The Magic Stick.
The principal actor in this trick takes his place in the center of the room armed with a long stick, with which he describes several circles, etc., on the carpet, at the same time muttering a mock incantation, after which he touches one of the company (his accomplice) on the shoulder, bidding him quit the room, preparatory to guessing on whom the magic stick would pause in its evolutions. The magician then touches several of the company, one after another, lightly, with his wand, each time saying, “The wand passes,” until he allows it to pause at one particular person, saying, “The wand rests.” His accomplice immediately names the person who has spoken last; this being the one indicated by the stick. The person leaving the room must, of course, be within hearing, and the magician must artfully encourage the company to keep up a conversation.