KING AND CONJUROR.
4 • Signor Bellachini, the renown prestidi* gifator, who has recently been honored by the German Emperor with the complementary title of 'Royal Court Artist,' obtained this unprecedented distinction by a somewhat remarkable feat of dexterity. Having observed that the venerable monarch for some jears past fres quently a( tended his performances and exhibited a lively interest in the magical arts of which he is a Past Master, Bella* chini conceived the bold project of turning imperial favor t.o account, and, made formal application to His Majesty for an audience. His petition was granted, and the Emperor received him at an appointed hour in the sludy overlooking the Linden avenue, his favorite room, in which lie transacts business every morning and afternoon. AUer chatting for a few minutes with the accomplished coDJaror upon subjects connected with his profession, William I. asked with a smile, ' Well, Bellachiui, and what is it yon want of me?' 'It is my most humble request, Sire, that Your Majesty would deign to appoint me your Court Artist.' ' I will do so, Bellaehini, but on one consideration only — namely, that you forth* with perform an extraordinary clover trick worthy of the favor you solicit.' "With; out a moment's hesitation Bellachiui took up a pea from the Emperor's ink* stand, handed it with a sheet of paper to His Majesty, and requested him to write the words, ' Bellacbini can do nothing at all/ The Emperor attempted to comply, but, si range io say, neither pen ncr ink could be persuaded to fulfil tbeir func tions. 'Now, Sire,' said Bellaehini, ' will your Majesty condescend to write the words ' Bellaehini is the Emperor's Court Artist ?' " The second attempt was as successful as the first had been the contrary ; peD, ink, and paper, delivered trom the spell cast over them by the magician, proved perfectly docile (o the imperial hand, and the Bellachini's ingenious trick was rewarded on the spot by his nomination to the desired honorific office, made out in the Emperors own writing.
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Inangahua Times, Volume II, Issue II, 10 November 1880, Page 2
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337KING AND CONJUROR. Inangahua Times, Volume II, Issue II, 10 November 1880, Page 2
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