vii. The Vocalist.
“Bring out the Vocalist. I now call your attention to the most costly of all my figures. This wonderful automaton singer represents Signorina Squallini, the unrivaled Vocalist, whose notes are current in every market, and sway all hearts, at her own sweet will.
“Wind her up, and let her liquid notes pour forth.”
She gesticulates wildly, and sings a few notes in a very extravagant manner, then stops with a hoarse sound.
Mrs. J.—“John, this figure needs oiling. Why do you not attend to your duties better?”
John gets oil-can, which he applies to each ear of the figure, which strikes a high note, and sings with much expression and many trills, then makes a gurgling sound, as if running down, and suddenly stops again.
Costume.—Evening dress.