Feb. 27, 1939

Dear Ted;

‘Way back when The Jinx was a toddler in knee pants I remember you wanted subscribers to send in their little problems in the hope that, two heads being better than one, a solution could be reached. Since then I have run into something. A stone wall ! Possibly you can help me.

Effect: Magi shows a cardboard container with no top, to all appearances unprepared. Inside is a small bulb which is hooked up to regular house current. A piece of red tissue paper is placed over the mouth of the container and held in place by a rubber band.

The small bulb is turned on and other lights put out. Magus takes his seat about three feet from the container so the light strikes him full in face. People are about six feet away from him. Visibly the facial characteristic of the magician change to those of other people, not just one, but of different ones. At finish, lights go on and there you are.

Now, and here is where I may be condemned. I saw this done at a spiritualist’s (?) seance! It is the bare effect as I saw it. I know d—– well the medium is a faker because I bought the same method for his billet act some time ago. I can’t figure the face effect though, and think it would be excellent for house parties and clubs if doped out.

Sincerely,

Charles Rose