[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I do have too many 8-inch heels, which I never get to wear, except for earlier. Uhm, but the free stuff that I get is the free stuff that I get in real life, and that's what we don't like to talk about.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I grew up in Cambridge and one time I went into a store and I forgot my money and they gave me the dress for free.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] When I was a teenager, I was driving with my friend who was an awful driver and she ran a red and of course we got pulled over and


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] All it took was a sorry officer and we were on our way.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Uhm, and I got these free things because of how I look, not who I am. And there are people paying a cost for how they look and not who they are. I live in New York.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] There are only 177,000 young black and Latino men in New York, so for them it's not a question of will I get stopped, but how many times will I get stopped? When will I get stopped?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Don't like their bodies. And that number goes to 78% by the time that they're 17. So the last question people ask me is


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You know, what is it like to be a model? And I think the answer that they're looking for is if you are a little bit skinnier and you have shinier hair.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It's amazing to get to work with creative, inspired, passionate people. And those things are true, but they're only one half of the story. Because the thing that we never say on camera, that I have never said on camera, is I am insecure. And I'm insecure because I have to think about what I look like every day.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Uhm, and if you ever are wondering, you know, if I have thinner thighs and shinier hair, will I be happier?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Uhm, so when I was writing this talk, I found it very difficult to strike an honest balance because on the one hand,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I felt very uncomfortable to come out here and say, look, I've received all these benefits from a deck stacked in my favor. And it also felt really uncomfortable to follow that up with, and it doesn't always make me happy, but mostly it was difficult to unpack a legacy


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] of gender and racial oppression when I'm one of the biggest beneficiaries. Uhm, but.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I'm also happy and honored to be up here and I think that it's great I got to come.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You know, before 10 or 20 or 30 years had passed and I'd had more agency in my career. Because maybe then I wouldn't tell the story of how I got my first job.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Or maybe I wouldn't tell the story of how I paid for college, which seems so important right now.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] If there's a takeaway to this talk, I hope it's that we all feel more comfortable acknowledging the power of image.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] In our perceived successes and our perceived failures. Thank you.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] First listen and then answer the following question. How does the writer like to treat young people?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] People are always talking about the problem of youth. If there is one, which I take leave to doubt, then it is older people who create it, not the young themselves.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Let us get down to fundamentals and agree that the young are after all human beings—people just like their elders


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] There is only one difference between an old man and a young one


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The young man has a glorious future before him and the old one has a splendid future behind him. And maybe that is where the rub is.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] When I was a teenager, I felt that I was just young and uncertain


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] That I was a new boy in a huge school and I would have been very pleased to be regarded as something so interesting as a problem


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] For one thing, being a problem gives you a certain identity, and that is one of the things the young are busily engaged in seeking. I find young people exciting


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They have an air of freedom, and they have not a dreary commitment to mean ambitions or love of comfort.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They are not anxious social climbers, and they have no devotion to material things


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] All this seems to me to link them with life, and the origins of things


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It's as if they were, in some sense, cosmic beings in violent and lovely contrast with us suburban creatures


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] All that is in my mind when I meet a young person


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He may be conceited, ill-mannered, presumptuous or fatuous, but I do not turn for protection to dreary clichés about respect for elders.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I accept that we are equals, and I will argue with him, as an equal, if I think he is wrong


