4086. Words which fully answer these conditions are the best for the purposes of charades; though many other words are employed.
4087. In writing, the first syllable is termed "My first," the second syllable, "My second," and the complete word, "My whole."
4088. Charade.—
My first a mineral, England can produce,
Much prized for ornament as well as use;
It adds new beauty to our "cottage homes,"
And to the fireside of the wealthy comes.
My second is a rough and boisterous thing,
And much calamity and woe may bring;
My whole is but a little fluttering bird,
Which near to men's abode is often heard.
4089. Answer.—Sparrow.
4090. Ventriloquism.—The main secret of ventriloquism simply consists in first making a strong and deep inspiration, by which a considerable quantity of air is introduced into the lungs, to be afterward acted upon by the flexible powers of the larynx, or cavity situated behind the tongue and the windpipe; thus prepared, the expiration should be slow and gradual. Any person, by practice can, therefore, obtain more or less expertness in this exercise, in which, though not apparently, the voice is still modified by the mouth and tongue; and it is in the concealment of this aid that much of the perfection of ventriloquism lies.