern were the only performers with
whom I shared the secret, which later I explained in the
"Magic Circular" and now for the first time I make the secret
really public, property; but remember these are not childrens
throw-down crackers, to be banged off by every purchaser of
a shilling book On magic } and even as I describe, the
mixture is far too dangerous to be played with.

The Chemicals are:Amorphus Phosphorus

Chlorate of Potash

/ (He!).

(Pulverised).

Keep these well apart J.T- ALT. TIMES.; (I keep my supply in

separate kettles at different ends of my hamper) and on no
account use' the same lifter to measure with.'- Do not he
tempted to mix more than I state. Keep to the actual
directions'and there is 'Little or no danger. Some readers
may think this is overdone, but remember in this case.it is
too late to bo sorry, so SAFETY FIRST, Keep your face well
away while mixing. Get a couple of sheets of tissue paper;
fold them into a little pad about 4. inches square. Take
another piece about 8 x 6 in. fold into a strip about 3in.
by -g-", smoothing down any sharp corners. Get 2 strips of
card 3 in. by -|r in. as lifters. Write potash on one and
Phos. on the other, and on 110 account use them to lift a
chemical other than that marked on them. Next cut a sheet
of tissue paper into 1" squares. Now get a small lump of
coal and grind it to a coarse powder about 1/32 of an inch
in size.' Now comes the mixing. lift as much Amor;Phos. as
would cover a 3d piece (or Dime) not heaped; and place on
pad. With the OTHER lifter take the same quantity of potash
and place beside the phosphorus. Again take as much potash
as cover a 3d piece and place on pad; this give3 you twice
as much potash as. phosphorus^-- With.-the paper mix the two
chemicals together until they combine"* in a greyish powder,
using no pressure; but merely a smoothing movement moving .
the powders to and fro. Any pressure will explode the
mixture. Do not mix more than I state, it will save no
time or labour, as the mixture will not keep for any length
of time.
Presuming you have correctly mixed the chemicals,
take your little squares- of paper, place them in a row and
put a little coal g'rit on each paper. Next place on each
paper on top of the coal grit as much of the mixture as would
equal in size the head of a match. USING THE PAPER LIFTER.
You will find the quantities given will make about two dozen
"whispers"Lift the papers carefully and screw each one
into a little pellet, which in size will he less than a pea,
and trim off the ends of the paper; gou will now be able to
handle these with reasonable care, without them going off.
When I made these at first I added Stearine grated
to a fine powder adding a pinch to each pellet. The idea
being that the waxy substance would "set* the mixture and
prevent it rubbing and thus decreasing the liability to

25
explode. The heat of the fingers in screwing up the pellets
being sufficient to bind all together.
In practice, however,
I later found this could be dispensed with, sp have not
included it in the Formula.
When you wish to use> take a "whisper" between the
thumb and second finger. Press firmly; then snap the
fingers with as much force as you can command. You may feel
a slight stinging sensation in the fingers, but not nearly
so bad as in the old method with the loose powder.

Readers who have been looking for a new and

wonderful secret, may be disappointed, but let them try the
old method with the loose explosive then revert to the
pellets, and they will find the advantage of the present
form, and, I think, will agree that the "Devil's Whisper"
has at last really been made into a practical accessory,
that can be used in any place, and at any time, without
danger.

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CABINET

0?

WONDERS.

iNMMMiiaiiMiMaaiiMiiMinMi

A small wooden oubinet measuring about 12" x 12"

x 20" is introduced and placed on a sheet of glass which is
laid across the hacks of two ohairs. The front of the
cabinet is closed by sliding curtains which meet at the
centre; while the baok is closed by a blind which is pulled
down from the top and secured to the bottom. Top, ends and
bottom are of wood, thus when tho front curtains are opened
and the rear blind raised, it is possible for all to see
right through the Cabinet. The cabinet being shown the
rear blind is pulled down, Tho front curtain being left
open. All is now in readiness for the spirits to commence
their work.
The First Test consists of a bell and a tambourine
being placed in the Cabinet. Front curtains closed bell
rings and tambourine plays.
Seoond Test. An examined whistle is placed in a
glass tumbler which is deposited in the cabinet, the
curtains being left open. Whistle blows.
Third. Test.
Several..,cards are selected from the
pack, also "a sheet of examined paper is placed in a frame.
A packet of Photographic post cards is given to one of the
spectators to select one. Frame placed in cabinet and in
front of it the glass containing the cards. The selected
cards rise one by one from the glass*,while an enlarged
reproduction of the selected photograph appears on the
paper in tho frame. The entire manifestations are visible
to all- tho curtains again being left open..
Fourth Test. Cabinet shown empty. Rear curtain
or blind raised and lowered again, front curtains closed.
When again opened the cabinet is filled with real flowers
and a pair of pigeons.
The illustrations show in detail the construction
of the cabinet. The arched top conceals the load of flowers,
some genuine, others of the spring variety,to increase the
display. The doves are also concealed in the same enclosure
which must be provided with air holes.
The base of top is
hinged to rear edge, and secured with a catch; which when
released allow it to fall down; covering the blind at the
back, and being painted the same colour is apparently still
the blind, the load being dropped to the bottom of cabinet.

2*7

Teat No. 1 is accomplished by means of a thread

which runs through the cabinet from side, to side; and is
operated by an assistant stationed in the wings or behind
the screen.
The Bell and Tambourine are provided with small
hooks which the performer hooks over the thread. Thus at
the given signal, by assistant pulling the thread bell and
tambourine are caused to play.
Test No. 2. is our.old friend the duplicate whistle
in the sleeve blown by pressure of the arm on a rubber bulb.
Test No. 3- is explained by the use of the
mechanical pack so far as the rising cards are concerned
and Gamages "Mystographs" account for the photograph slowly
developing in full view, in the frame. The reason for
working the rising cards in conjunction with this effect is;
I have found Mystographs rather slow when worked alone, and
the rising of the cards from the pack occupy the attention
while the picture is appearing.
Test No. 4. I have already explained.
When put
over with good showmanship, this combination of effects is
very convincing. Of course other effects could be added at
the discretion of the performer.

 WILL ALMA
M.I.M.C.

(LONDON)

-Y

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