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Please welcome our reigning MasterChef, Sashie Jell-A.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] On a bed of coriander noodles with a lemongrass and coconut broth.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Oh, can I play? But I need that block for my tower. Awww.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I'm going to make a rainbow and I'm going to start it with pretty purple. Purple is my favoritest. It's nearly taller than you, Flot. Is it nearly as tall as me?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Just one more block, all that's left is ruby red. Uh oh, where's ruby red gone? Charlie's got it. Don't kill it Charlie! Ah, squee. Let go Charlie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Here, you can have a squeeze. I need a ruby red for my rainbow. But I need it for the top of my tower.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Look, look Charlie! That's the way the cars go, sliding down the rainbow. This makes you laugh, Charlie. Boo!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Charlie wants the red block back! Come on Charlie, let's do it again!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then, Coco knocked it down, and I was angry.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] So I messed up Coco's rainbow. And then Coco was angry.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then, we made a rainbow tower together. And we both knocked it down. And that was fun. I did like my tower, but it was more fun making rainbow towers with Coco.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Arcane books of forbidden lore, disturbing secrets in the family bloodline, and terrors so unspeakable, the very thought of them might drive you mad.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] By now, these have become standard elements in many modern horror stories. But they were largely popularized by a single author, one whose name has become an adjective for the particular type of terror he inspired.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Born in Providence, Rhode Island in 1890, Howard Phillips Lovecraft grew up admiring the gothic horror stories written by Edgar Allan Poe and Robert Chambers.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But by the time he began writing in 1917, World War I had cast a long shadow over the arts.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] People had seen real horrors and were no longer frightened of fantastical folklore.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Lovecraft sought to invent a new kind of terror. One that responded to the rapid scientific progress of his error.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] In the color out of space, a strange meteorite falls near a farmhouse, mutating the farm into a nightmarish hellscape.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] At the Mountains of Madness is written as a report of an Antarctic expedition that unearths things better left undiscovered.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] In others, mathematics themselves become a source of horror, as impossible geometric configurations wreak havoc on the minds of any who behold them.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Like then recent discoveries of subatomic particles or x-rays, the forces in Lovecraft's fiction were powerful, yet often invisible and indescribable.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Rather than recognizable monsters, graphic violence, or startling shocks, the terror of Lovecraftian horror lies in what's not directly portrayed, but left instead to the dark depths of our imagination.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Lovecraft's dozens of short stories, novellas, and poems often take place in the same fictional continuity with recurring characters, locations, and mythologies.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But beneath the surface of this seemingly similar reality lie dark masters, for whom Earth's inhabitants are mere playthings.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] More like primordial forces than mere deities, Lovecraft's great old ones lurk at the corners of our reality.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Being such as Yogg-Sothoth, who froths his primal slime in nuclear chaos beyond the nethermost outposts of space and time, or the blind idiot god Azothoth,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Lovecraft's protagonists, often researchers, anthropologists, or antiquarians, stumble onto hints of their existence. But even these indirect glimpses are enough to drive them insane.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And if they survive, the reader is left with no feeling of triumph, only cosmic indifference. The terrible sense that we are but insignificant specks at the mercy of unfathomable forces.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But perhaps the greatest power these creatures had was their appeal to Lovecraft's contemporaries.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] During his lifetime, Lovecraft corresponded with other writers, encouraging them to employ elements and characters from his stories in their own.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] References to Lovecraftian gods or arcane tomes can be found in many stories by his pen pals, such as Robert E. Howard and Robert Bloch.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Today, this shared universe is called the Cthulhu Mythos, named after Lovecraft's infamous blend of dragon and octopus.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Unfortunately, Lovecraft's Fear of the Unknown found a less savory expression in his personal views. The author held strong racist views, and some of his works include crude stereotypes and slurs.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But the rich world he created would outlive his personal prejudices. And after Lovecraft's death, the Cthulhu mythos was adopted by a wide variety of authors, often reimagining them from diverse perspectives that transcend the author's prejudices.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Despite his literary legacy, Lovecraft was never able to find financial success.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He died unknown and penniless at the age of 46, a victim of the universe's cosmic indifference.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But his work has inspired numerous short stories, novels, tabletop games, and cultural icons.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Lovecraftian Horror will have a place in the darkest corners of our imagination.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Want to take a stab at creating your own horror stories? Check out this video for some tips on how to add suspense to your writing.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Listening Library presents Magic Treehouse Merlin Missions, Book Number 22. Hurry up, Houdini! This is Mary Pope Osborne.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Early one summer evening, Jack lay on the couch, reading a book about the history of horses.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mom, can Annie and I do something for about 20 minutes? He called. Okay, 20 minutes no more, said their mom. The grill's almost ready. Thanks, said Jack. He looked at his wrist watch. It was 5 42, so they had to be home by two minutes after six. He grabbed his backpack and hurried out of the house. Annie was waiting on the sidewalk.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Twenty minutes, no more, Jack called running toward her. No problem, Annie said, and they hurried up the sidewalk together.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I'll bet Merlin wants us to find another secret of greatness, said Jack. I know, said Annie. I can't wait.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They crossed the street and headed into the Frog Creek woods.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They ran through the shadowy light until they came to the tallest oak. Merlin, Penny, Annie called. There was no answer. The woods were still, strangely still. Not a leaf moved. Let's go up, said Jack. He grabbed the rope ladder and started climbing. Annie followed. When they scrambled into the treehouse, there was no sign of Merlin or Penny.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Not here, said Annie. Nope, said Jack, but everything else is.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] On the paper he'd written the secret of greatness they'd learned on their last mission. Humility. Sitting on top of the paper were two things, a small gold ring and a tiny bottle. Annie picked up the ring and held it out to Jack. The ring of truth, she said. You get to wear it this time. Thanks, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The ring of truth would glow only when Jack and Annie discovered a true secret of greatness.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie picked up the tiny bottle. She and Jack stared at its swirling contents. Wow, she breathed. Merlin's magic mist. Jack repeated the words of Camelot's magician. Mist gathered at first light on the first day of the new moon on the Isle of Avalon. Good memory, said Annie. Who wouldn't remember that?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Said Jack. If we take a sniff, we can be great at anything we choose for one hour. That's so cool, said Annie. Yeah, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He had loved becoming a great horse trainer on their last mission. I wonder what talent we'll have this time, and where will we go?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie pointed at a booklet that was lying in the shadows. She picked it up and handed it to Jack. Coney Island, I think, she said. Jack read the title. Coney Island Tourist Guide. Coney Island, isn't that in New York, said Annie. Yep, look, there's a note inside, said Jack. He pulled out a piece of parchment from the booklet.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Thank you for successfully completing your first mission to find a secret of greatness. Now on your new mission, I would like you to learn a second secret, this time from the great Houdini, M. Oh man, the great Houdini, said Jack. What did he do, said Annie. Dad told me about him, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He performed his act all over the world. I can't believe we're actually going to meet him. So where do we find a person like that? Asked Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Coney Island, said Jack, holding up the booklet. Oh yeah, duh, said Annie. So make the wish and let's go. Okay, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He put Merlin's message and the magic mist into his backpack. Then he pointed to the words Coney Island on the booklet. I wish we could go there. The wind started to blow. The treehouse started to spin. It spun faster and faster. Then everything was still. Absolutely still.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack heard people laughing and shouting. A brass band was playing a lively tune. He and Annie looked out the window. The treehouse had landed in a cluster of trees. High above the trees were towers, turrets, domes, and spires. Are those castles? asked Annie. Did we land in the Middle Ages? Definitely not, said Jack. Look at our clothes.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] In the dim light inside the treehouse, Jack could see that he was wearing knee-length pants, a long-sleeved shirt, high socks, and lace-up boots. His backpack was now a leather bag. You're right, said Annie. She was wearing a sailor dress and a pair of boots.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] These are like the clothes we wore when we went to San Francisco. Yep, in the early 1900s, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He reached into one of his pockets and took out a watch on a chain. Look, I have a pocket watch now instead of a wrist watch. And from the other pocket, Jack pulled out a handful of coins, a bunch of pennies. Just pennies, that's all, said Annie. Don't worry, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I once read that a penny in 1900 was worth the same as a quarter in our time. Cool, we're rich, said Annie with a laugh. Here, take some, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He gave Annie half of his handful of coins. Thanks, Annie said, dropping the pennies into the pocket of her dress. Okay, let's find out what's going on here. She headed down the ladder. Jack slung his bag over his shoulder and followed her.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie step down into a walled garden lit by a string of tiny lights.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They walked together down a pebbled path and over a small bridge that crossed a brook.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then they came to a wooden gate with a sign that said, Thanks for visiting the Japanese Tea Garden. We landed in a Japanese Tea Garden? said Jack. What's that about? Keep going, said Annie. She opened the gate and they stepped from the shadowy garden into a bright open space. Wow, they said together. Beneath the turrets and towers,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Thousands of electric lights lit up the evening sky.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Men in white suits and women in long white dresses strolled down a broad avenue. Children dressed like Jack and Annie darted about.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Shouting and pointing at different attractions. Adrep to the moon. Mountain torrent. Kansas cyclone.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The air smelled of salt water, roasting nuts, and popcorn. Vendors shouted, step right up, world's greatest ice cream, strawberry, vanilla, world's greatest pink lemonade, world's greatest hot dogs. What is this place, said Annie. Jack opened their booklet and read.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Located in southern Brooklyn, in New York City, Coney Island is actually a peninsula, a piece of land nearly surrounded by water.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Is world famous for its dazzling amusement parks?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Of course, I understand, said Jack. We landed in an amusement park. I love it, said Annie. Let's get a hot dog. No, we'd better not, said Jack. We should find Houdini first. Let's see if the guidebook says anything about him. He opened their booklet and thumbed through the pages. Houdini, Houdini. He ran his finger down a page.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And I bet Merlin wants us to see Houdini at Henderson's Music Hall. Excuse me, she called to a couple strolling by.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Is today by any chance June 22, 1908? The woman laughed. It is indeed, she said. Thanks, said Annie. Jack pulled out his pocket watch. It's six-forty right now, he said. Oh, we have tons of time, said Annie. Come on, let's get a hot dog. No, said Jack. I think we should get our tickets. They might


