Modern Magic: A Practical Treatise on the Art of Conjuring

The mode of using the box will require little explanation. Any number of objects, not overpassing the limits we have mentioned, may be placed in the box, which, being then turned over, can be shown apparently empty. The box being replaced in its normal position, the articles are again within it, and can be produced at pleasure. The effect of “inexhaustibility” is produced as follows:--Each time that the performer turns over the box to show that it is empty, he takes from the servante, or from his pockets, and places upon a b, a fresh supply of articles, to be produced as soon as the box is again right side upwards. It should be mentioned that the hinge at b is made to act freely, so that the bottom may by its own weight retain its position when the box is turned over, and not turn over with the box. Some boxes are made with a catch or pin at some part of a, so as to prevent a b falling prematurely while the box is being placed on the table, or while the performer carries round the box, and shows that, inside and out, it is without preparation. This, however, the performer may safely do, even without the use of any catch or fastening, by taking care to grasp the box, when carrying it, by its front edge, with his fingers inside it. The fingers will thus press b c closely against the front of the box, and will thereby effectually prevent a b from shifting its position. The box is, of course, in the case supposed, really empty. The performer has therefore to make an opportunity for introducing what may be needful into it; this he may do by remarking as he replaces it on his table, “You are by this time, ladies and gentlemen, tolerably well satisfied that there is nothing in this box; but for the greater satisfaction of those who may not have been able to see the interior as I carried it round, I will once more show you that it is absolutely empty.” So saying, he turns it over, and once more shows the interior, at the same time placing on a b whatever article he designs to produce.