Cigarette Perception

This is an impromptu blindfold test that can be done at any time or place and is always interesting because of the novelty.

The performer says that through an extremely acute sense of smell he is able to tell different brands of cigarettes purely through a slight smell of the smoke.

About four of those present are asked to take cigarettes, each holding a different brand. We shall assume they have Lucky Strikes, Chesterfields, Old Golds and Camels. The performer is blindfolded with a handkerchief and asks that the four spectators now light their cigarettes.

One at a time and in mixed order, these four spectators approach the performer and pass the burning cigarette under his nose, and each time he instantly and correctly names the correct brand. And finally he requests that two come near and hold both cigarettes close at the same time, the correct brands being instantly named!

The secret is another of those nice little ideas that are always so welcome.

In the beginning the performer sees that four people each have a cigarette of a different brand and these four are placed three or four yards away from him in readiness. However, the performer, knowing the brand held by each, merely takes notice of their shoes! There will always be a difference and a glance at each is all that is necessary.

There is no reason why the performer can’t have noted these even before starting the effect itself. The blindfold of a handkerchief means nothing more than it ever has and the performer looking downward can see a good two and a half feet in front of him.

Therefore, when one of the four approaches and holds a cigarette out, there is no doubt in the performer’s mind as to the identity of the person and also the brand of the cigarette.