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We have over two hours. Annie interrupted. It doesn't take long to eat a hot dog. My treat. She grabbed Jack and pulled him toward the hot dog stand. Okay, okay. Jack said sighing.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] How much? Annie said to a girl grilling hot dogs on a portable stove. Three cents each, the girl answered, or two for a nickel. No problem, two please, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mmm, delicious, he said with his mouth full. His greatest wot-dog in the world. Annie nodded.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Well, we waiters, she said, her mouth full too.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Wait, we still have time for ice cream, said Annie. They have strawberry, your favorite. Hm, ice cream, said Jack. It'll just take two minutes, said Annie. The greatest in the world, remember? Okay, my treat, said Jack. Yay, thanks, said Annie. They hurried to the window of a small ice cream shop. Two cones of strawberry, Jack said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Four cents, the ice cream man said. Jack handed over four pennies.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The man scooped strawberry ice cream into two sweet smelling waffle cones and handed them to Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie ate their ice cream as they strolled up the dazzling avenue, passing different rides and attractions.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Trip to the moon, the young man shouted at them. Get your tickets here. Been there, Jack said. Done that, added Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] A boy in a fur parka rolled by on a unicycle.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Tickets for a submarine ride, he yelled to Jack and Annie, departing soon for the North Pole. Been there, said Annie. Done that, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Kansas cyclone, a girl shouted from the entrance of a large tent. Come inside and be blown away. Been there, done that too, said Jack. Annie laughed. As soon as he finished his ice cream cone, Jack wiped his hands and opened their booklet. Okay, now we have to get serious, he said. I wonder where Surf Avenue is. Hey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Filled with screaming passengers splashing down a tall, watery slide, the boat crashed into a lake and shot under an arched bridge.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The riders shrieked as they bounced up into the air. Then the boat glided across the lake to a landing.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Shoot the shoots, a man yelled from a ticket booth. Only one dime, jump aboard.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Wow, that looks like so much fun. Let's do it, my treat, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Before Jack could say anything, she dashed to the booth. Jack quickly followed her. No, Annie, he said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I want to get our tickets for the Houdini show now. But Annie had already pulled out a bunch of pennies and was paying for two tickets. I said I didn't, Jack said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Oh, please. Annie said, handing Jack his ticket.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We have plenty of time. One little ride won't hurt us. Jack sighed. But I, he started, come on, come on, Annie said, we'll get Houdini tickets right after this, I promise.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] This will just take an extra five minutes, that's all. Okay, you win, said Jack. Let's go. Jack followed Annie to a boat.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The last passengers were climbing out, talking and laughing. Others were waiting to climb in.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And the teenagers and the couple in the hats took seats behind them. The boatman sat in the back.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As the boat climbed higher and higher, the amusement park shimmered below. Hundreds of flags flapped from turrets and towers.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] What keeps the boat from tumbling off its tracks? Jack wondered. There are no seatbelts here, he grumbled to Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But could you just try to have fun? It's a normal everyday ride.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Yeaah, well, we don't really have time for a normal everyday ride, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We should have gotten our tiggas for the Houdini show already. You don't have to be so grouchy, said Annie. I'm not grouchy, Jack said grouchily. But why do we always do what you want to do? Before Annie could answer.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The boat swiveled on a turnaround at the top of the ramp.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The boat splashed into the lake and shot under the arched bridge. Then it bounced into the air, splashing water everywhere. Jack closed his eyes and ducked his head. All the teenagers screamed. For a moment the boat seemed to fly.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie was laughing with the other passengers as the boat glided peacefully across the water. Everyone seemed to be having fun.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But Jack's heart was thumping and his stomach felt queasy.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The boatman docked the boat and helped everyone onto the landing. The passengers scattered in different directions. Okay, time to go to the theater, said Annie. Wait, I need to sit for a minute, said Jack. I thought you were desperate to get our tickets, said Annie. In a minute, said Jack. He pointed to a terrace that bordered the lake. How about we sit over there? Sure, Annie said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] People in costumes were hawking tickets to different rides.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Step this way, ladies and gentlemen. Enter the Dragon's Gorge.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Greatest roller coaster in the country, shouted a man wearing a dragon head.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Over here, the buzzards roost, called a boy in a bird outfit. Greatest train ride on earth. Come to the babbling brook, yelled a girl dressed as a mermaid. Greatest water ride in the U.S. of A.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Funny, sounds like everything in Coney Island is the greatest, said Jack. So, said Annie. That means nothing's really the greatest, said Jack, because everything's the same. Ha, a woman sitting on the bench laughed. Jack realized they were sitting next to the short couple from the shoot the shoots ride. Their big hats almost completely hid their faces. Did you hear that, Harry?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The woman said to the man, this boy's a genius.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ain't that the truth, Bess? Harry said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Don't say ain't, dear, say isn't, best said kindly. Harry smiled at Jack and Annie. Isn't that the truth, he said. See, my best is always looking after me. Jack and Annie smiled politely. Is this your first time in Coney Island, kiddos? Asked Harry. It is, said Annie. Yours too? No.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Said Bess. No, no, no. We first met here at Coney Island fifteen years ago. We got married three weeks later. Congratulations, said Annie. It was a long time ago, said Bess.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But I'm more crazy about him than ever, and he writes me a love note every day, rain or shine. That's so sweet, said Annie. Are you kiddos having a good time here, asked Harry. I am, said Annie. Good, said Bess. Then she turned to her husband. Time's running out, dreamboat, she said. We'd better move on.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Can we get ice cream cones now? Harry asked.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] No, you know the routine. Ice cream always comes after the show. Best said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] If we wanna take the trip to the moon, we gotta go now. Harry looked at Jack and Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She's always wanted to send me to the moon, he said. Jack and Annie laughed. You kiddos wanna join us? Harry asked. I'm sorry we can't, said Jack. We have to do something else. Hey, do you know where Henderson's music hall is? Sure, why do you wanna know? Bess asked. We're going to see the great Houdini, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] What a coincidence, said Bess. We're going there too after our trip to the moon.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I adore that man, the great Houdini. I wouldn't miss watching that dreamboat for anything in this world. Harry cleared his throat. Sweetheart, they want directions, he said. Oh yes, said Bess.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] So walk the main road there to the arches, and then exit the park.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She pointed to giant gold colored arches in the distance. Then turn right and head down Surf Avenue.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] So long, kiddos, maybe we'll see you later at the Great Houdini Show, said Harry. And when you watch the show, remember, said Bess, even though everything can't be the greatest, sometimes what folks call great really is great. Harry laughed. He tipped his straw hat to Jack and Annie, and he and Bess walked away. I liked them, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Me too, said Jack. He stood up, talking with the cheerful couple that made him feel better. Okay, let's go get our tickets. Finally.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie stepped down from the terrace and walked up the broad avenue toward the arches.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] At the arches they pass ticket sellers sitting in red chariots.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hurry back to Luna Park, one shouted. We will, don't worry, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They passed horses and buggies and old-timey cars.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The warm summer night was filled with the sounds of hooves clomping and horns honking. Auga, auga. There it is, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He pointed to a large red building with green trim. A big sign over the awning read, Henderson's.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] A huge crowd of people had lined up on the sidewalk in front of the theater. Man, look at that line, said Jack. This is why I wanted to be here early.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie ran to the end of the line where some teenagers were joking and pushing each other around. Is this the line to buy tickets? asked Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Nah, this is for folks who got theirs already, like us, said a tough looking kid. So scram. Forget it, said Jack. He pulled Annie along. We have to find the box office.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] At the front of the theater was a chalkboard that read, Magic tonight. 8.15. The Bambini Brothers. Nine o'clock. The Great Houdini. Tickets here. Jack hurried to a window beside the chalkboard. He was surprised. There was no line. Excuse me, he said, trying to get the attention of the ticket seller. She was talking to a man inside the office.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You're not listening to me, Mrs. Grinshaw, the man shouted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It is the end of the world. I tell you, they'll destroy the theater. Excuse me, Jack said again in a louder voice. We'd like to buy two


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They'll start a riot, they'll tear the seeds apart. The man shouted, mercy, mercy, my heart. He clutched his chest and nearly collapsed. Should we get help? Annie asked. Mrs. Crenshaw looked down at Annie and shook her head. No, dear, Mr. Dewey will be fine, she said. She rolled her eyes.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Yes, get help, get help, please! Mr. Dewey croaked, wiping his brow with a handkerchief. Find me a new opening act! A what? said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The Bambini Brothers ran off, said Mr. Dewey. I caught them red-handed, stealing from the box office. That sounds terrible, said Annie. You have no idea, Missy, cried Mr. Dewey. They were the opening act for the Great Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He wiped his sweaty face again. The hooligans and the crowd will go crazy if the curtain's late. I should have gone into the shoe business instead of show business. Jack felt sorry for the man, but he really didn't care about the Bambini brothers. He just wanted tickets for the Great Houdini. Uh, excuse me, he said to Mrs. Crenshaw.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We'd like to buy two tickets for the big show, the one with the great Houdini. Sorry kids, didn't you read that? Mrs. Crenshaw said. She pointed to a sign in the window. The sign read, sold out. No, we didn't see that, said Annie. You're sold out, said Jack. Yes, yelled Mr. Dewey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We sold out an hour ago. S-O-L-D-O-U-T. So it's a full house with no opening act. Go away now, please. We got problems. Big problems. And with that, Mr. Dewey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Sold out? Jack said to Annie. An hour ago. I know, you were right, I was wrong. Annie said quickly. We should have come earlier. Jack just stared at her. I'm sorry. Said Annie, making a face. Really? She looked around. So, do you think anyone in line would sell us their tickets? Not in a million years, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] How can we meet Houdini now and learn his secret of greatness? We'll figure something out, said Annie. We always do. Don't worry. Let's think.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She pulled on her braids and bit her lip as she stared at the window of the box office. Jack couldn't get over his frustration. I, I just can't believe it, he said. Maybe this is the secret of greatness. Don't listen to your sister. Buy your tickets ahead of time. He held up his hand and wiggled his finger. Afraid the ring of truth isn't glowing, he said. Too bad. Wait a minute.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Doesn't this remind you of the time we went to Shakespeare's Theatre in London and the two actors didn't show up for the play? I don't want to talk about our other missions now, Jack said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He pulled out their booklet and turned the pages, hoping to find more information about Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But don't you remember how Shakespeare put you and me in the play instead? said Annie. Jack ignored her. I don't see anything else in here about Houdini. Just this one show, he said, scanning each page.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Do you want to use Merlin's magic mist and make a wish to be great stage magicians? said Annie. Stage magicians? said Jack. Yes!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You and me, we go on stage in place of the Bambini brothers, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Think about it. It's a great plan. That way we can meet Houdini backstage. We'll be fellow performers, said Annie. Plus we'll be helping out Mr. Dewey and his theater.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And not to mention, it would be incredibly fun. That plan's ridiculous, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] No one's going to let us go on stage and do a magic show? You are so wrong. I'll bet I can make it happen, said Annie. Watch. Wait, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But Annie dashed to the box office window and tapped on the glass. When Mrs. Crenshaw opened the window,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mrs. Crenshaw immediately closed the window and left the box office. Annie, what did you say? asked Jack. The theater door swung open. Inside, quick! Mrs. Crenshaw said to Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Wait, where are you going? Jack started to follow Annie into the theater, but the door closed behind her and locked.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack went back to the box office and looked through the window.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie was talking enthusiastically to Mrs. Crenshaw and Mr. Dewey. Jack couldn't hear a word she was saying. Jack tapped on the window and shook his head, but Annie ignored him.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As she kept talking, Mr. Dewey's expressions changed from frowning to squinting.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] With a big grin, Annie shot her fist into the air.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The next thing Jack knew she was racing out of the theater door. I did it!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I did it. We have a show to do, she cried. He said yes. But I didn't say yes, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Don't worry, I fixed everything for us and Mr. Dewey," said Annie. What did you tell him? said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Before Annie could answer, Mr. Dewey rushed out of the theater. Hurry, kids! He shouted. Come on!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie grabbed Jack's hand and pulled him toward the door.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey pushed Jack and Annie into the theater and locked the door behind them. George, he called to an usher.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Quick, change the sign. Erase the Bambinis. Write Jolly Jack and the Amazing Annie instead. Jolly Jack? Thought Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] This way! Mr. Dewey hustled Jack and Annie through the theater lobby and into a large auditorium.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The auditorium had rows and rows of floor seats as well as box seats and a balcony.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Electric lights cast a peach colored glow over a stage framed by a red curtain. Is that where we'll perform? Annie asked. No way, no way, Jack whispered to her.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Yes, that very stage, boomed Mr. Dewey. In the orchestra pit, a violinist was making squeaky sounds


