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The Magic Chase


On the top of a finely-pointed wire, rising perpendicularly from the

conductor, let another wire, sharpened at each end, be made to move

freely, as on a centre. If it be well balanced, and the points bent

horizontally, in opposite directions, it will, when electrified, turn

very swiftly round, by the re-action of the air against the current

which flows from off the points. These points may be nearly concealed,

and the figures of men and horses, with hounds, and a hare, stag, or

fox, may be placed upon the wires, so as to turn round with them, when

they appear as if in pursuit. The chase may be diversified, and a

greater variety of figures upon them, by increasing the number of

wires proceeding from the same centre.



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