Uncle Peter’s Corner

Manawatu Times, Volume 64, Issue 41, 18 February 1939, Page 14

Uncle Peter’s Corner

Fig.—a—The Chinese Coin This is a trick which is practiced by professional jugglers the world over. To perform this trick two exactly similar coins must be used. They must have holes in the centre. Ask one of the spectators to take one of the coins and thread it on a cord as shown on fig. 1. Borrow a handkerchief and placo it over the coin on the cord, fig. 2. Tell now, at great length, that you intend to tie a knot in the cord in-order to make the trick more difficult. For this purpose put your hand under the handkerchief. Read carefully now, for this is how the trick is done. Hidden in your hand hold another coin of exactly the same kind as the one on the cord. This coin must be threaded on the cord as shown in figs. 3,4, 5 and 6. When this is done, cover the first coin with your hand, excusing the movement under the

pretence that the cord must be pulled tighter. Pull the hand holding the coin further and further towards the end of the cord, taking the nearest end of the cord out of your helper’s hand for a moment. Ask him very politely to hold the cord exactly as you now show him. This gives a moment in which to take the coin from the cord. Go a step away and tell the audience that you will now take the coin from the cord despite the fact that it is held at both ends. Now there will, certainly be a desire voiced to see that the coin is still on the cord. With apologies for not having offered this before, lift the handkerchief away, hold a glass under the coin, let the assistant count to three, and at “three”

Fig.—b—A Balancing Race In this game, which can be played in turns, or altogether, a certain distance has to be covered whilst balancing a ruler or a short round stick on one finder. The race can be round the whole house, or up and down the stairs. The participants take it in turn to act as judge. Seo who is the cleverest.

give the coin a slight tap with the magic wand. The coin will fall into | the glass and the trick is played.