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] For the Houdini show, said Mr. Dewey. But if you like, I'm sure they can accompany your routine too. Yes, I like, said Annie. She turned to Jack. Did you hear that? We get music. Annie, I didn't agree to do this, Jack said under his breath. He was fuming. Come along to your dressing room, said Mr. Dewey. Jack didn't move.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But Annie skipped down the aisle after Mr. Dewey. I didn't agree, Annie, Jack yelled from the back of the auditorium. The clashing cymbals drowned out his voice. Annie, come back, he yelled louder.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But Annie followed Mr. Dewey through a door to the backstage area. Darn her!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Other half of the famous brother and sister team, Jolly Jack and the Amazing Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] These little kids are filling in for the Bambinis tonight? The Ball Man asked.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We're not so little, said Annie, and we've been stage magicians for years.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Excuse me, my sister's made a mistake. We can't do this, said Jack. We, we don't have our costumes. We don't have anything.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Not a problem, said Mr. Dewey. The Bambinis left all their props and costumes behind. See? Annie said to Jack. But, started Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I'm turning you over to Mr. Wilson, our stage manager now, said Mr. Dewey. Good luck. I have to tell Mrs. Crenshaw to open the doors and let the hordes inside. The show will go on.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey then disappeared down the hall.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You kids better know what you're doing, said Mr. Wilson, shaking his head. Saturday night crowds can be pretty wild.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Don't worry, Annie said with a grin. Our magic hat can get pretty wild too.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack couldn't believe her. She had completely taken over their whole mission.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Wilson laughed. Good, he said. I'm glad you're so confident. Amazing, Annie. Come with me. Your dressing room is next to Mr. Houdini's.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Cool, is Mr. Houdini here now? Annie asked as they followed Mr. Wilson.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Nope, he won't get here before eight-thirty, said Mr. Wilson. He led them down the hallway and opened a door. Here you go.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The stage manager waved Jack and Annie into a small room. See? The Bambini's left behind all their stuff.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Use anything you need. You can wear their costumes too. Both guys were kinda short. It all looks great, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] On the dressing table were wands, cards, silver rings the size of dinner plates, top hats, bow ties, and white gloves. Strewn over a chair were tuxedos, shirts, and vests. Oh wow, look! said Annie. On the floor were two cages. One held three white rabbits. The other held two white doves. They're so cute!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We can't just use the Bambini's animals and birds and costumes and props. What, what if they come back? They won't be back, said Mr. Wilson.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] After the show Mrs. Crenshaw is going to take the birds and rabbits home to her kids. Oh nice, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You have 35 minutes, said Mr. Wilson, looking at his pocket watch.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You'll go on at fifteen minutes after eight and do a thirty minute show, got it? Okey dokey, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jolly, Jack said. I'm angry, really angry. Why? asked Annie. Because we didn't decide on this together, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You didn't even listen to me. Just like you didn't listen to me when I wanted to buy our tickets early.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But with the magic mist this could be so much fun, don't you think, said Annie? Plus we'll meet the great Houdini for sure. And, and we'll help Mr. Dewey and his theater. It's a good plan, Jack. It might be a good plan, said Jack. That's not the point. The point is we didn't talk about it together. We're supposed to be a team on our missions.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But if it's a good plan, what difference does it make if we didn't talk about it, said Annie. Why can't you just go along with me? Because I don't want to, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You decided by yourself to do this, so just do it by yourself. Just go on the stage and use the magic mist all by yourself. Really, said Annie. Really, said Jack. Well, fine, said Annie. Okay then, said Jack. Goodbye, said Annie. Goodbye, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He stormed out of the dressing room, banging the door shut behind him.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He walked briskly down the backstage hallway through the doors and into the auditorium.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Usher's yelled at teenagers who were shoving each other and fighting over their seats. Hooligans, Jack thought, glad he didn't have to perform. Jack made his way through the auditorium, then through the packed lobby.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He slipped by the ticket taker and squeezed past people streaming into the theater.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack walked away from Henderson's music hall as fast as he could. He hurried up the avenue, weaving his way through the crowds on the sidewalk. She can just do it by herself, Jack thought.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I don't care. She can use Merlin's magic mist all by herself. She can perform for the hooligans and the hordes if she wants to. But I don't have to. She can sniff the magic mist and just- Oh. Oh! Jack stopped. He dug into his brown bag. He pulled out the small bottle. Oh no, he moaned. Annie didn't have Merlin's magic mist. He did.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack whirled around and started back up Surf Avenue. The sidewalk was so crowded he had to jump off the curb into the street.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And trot alongside the old-timey cars and the horses and buggies. When Jack reached the theater, people were still making their way inside. He squeezed through the crowd, trying not to push anyone too hard. Excuse me, excuse me, he said. He tried to sneak his way past the ticket taker, but the man grabbed him. Ticket, Sonny? I don't have a ticket, said Jack. I just need to get backstage fast.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Beat it, kid, said the ticket taker. Wait, said Jack. He pointed at the chalkboard announcing their act. I'm jolly Jack, see? I don't see nothing jolly about you.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] There must be a door somewhere that leads backstage, he thought.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He peered down a long narrow alley beside the theater. The alley was dark.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Except for the glow of light from high windows above a row of garbage cans. Jack hurried down the alley. A rat skittered out from behind a can. Jack kept going until he rounded the corner. He found the back entrance, but when he tried the handle, it was locked. He banged and banged on the door, but no one answered. The windows, Jack thought. He hurried back into the alley.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] To reach the row of windows, he had to step from a packing crate onto the top of a garbage can.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack stood on his toes and looked through a lit window. He saw a hallway but no one was there.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He carefully stepped from one garbage can to another until he reached the next window.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He saw Annie dressed in an oversized tuxedo. She was staring at a piece of paper. Jack pounded on the window. Annie, Annie, he shouted, panting. When Annie saw him, her face lit up. Hi, she yelled. She put down the paper and jumped onto a chair. She lifted a latch and then pushed the window up. Thanks for coming back, she cried.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I am so sorry, Jack. Don't worry about it, he said. Are you coming in? asked Annie. Yeah, hold on. Jack jumped down and picked up the packing crate. He placed it on top of the garbage can.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then he carefully climbed onto the can and the crate.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Clutching the window sill, he hoisted himself through the window. Annie helped him step down onto a chair and then onto the floor. Jack reached into his bag and pulled out the small bottle. You'll need this before you go on stage, he said out of breath. Mist gathered at first light on the first day of the new moon on the Isle of Avalon.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Thanks, said Annie, taking the bottle. When I realized I didn't have it, I didn't know what to do. That's what I figured, said Jack. Annie grabbed the paper from the table. Look at this, she said, handing it to Jack. The Bambini brothers must have left it. Jack and Annie looked at the paper together. It looks like a list of tricks, said Jack. He read.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Instant wand. Three bunnies. Miracle doves. Cards from thin air. Chinese rings. Yeah.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I think I have all the props for them, said Annie. See? There are two wands, three rabbits, two doves, a pack of cards, and three big rings. Yeah, it's all here, said Jack. But what do I do with it, said Annie. Maybe you'll find out when you use the magic mist, said Jack. Oh yes, I bet I will, said Annie. Yeah, Jack said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Now I can't wait to find out what's going to happen said Annie. Bet you'll have a good time said Jack. What are you thinking? asked Annie. Should I still perform all by myself?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Or do you think maybe we should perform together? Jack stared at her a moment, then sighed. Together, he said softly. Yay, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But remember, the magic only works for one hour.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He looked at his watch. It's five after eight. If we start the magic now,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We go on at 8.15 for 30 minutes. That means we'll leave the stage at 8.45.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And the noise of the audience rushed into the room like a lion's roar.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack heard stamping and whistling and shouting. You go on in ten minutes, Mr. Wilson said. Thanks, said Annie. The door closed. Jack looked at Annie in a panic. Did you hear that crowd? He said. Don't think about it, said Annie. Quick, let's use the magic. She pulled the cork out of the bottle. Ready? Jack nodded.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie held the bottle under her nose. We wish to be two great stage magicians, she said, and she took a deep breath. Then she handed the bottle to Jack. Jack closed his eyes and inhaled the mist.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It smelled of dewy grass, sparkling lake water, and wild thyme.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The crowd wasn't scary anymore. In fact, he could hardly wait to get on the stage and show them what he could do. Okay, Jack said, clapping his hands. I'd better put on my costume. He grabbed the extra tuxedo and slipped behind a dressing curtain. As he changed his clothes, Jack realized that everything was slightly too big.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Of course, said Jack, looking in the mirror and straightening his bow tie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The top was covered with black velvet trimmed with gold fringe.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Now let us prepare for our show. First we'll put the rabbits and doves in the hidden compartments of that table, he said. Yep, said Annie, no problem.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie began preparing their props quietly and expertly, as if they'd done it a thousand times before.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She opened a second small door on the table top and carefully placed the two white doves into another secret compartment. They look happy in there, she said. Jack set the deck of cards in the center of the table.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie hid the two wands inside the sleeves of her tuxedo jacket. Jack pulled his pocket watch from his pants. Eight fifteen, he said. Annie smiled. We have fifty minutes of magic left, she said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack slipped the watch into the pocket of his tuxedo jacket.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie arranged the silver rings on top of the table.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] This time the roar of the crowd did not alarm Jack in the least. In fact, it thrilled him


