Comic Chest Expander for Play or Stage Use
The Performer’s Chest “Swells with Pride” When He Draws on the String by Shifting His Position
A device used in an amateur vaudeville sketch with good effect, and which is interesting for play purposes, was made of a ¹⁄₃₂ by 9 by 14-in. piece of sheet spring brass, rigged as shown. In the center, near the upper edge, a small pulley was soldered, and at the center of the bottom edge a small hole was drilled. In it was fastened one end of a 4-ft. string which ran up through the pulley. The other end was fastened to a strap to fit around the leg just above the knee. At the two upper corners of the brass sheet two slots were cut to accommodate similar straps, as fastenings. When the wearer stands in a normal position the chest is as usual, but by straightening the body and slightly moving the strapped leg back, the brass sheet is bowed outward, giving the appearance indicated.—Arthur L. Kaser, South Bend, Ind.
¶Square cardboard disks fastened to the ends of a spool with thumb tacks will prevent it from rolling.