Secrets of Lightning Transformations
There is another variety of peep-show well worthy of attention. It is known as the “mechanical” peep-show. A short account of the finished show will not be out of place before proceeding with a more detailed description.
Upon looking through the peep-holes the interior of a cottage is perceived, including side wings. The next moment, however, a faint click is heard—and the interior of the cottage miraculously vanishes, giving place to a scene in a forest glade!
The simplest and most satisfactory manner of explaining this marvelous transformation is to describe how one of these “mechanical” shows may be made.
Procure a wooden box similar to the first of those employed in the manufacture of the previous show. Having decided upon the number of peep-holes, cut them out in the manner [already described]. Another “stage front” must then be fixed in position about 3 inches from the peep-holes ([Fig. 1]). For the sake of convenience it is advisable to turn the box upside down, with the lid at the bottom instead of the top. This will permit the interior of the show being attended to without unnecessarily disturbing the mechanism.
Having, for the time being, finished with the body of the peep-show, turn your attention to the internal parts. These are by no means complicated.
Fig. 1.—Handles and tin clip for holding scenes.
First obtain a piece of white drawing-card, and cut it to fit exactly the back of the box. Then take another piece, half the size of the first, and hinge it by means of a strip of linen and gum to the center as shown in A A, [Fig. 2].
With the flap thus formed hanging downwards, place the card upon the table, and proceed to paint thereon a forest scene (C, [Fig. 2]). If a suitable illustration can be procured from a magazine it will only be necessary to paste it on the card and carefully trim the edges.