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Yes indeed, Mr. Wilson. Thank you, he said with a jolly laugh.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] If you'd be so kind, Mr. Wilson, please set our table center stage," said Annie. Hank, Butch, Mr. Wilson shouted. Two stagehands immediately appeared.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They picked up the table and carried it out of the dressing room.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] When the stage crew was gone, Jack and Annie pulled on their white gloves.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You sure you feel okay about doing this? Annie asked. Totally. Jack smiled at her. He tightened his gloves and wiggled his fingers. Then he put on his top hat. Let's go, my dear, he said, leading the way out the door. It's showtime.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Chapter 6, Jolly Jack and the Amazing Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As the orchestra played, Mr. Wilson guided Jack and Annie through the backstage area.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Like I said before, it's a tough crowd out there tonight.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack smiled confidently. No crowd is too tough for us, he thought.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hank and Butch set the table with Jack and Annie's prop center stage behind the closed curtain.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The stage was lit with a soft, rosy light. Places called Mr. Wilson. Jack and Annie nodded and calmly took their places in front of the table. They heard a long drum roll, then a cymbal crash.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They heard Mr. Dewey speaking to the audience from in front of the curtain. Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to The Great Houdini Show.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I have a very special and wonderful surprise for you this evening.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As you may know, the Bambini Brothers were scheduled to be our opening act. But instead...


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It would be your great good fortune to welcome a truly remarkable pair of young illusionists.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] These master magicians have performed in theaters all around the world. And tonight they are here to perform for you.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Jolly Jack and the Amazing Annie. A trumpet blasted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The curtain rose and the crowd clapped and whistled as Jack and Annie stepped into a yellow spotlight. Looking out at the audience, Jack chuckled like a seasoned performer. His heart pounded, but not with fear.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It pounded with an excitement that made him want to do his best.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Good evening, friends, Jack shouted over the applause. They call me Jolly Jack because nothing brings me greater joy than entertaining folks like you. And they call my sister Amazing Annie because Jack held his gloved hand out toward Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I love to amaze you with my amazing ability to amaze you. Annie shouted. The symbols crashed. The crowd laughed. Do not let our youthful appearance fool you. Annie went on. My brother and I have traveled the globe.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack took off his top hat and turned it toward the crowd. I direct your attention to my hat, he said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As you can see, the inside is quite ordinary. But strange things happen with this hat, especially when I touch it with a wand given to us by an Arabian princess. Jack looked around. Oh dear, I seem to have forgotten my wand. Annie stepped forward. She swept her right arm in front of her. And presto, a wand appeared in her hand.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack knew that when she waved her arm, she had simply allowed one of the hidden wands to slip from her sleeve. The cymbals crashed. The crowd cheered. Annie grinned triumphantly and bowed. While Annie was distracting everyone,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack casually put his hat upside down on the velvet table top over one of the hidden trap doors.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As he set the hat down, he pressed on the trapdoor and it flapped open. Thank you, Amazing Annie, Jack called. Annie handed Jack the wand.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Zoom-bali-win-doo-chee-kon-hay. Which means,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Oh, marvelous hat, what do you have for me today? Jack tapped the hat, stepped back from the table, and turned to Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] My dear, may I ask you to check my hat, please? He said. I have a feeling it holds a surprise.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] There was a drum roll as Annie slowly reached into the hat.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack knew she was pushing down on the top of the hat, which also had a secret flap.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] A small white rabbit suddenly leapt from the secret compartment, through the hat, and into Annie's arms.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The orchestra played triumphant music and the audience cheered.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Two more rabbits jumped out, each time Annie caught the rabbits and pretended to be surprised. The cymbals crashed. The audience laughed and clapped.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie handed the rabbits to Hank and Butch, who carried them off stage. Then she took off her own hat. Ladies and gentlemen, she shouted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As you can see, my hat is as empty as my brother's was. She showed the inside of the hat to the audience. But it also holds wonders. Annie set her hat on the table beside Jack's.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As the crowd applauded, Annie waved the wand over her hat. In a strange voice, she said


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Zoom bali hula hula hi ho hey, which means, oh wondrous hat, send new friends our way. Jack reached into the hat, pushed down on the secret flap, then gently lifted out a dove. As the crowd cheered and clapped, he reached in again and took out the second dove. Jack handed the birds to Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They perched on her fingers as she lifted her hands into the air.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The birds flapped their wings, bowing to the audience. The cymbals crashed. The crowd cheered and clapped, while Annie distracted the crowd with the birds.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack scooped the deck of cards off the table and stepped into the shadows.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Behind his back he divided the deck equally.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Are there any card players in the house? he called.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Many in the audience raised their hands. Some laughed loudly and teased each other.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Well then my friends, said Jack, my strong advice to you tonight is never play cards with a magician. As he spoke.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But oddly, some folks are foolish enough to challenge me to a game.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Therefore, I never travel anywhere without a deck.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Of course you can't play a card game with only one card. Jack said. He reached into the air with his left hand. Ah, good. Here is another. And another. And another.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The drummer pounded his drums each time Jack appeared to snatch a card from the air. He produced card after card. What's this? Another? Another! Finally, he said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] My goodness, I seem to have gathered an entire deck. Who wants to play a game? The cymbals crashed, the crowd cheered, and Jack bowed. Annie stepped into the spotlight, holding up three large rings. Once upon a time, in a palace in China,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We learned the ancient art of magic rings, she said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack knew that one of the rings had a tiny opening in it.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie hid the opening between her thumb and index finger, so no one could see it. These are three solid rings, Annie told the crowd. There is no way on earth to link them together. She banged the rings against one another, making a show of trying to fit them together. Each time she failed. Jack stepped forward. But deep in the palace of the emperor, he said,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] A Chinese sage taught us a magical song.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack waved his wand over the first ring and sang,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hong, hong, hong, hong. And he banged the rings together again. This time...


