At a radius of 41⁄2″ from the center describe a semicircle upon the disc at E F ([Fig. 6]), whilst upon the same half of the cylinder describe a line as G H in the same figure. Now pierce about twenty-five equidistant holes in E F and G H, joining them with thread, as in [Fig. 7].
Cover these threads with little strips of paper in such a manner as to make a plane surface, as shown in [Fig. 8]. Then fasten a cork upon the end of a wire attached to the stick, and in a cleft in this cork put a little cardboard figure as in the illustration.
Make the disc revolve by a rapid turn of the hand, and if a candle be so placed as to cast the shadow of the little man upon the disc, he will be seen engaged in making sundry passes and lunges in the manner of the perfect fencer.
Fig. 7.—Mode of joining thread.
Fig. 8.—The toy complete.
Various other figures can be made in a similar way with great success, and when cleverly managed the toy will be found most amusing.
Life Partners
If at any time it should happen that an engaged couple are amongst the friends whom you wish to entertain, a very simple piece of apparatus can be made that will give these good people much pleasure.