CHAPTER IV

THE TRICK THAT FAILED

Back in London--At the Westminster Aquarium--“The Pro.’s Casual Ward”--Zæo’s Maze--“Oriental beauties from the Far East-End of London”--“Fake” side-shows--A “fasting lady’s” prodigious appetite--A lively subject for a coffin--I sell conjuring tricks to visitors--“Uncle” Ritchie--An audience of one-- Annie Luker, the champion lady high diver--I find myself barred from the Aquarium--The mysterious voice in the maze--Mr. Ritchie investigates--And Mr. Wieland scores--Penny-gaffing in London--Working the shops--Sham hypnotism--How to eat coal and candles--And drink paraffin oil--The box trick again --Venice in Newcastle--I offer a £1000 prize--The trick that failed--My first engagement in a regular “hall”--My absent-minded partner 41