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She slipped the solid rings through the hidden opening in the other ring. Her hands moved so swiftly, no one could see what she was doing. Once again the magic song has worked.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She shouted holding up the three connected rings. Symbols crashed as the crowd applauded


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie easily disconnected the rings. Then she tossed the two solid ones high into the air.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] When they came down, she caught them so they slipped perfectly.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You have been most agreeable and welcoming tonight, he shouted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We will think of you fondly for years to come, but now we must leave you. During intermission, you can prepare your minds and nerves in anticipation of the most amazing escape artist of all time, the Great Houdini!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Trumpets sounded. Everyone cheered and stamped their feet.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie each bowed with a flourish. They raised their top hats to the crowd.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then laughing and waving, they ran off stage and the curtain came down.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Chapter 7. Hurry up, Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Well, my dear, said Annie, we did it. We were brilliant, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Smiling, they pulled off their white gloves and grabbed their top hats.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hank and Butch quickly appeared and carried away their table and props. Good show, good show, they said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Thanks guys, said Jack, pulling off his bow tie. What time is it? Annie asked. Jack pulled out his pocket watch. Eight forty eight, he said. Our timing was perfect.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We even have 17 minutes of magic left over.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And Houdini should be in his dressing room now since he goes on at nine, said Annie. While we're still great magicians,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They found Mr. Dewey outside Houdini's door. He was pacing up and down, wringing his hands.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He's not here, he cried. He's not here. Who? said Jack. Houdini? said Annie. Who else? shouted Mr. Dewey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He's not here. N-O-T-H-E-R-E. Where is he? What happened to him? asked Jack. Who knows? cried Mr. Dewey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] All I know is that this is a disaster. The hooligans will demand their money back and probably tear the theater apart. I'm facing ruin! Disgrace! All is lost!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The stage door banged open, and Mr. Wilson rushed in. No sign of him outside, boss, he said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Oh, Wilson, cried Mr. Dewey. We're doomed. We're doomed. Mr. Wilson nodded grimly. Jack looked at his pocket watch. Ten to nine, he said. He could still make it in time.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey raised his arms in the air as if calling out to Houdini wherever he was. Hurry up, Houdini, hurry up, he cried. Then he buried his head in his hands.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Oh brother, thought Jack. Mr. Dewey was nuts. But where was Houdini?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He and Annie needed him too, or they'd never learn a secret of greatness from him. Listen kids, if he's not here by nine, you'll have to go back out, Mr. Wilson said to Jack and Annie. Back out where? said Jack. On stage, said Mr. Wilson. Mr. Dewey looked up. Yes, he cried.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You said you knew hundreds of tricks. Just keep performing till he shows up. If he shows up.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hold the crowd till he comes. Hold him if he doesn't come. Save me, I'll pay you. No, no, you don't have to do that, said Annie. We're happy to help. Annie, stop, Jack whispered. Our magic hour's almost up. He looked back at the theater owner. I'm sorry, but I'm afraid we can't go back out there. You must, you must, said Mr. Dewey.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They love you. Go out and save my theater. Save my life, please. Whoa, take it easy, Jack said, trying to calm the hysterical man. He didn't know what else to say. Don't worry, Mr. Dewey, we'll help, said Annie. Thank you, cried Mr. Dewey. I'll look for Houdini outside. Mr. Dewey hurried away. Mr. Wilson called to his crew.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I know you said yes only because Mr. Dewey was losing his mind, said Jack, but I don't see how we can do this.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] If we go on at nine, we'll have five good minutes, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I know, but what if Houdini's still not here after five good minutes, said Jack. Maybe we could hold their attention some other way, said Annie. We could at least try. Hm, Jack thought for a moment. Actually,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Maybe we can get away with doing the same tricks we did before, he said. Now that we know how they work, they shouldn't be that hard. We know how to push on the tops of the hats. We know about the hidden compartments in the table. We know about the opening in the ring. Yeah, right, right, easy, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You can keep doing card tricks and I can keep throwing the rings around. Mr. Wilson opened the door and sounds from the audience filled the room. Jack could hear feet stamping and people chanting, Houdini, Houdini. Everything's back on stage, said Mr. Wilson, ready to tame the lions.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack still felt the confidence that came from being a great magician. Showtime he said. No problem said Annie. Jack and Annie left the dressing room.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And followed Mr. Wilson through the backstage area. Dewey's out on the avenue looking for Houdini, said Mr. Wilson. Take your places and I'll pull the curtains.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie strode onto the stage and stood in front of the table. Jack looked at his pocket watch. It was nine o'clock. The curtain rose to great fanfare. The audience clapped and cheered.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It took a moment for everyone to realize they were looking at Jack and Annie again. After a stunned silence some people started booing and hissing. Jack stepped forward


