That produced the greatest uproar yet, and, looking at his watch, when the noise subsided, Frank announced:
"The thirty minutes of free entertainment is over, ladies and gentlemen, and now we come to the real show, for the following feats will include the most famous marvels performed by Zolverein himself. Those who wish may go now and collect their money at the box office, but I guarantee satisfaction for all who remain. If at the conclusion of the performance anybody is dissatisfied, he may call at the box office then and his money will be refunded. I shall begin the regular performance with the 'Miraculous Wineglasses,' which will be remembered as one of Prof. Zolverein's favorite feats. Prof. Pombal, something lively, please."
The pianist was ready, and he struck into a rollicking tune that was calculated to set the blood of the listeners dancing.
While the pianist was playing, Frank retired behind the scenes to change his coat and make arrangements for the trick he was about to attempt.
"I congratulate you, young man!" he exclaimed. "You have done well so far, but you are going it a little too steep."
"In guaranteeing satisfaction at the end of the show. Even Zolverein himself wouldn't do that, for there's always a few soreheads who are never satisfied, and when one man walks up and calls for his money others are encouraged to do the same."
"Don't let that worry you, Mr. Burnham. I'll stand for every dollar you have to refund."
That seemed to relieve the manager's apprehensions somewhat, but he went on:
"Then you made a mistake in promising so much in the performance to come. You can do your own tricks all right, but when it comes to Zolverein's----"
"Wait, Mr. Burnham. You are not competent to judge till you have seen what I can do. I shall have the assistance of Monsieur Mazarin in doing his most difficult feats."
"But I'm afraid you will bungle one of them, and that will ruin everything. One false move in this kind of a show spoils the whole business."
"I am not afraid of making any false moves," he said, carefully arranging his coat. "The little trick I am about to perform is not the simplest on the list. Go out in front and watch me."
Then he walked onto the stage, just as the pianist ceased playing.