But a puritanical mother had, on the tour preceding, written Professor O'Reilley, objecting to the devil's conquest of the unrepentant old reprobate, so that master of ventriloquism introduced a new character into the ancient tale, and the devil went the way of Punch's other victims.
"H-m-m," puzzled John with wrinkled brow. "This isn't the same—What's that?"
"Open," ordered Punch of the long, flat object which appeared beside the body of the devil.
"It's an aggilator," shrilled Louise as the mystery disclosed two terrific rows of teeth and a long, red throat.
"Shut," ordered Punch. The jaws closed with a snap.
"Isn't it peachy?" whispered John.
"Open," ordered Punch once more. Again the jaws swung slowly and impressively apart.
"Close," repeated Punch, as he stooped dangerously near the yawning cavern.