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He tipped his hat and laughed his jolly laugh.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] What a terrible surprise, eh? he shouted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You didn't know Jolly Jack is the secret identity of the Great Houdini, did you? More booing and hissing. Seriously, folks, I understand your disappointment, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But the world's greatest magician is preparing himself backstage right now to give you the best show you've ever seen. So please, allow Jolly Jack and the Amazing Annie to entertain you for a few more minutes.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The audience quieted down, but then someone yelled, we want Houdini!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Take it outside, pal, said Jack. So do we. The audience laughed. Jack turned to Annie. The one, sister dear.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie expertly dropped the wand down her sleeve into her hand. The symbols crashed, but this time there wasn't much applause. Annie gave the wand to Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As he placed his hat over the hidden compartment on the table, he secretly pushed down on the trap door.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack then waved the wand around the brim of the hat. He opened his mouth to speak. But suddenly, horribly, he couldn't think of anything to say.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Holding the wand in mid-air, Jack turned to Annie. She looked confused too.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Their hour of being great stage magicians had ended. The magic was over. Some people yelled from the audience. Jack felt embarrassed and self-conscious.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It was like a nightmare. He couldn't move or speak.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie rushed over. She reached into Jack's hat and pushed down on the top.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Outjump the rabbits. One, two, three.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But this time, Annie couldn't catch them, and they jumped to the floor and hopped around the stage. The audience laughed and booed.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie put her hat over the second trapdoor and pushed down on the top.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Out flew the birds. They circled above the table while Annie grinned foolishly. See, magic doves. Again, she said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The stagehands came out and tried to gather up all the creatures. The audience booed.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The musicians didn't know what to do. They played random violin squeaks, drum sounds, and trumpet wails.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack grabbed the deck of cards. Uhm, are there still some card players here? He said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He thrust out his arm. Instead of a card appearing in his hand, the whole deck flew into the air. Blah, played the trombone.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie grabbed the three silver rings, but she fumbled them too, and they clattered to the floor. Again the trombone played.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The audience laughter and booing had turned to shouting, Houdini, Houdini. People stamped their feet. Mr. Wilson yelled from the wings, different tricks, kids, do something new. Jack was desperate to leave the stage. He grabbed Annie by the arm. Let's get out of here, he said. Wait, she said, squinting out at the crowd.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Tooey was leading a man and woman down the aisle toward the stage.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The woman's hat was piled high with bananas and roses. Is that Bess? Said Jack. Yes, said Annie. It's Bess and Harry. How weird. What are they doing? Said Jack. Are they coming to help us? Mr. Dewey led Bess and Harry onto the stage. Bess rushed over to Jack and Annie. What are you two doing here? She said to them.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We got trapped on the trip to the moon. The gears got stuck, said Bess. So you kids are performers?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hey, what's Harry doing? said Annie. Harry had walked down to the footlights. He was bowing to the crowd and the audience was screaming and cheering. Harry raised his hands to quiet them. Then he motioned to Jack and Annie. Come here, kiddos, he said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie walked down stage. Harry put one arm around Jack's shoulders and the other around Annie's. Then he looked back out at the crowd.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Folks, wasn't that the worst magic act you've ever seen?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hah, it's all part of the show. I asked my young friends to warm you up for me, and that they did. Now, I think you're ready, no? Yes, the audience screamed. Yes. Harry looked from Annie to Jack. You can relax now, kiddos, he said. The great Houdini has arrived.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You? You? breathed Annie. You're the great Houdini? said Jack. He couldn't believe it.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Just give us a moment to set up our show. Houdini shouted to the audience. Sit tight and we'll be back quick as a wink.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] In the meantime, how about a nice hand for these funny little magicians? Music played, Jack and Annie bowed, the crowd roared enthusiastically, and the red curtain came down. Bess rushed over to Jack and Annie. Thanks for helping us out, she said. We had no idea you had a comedy act, Harry said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We had no idea you were the great Houdini, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] That's what we figured, said Bess. Forgive us for having a little fun with you two. Hurry, hurry, Mr. Dewey said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Thanks again you crazy kids for covering for us, said Bess hugging Jack and Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Everyone, please clear the stage, Mr. Wilson said. We have to reset. Stick around and watch us, Bess said to Jack and Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She guided them to a couple of chairs just off stage. Sit here, I have to help Harry. She hurried back to the dressing room. As crowd noises filled the theater, Annie turned to Jack. Can you believe it? She said. No, I can't. I can't believe it, said Jack. He was in a daze.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Maybe we'll learn the secret of greatness from him now, said Annie, hopefully. Oh, right, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He pulled off his gloves and looked at the ring of truth on his finger. He hoped it would soon start to glow. While the Houdinis prepared for the show.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The stagehands found all the rabbits and doves and put them back in their cages.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They picked up the cards and rings and hauled the table away.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Set Harry's cabinet center stage, Mr. Wilson called.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Hank and Butch carried a wooden cabinet onto the stage, black fabric covered three sides of it, and a black curtain hung in front. Just as the audience began to stamp their feet,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Bess was wearing white tights and a short pleated dress.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Her delicate face was framed by a ring of dark curls. Harry was dressed in an elegant black suit, his hair combed back neatly. The curtain rose and the orchestra played a rousing tune. Bess stood beside the cabinet while Harry stepped into a spotlight.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] For a long moment he gazed intensely at the audience when the noisy crowd grew quiet.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He spoke in a voice that carried all the way to the back of the theater.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ladies and gentlemen, I, Harry Houdini, would like to make a bet with you.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I'll bet a thousand dollars there is no lock that can hold me captive tonight.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] From that moment on, Harry Houdini was the master of escape. As the orchestra played, he performed easily with humor and confidence. Several times during his act, he invited volunteers on stage to make sure all his locks were securely locked and all his knots were tightly tied. During his first trick, Houdini asked the audience volunteers to check three pairs of handcuffs


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] That Bess had locked around his wrists. Then he stepped inside his cabinet. Bess closed the black curtain. Let's count to ten together, she called to the crowd. Everyone counted, one, two, three. On the count of ten, Houdini threw open the curtain, his handcuffs dangling from his hand. Jack and Annie gasped.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Bess not only locked handcuffs around Houdini's wrists.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She also wrapped chains around his ankles and secured them with padlocks.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Again, excited volunteers made certain that all the locks were truly locked. When the black curtain closed, Bess asked everyone to count again. On the count of ten, Harry threw open the curtain, freed from his shackles and handcuffs. The crowd clapped and cheered. And now, he said, the master of escape will share with you


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Vess put the three pairs of handcuffs around his wrists again.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] After volunteers checked the locks, Houdini climbed inside the milk can. Jack and Annie stood up to watch.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Houdini lowered himself into the water until he was completely inside the can. Water splashed over the sides. Bess then closed the lid, padlocked it, and pulled the black curtain. While the can was out of sight, the orchestra played tick-tock, tick-tock. Jack could hardly breathe as one minute went by. Two minutes. Someone in the audience cried out with alarm.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] How does Harry keep from drowning? Jack wondered anxiously.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He stepped to the side and pointed to the lid of the can. It was still locked firmly in place. Bess brought Harry a red robe and the audience cheered. The orchestra played triumphant music.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The whole time Houdini had been performing his tricks.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack had listened carefully to everything he'd said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ladies and gentlemen, my chief task is to conquer fear.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ladies and gentlemen, an old trick in a new dress is always a pleasant change.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Every time Houdini said something that sounded meaningful, Jack checked the ring of truth.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He kept hoping that some secret of greatness would be revealed. But no matter what Harry said, the gold ring didn't glow. After the milk can trick, the stage crew replaced the can with a steamer trunk. Finally, for old time's sake.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I close with the act that first made me famous, said Houdini. The drummer played a drum roll, then Houdini shouted,


