Effect
The Ball of Fortune
Theodore Annemann · Practical Mental Effects, 1944
- Time
- 5 min read + 10 min practice
- Materials
- In the library
- Prerequisites
- None
Take care. Working with these objects and effects is inherently dangerous; anyone who attempts them does so at their own risk. Anybody under 18 is advised to undertake them only with a parent's permission and supervision.
Effect
The performer picks up a fair size ball of wool with a pair of knitting needles through it, saying, “This was the property of an old Gypsie who used to be renowned in our village because of her ability to tell fortunes.
With your permission, I would like to show you a most peculiar effect using this ball of wool and this glass bowl.” The performer has replaced the ball of wool on his table, and from his pocket has taken a blank card and a lead pencil. He selects two persons as subjects. One is asked to name a number from 1 to 1,000,000. The other is asked to name any color. The performer writes both the number and color on the card, leaving it with the spectators as a check.
Returning to the table he picks up the ball of wool, withdraws the needles, and hands it to a third spectator together with a glass bowl or dish. The spectator puts the ball into the bowl and unreels the wool. In the center of the ball is discovered a cardboard key tag. On one side is written the chosen number, and on the other side is found the selected color!
How it is done
The method, 2 drawings and all it needs, inside the library.
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