It was not known that Willard was present until Houdini came before the footlights and requested any "gentleman" in the audience to step on the stage and guard those present from any possible deception.
After about 10 men had stepped on the platform, Houdini stepped forward and said, smiling:
"Now I need three more gentlemen on this stage and there is a man here to-night who doesn't know I am aware of his presence. He will be enough for three ordinary gentlemen if he will serve on this committee."
"He is Jess Willard, our champion."
Taken by surprise, the audience was silent for a moment and then broke into tumultous hand-clapping. Cheers and shrieks resounding throughout the house.
Houdini looked up on the balcony, where Willard was seated, and said:
"I will leave it to the audience, Mr. Willard. You see they want to see you."
A fresh outburst occurred, even more violent than before.
"Aw, g'wan with your act," came Willard's rough reply as the audience stilled itself. "I paid for my seat here."
"But, Mr. Willard," expostulated Houdini, "I—