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The world famous original metamorphosis in three seconds.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] For this amazing feat, I will share the spotlight with the one and only Mrs. Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry took Bess's hand, and she curtsied for the crowd.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Years ago, I met this beautiful gal right here on Coney Island. Houdini said, I love her with all my heart, but now she must become my prisoner. The audience laughed as a stagehand brought out a short, thick rope.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry quickly tied Bess's hands behind her back.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Dear one, I must now ask you to step into this bag.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Bess stepped into a large canvas bag and Houdini tied the bag at the top.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] With Hank and Butch's help, Houdini lifted Bess into the steamer trunk that had been placed inside the cabinet. Then Hank and Butch closed the trunk, wrapped it with a rope, and locked it with padlocks.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] After volunteers checked to see that the trunk was securely bound and locked, Houdini shouted, Behold a miracle!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As the audience watched and waited, three loud claps rang out from behind the curtain. The curtain was thrown open.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Beth stood in front of the roped and locked trunk, completely free.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She quickly cut the rope around the trunk, unlocked the padlocks, untied the sack, and out jumped the great Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Everyone leapt to their feet, applauding and roaring, bravo, bravo. Jack and Annie clapped and shouted with them as the Houdinis bowed again and again.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Ladies and gentlemen, let me assure you that I have shown you no supernatural powers tonight. Harry shouted.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Please know that magic is all tricks. Everything you saw tonight was illusion. And Harry Houdini.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Is the greatest master of illusion in the world, Jack thought. Jack's only disappointment was that all during the Great Houdini Show, the ring of truth had not glowed once. Not even the tiniest bit.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey, Mr. Wilson, Butch and Hank.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Actually went down on his knees to thank them.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Come on, I wanna tell them great show too, she said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] But as Jack and Annie started toward the Houdinis, some teenage boys rushed on stage ahead of them.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Sorry boys, said Mr. Wilson, stepping between the boys and the Houdinis.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Houdini is exhausted from his magnificent performance. You'll have to buy a ticket and come back again.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Come on, Harry, let's get you two out of here, Mr. Dewey said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As Mr. Dewey whisked Harry and Bess backstage, Jack and Annie followed them.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey ushered the couple into their dressing room. He hurried in after them and closed the door. Annie was about to knock, but Jack stopped her. Don't bother them yet, he said. Let them relax a minute first. We'll see them when they come out. Good idea, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] As the crew cleared all the hooligan fans off the stage.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They waited as Hank and Butch took away Houdini's cabinet, his milk can and his steamer trunk.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They waited as Mrs. Crenshaw collected the bird and rabbit cages and carried them away.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They waited as Mr. Wilson swept the floor and turned off the stage lights.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They should be relaxed by now, said Annie. No kidding, said Jack. He tapped softly on the door. There was no answer. Annie knocked louder. Bess? Harry? She called. Still no one answered. Annie tried the handle, but the door was locked.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They're gone, said Mr. Wilson, passing by Jack and Annie in the hall. Gone? said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Yes, both the Houdinis left a while ago, the stage manager said. Left? How? asked Jack. He and Annie had been watching the door every minute.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Mr. Dewey took him through the secret exit out of the star's dressing room, said Mr. Wilson. He goes through the basement and out of the theater, otherwise they'd be mobbed by all the crazy fans. So they're really gone? said Jack. They don't call Harry the master of escape for nothing, Mr. Wilson said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] You'd better change out of your costumes and get going too. We'll be locking up the building soon.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie walked down the hall and into their dressing room. I can't believe it, Annie wailed. We didn't even get to tell them great show.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Worse than that, we didn't get to find out a secret of greatness, said Jack. He held up his finger with the ring of truth. The ring didn't glow all night.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I guess all we can do is get dressed and go look for them, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie quickly changed out of the tuxedos and back into their street clothes.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack grabbed his bag and put his watch in the pocket of his pants. Come on, hurry, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] She and Jack rushed out the back door of the theater.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They ran down the dark alley, past the row of garbage cans, and out to the street.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Surf Avenue was still bright with lights, and just as busy as before, the sidewalks were still crowded with lots of people.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The old-timey cars and horses and buggies filled the cobbled street. They could be anywhere, said Jack. They could even have gone home. Let's try Luna Park, said Annie. Why would they go back there, asked Jack, especially after getting trapped on their trip to the moon. I don't know, there's lots they might want to do there, said Annie. She gasped.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] At the same moment they'd each remembered best saying, ice cream always comes after the show. To the ice cream stand, said Annie. And fast, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie took off up the street dodging people along the way.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They ran to the tall arches where ticket sellers and chariots were still welcoming people into Luna Park. Admission, ten cents each, one said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack and Annie dumped the rest of their pennies into the ticket seller's hands. Then they took off dashing up the broad avenue.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Weaving around couples and children and barkers on stilts and unicycles. When they came to the ice cream stand, they found a line of people waiting to buy cones. Panting, Jack looked up and down the line. The two Houdinis were nowhere to be seen. Jack's spirits fell, but Annie poked him. What? Jack said. Annie pointed at the terrace.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry and Bess were sitting on a bench side by side holding ice cream cones. Their big hats hid their faces. Jack laughed. Now I get it.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They wear those hats so fans won't recognize them, he said. Well, they can't fool us, said Annie. Come on. Annie and Jack headed over to the bench. When they were close, Annie put her finger to her lips. Jack understood what she meant. Without greeting Harry or Bess, Jack and Annie sat down next to them. Great ice cream, huh? said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Great, said Bess, not looking up. Would you call it the greatest in the world? Asked Jack. Tilting her head, Bess peeked out from under the brim of her hat. She laughed loudly. Hey, Harry, look! She exclaimed. It's our little friends. Harry raised his hat and laughed too.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The crazy kiddos, he said. So what's the story? What the heck were you two doing up on that stage tonight?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We just love to perform, said Annie with a giggle.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We just love to make fools of ourselves, said Jack. Making a fool of yourself is a brave thing to do, Harry said, smiling.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] That's what Aristotle once told us, said Annie, more or less. Jack glanced at the ring of truth. It wasn't glowing. Mr. Houdini, someone said. A man stood in front of the bench. He started to clap. Oh dear, murmured Bess. You were unbelievable tonight.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The man said, I never saw anything like what you did. Other people turned to look.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They recognized Harry too and began gathering in front of the bench telling him how great he was. Harry finished his ice cream cone.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Then he stood up and started shaking hands with his admirers. Bess shook her head and sighed. He's always nice to people, she said to Jack and Annie, no matter how tired he is.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry's fans kept asking questions. How do you do it? How did you escape from those handcuffs? How did you get out of that milk can?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] First of all, let me assure you again that I have no supernatural powers, said Harry.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] It's all illusion. These skills just happen to come easily to me. Always have. I remember when I was a kid. Jack looked at the ring of truth. Nothing. That's not the real story.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Best said quietly to Jack and Annie, her eyes twinkling. What is the real story? Annie asked her.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry's always worked very, very hard, she said. He's worked all his life.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] When he was a little boy he sold newspapers and flowers.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] He practiced coin tricks and card tricks for hours every day. He read every book he could find on magic.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Those skills did not come naturally to him.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They came from hard work and more practice than most people could endure.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Jack thought about how he and Annie had only done their magic tricks once. With the help of the magic mist, no wonder


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They'd failed so spectacularly the second time. So a secret is hard work, said Annie. You've got it, kiddo, said Bess. But that's not such a big secret, is it?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Anyone would have to work hard to be truly great at something. Yeah, they would, said Jack. Oh wow, Annie whispered to Jack. She pointed at his hand. Jack looked down and smiled. The ring of truth was finally glowing.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Chapter 10. Best escape act ever.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Annie grinned at Jack. Done, she whispered. Done, Jack agreed. Now he can leave. Harry and I have to go too, said Bess.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I want to get him out of here before he attracts the wrong types. Hooligans and crazy fans? asked Annie. You got it! said Bess. Harry! she called. Time's up!


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] They think I do truly magical things, but it's not true. It's all just entertainment. It's all tricks.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry's never seen anyone do a trick he couldn't do himself, said Bess. That's a fact, said Harry, nothing ever. Amazing, said Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Amazing, yes, but it's also a great sadness, said Harry frowning. The world's lost its wonder for me.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] I would be so happy, just once, to see a bit of magic I could never do or never explain. Really? said Jack. Yes, but it's not going to happen, Harry said with a sigh. Well, I'm ready, my love, let's go home. Yes, let's, said Beth standing. She looked at Jack and Annie. Which way are you two going? Just down that way, Jack said.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] And then he had a great idea. He smiled at Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Let's walk them as far as the Japanese tea garden. Annie's eyes lit up. She seemed to know what Jack was thinking. Good plan, she said. Sure, let's all go together, said Bess. Harry, Bess, Jack and Annie.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] All stepped down from the terrace and started up the broad avenue.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The band was playing after the ball is over.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Did you try many rides? The pirate ship or the Navy ship sailing the deep ocean? The Arctic trip.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] No, but we've done all those things before, said Jack.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Did you get to experience the cyclone attraction too? said Bess. The volcano? The big fire?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Actually, we've experienced all those things too," said Jack. Really? said Bess. So you must have been in this park a long time? No, I was talking about real life, Jack said matter-of-factly.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] My sister and I travel in a magic tree house to different times and places and have lots of adventures. Annie grinned. Jack's telling the truth, she said. We've been all through time. Harry and Bess chuckled. Sounds like a good act, said Harry. It does, doesn't it? Said Bess delightedly. Where else do you perform your act besides Coney Island?


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] We don't really perform this act for anyone, said Annie. It's usually a secret. But we'll show it to you, said Jack. Lucky us, said Bess, winking at Harry. The tree house is parked in the Japanese tea garden, said Annie. You want to see it? It'll only take a minute. Sure, why not, said Harry.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Bess and Harry followed Jack and Annie over to the wooden gate that led to the Japanese tea garden. They followed them through the gateway up the pebble path.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] A tree house. Well, how about that? said Harry. He sounded genuinely surprised. I never knew that was here.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] That's because it's only been here for a few hours, said Annie. You wanna watch us take off? Asked Jack. Take off, said Bess. Yep.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] The tree house is gonna take us back home to Pennsylvania now, said Jack, to a time more than a hundred years from today. In the future, Annie added. Bess and Harry laughed. You two might be the looniest kids in the world, said Bess. We're the best actors, said Harry. Wait and see, said Annie. She held out her hand. Bye, Harry.


[User] Please transcribe this text

[Assistant] Harry shook Annie's hand, and then he shook Jack's. Bess grabbed each of them and gave them big hugs. You two kiddos are great, she said, giggling. You're just my kind of screwballs. They all laughed. Then Jack and Annie climbed up the rope ladder. Inside the treehouse, Annie picked up the Pennsylvania book, and she and Jack looked out the window. Bye! They both waved to Harry and Bess.