"Because it was a seven-day disappearer that Clarence made. I also know how to make a nine-day, a thirteen-day, a twenty-seven-day, and an eleven-year disappearer. I was going to make a thirteen-day one, but for that you have to color the ends with the blood from a little boy's heart, and Cyril cried every time I tried to make a good cut."
"You really know how to make all of these?"
"Yes. But I shudder if the knowledge should ever come into unauthorized hands."
"I shudder too, Clarissa. But tell me, why did you want the chemicals?"
"For my chemistry set."
"And the black velvet?"
"For doll dresses."
"And the pound of rock candy?"
"How did you ever get to be mayor of this town if you have to ask questions like that? What do you think I wanted the rock candy for?"
"One last question," said the mayor. "Why did you smash my gold watch with the hammer?"