Houdini, Harry (Ehrich Weisz). Houdini TLS to James Wobensmith Regarding Spiritualism Tests. Dated Feb. 9, 1926, Houdini writes to invite the noted amateur magician, author of a book on magic patents, and patent attorney for Howard Thurston to the ?tests? he will perform at the Chestnut Street Opera House in Philadelphia, ?where the Christian Spiritual Union will endeavor to prove to the public intercommunication with the dead is a reality. Enclosed you will find a copy of the challenge.? Accompanying the letter is the referred to copy, stating that Houdini will forfeit $10,000 to anyone who can prove that communication between the living and the dead is possible without trickery. The judges as to the authenticity of the phenomena are to include ?six clergymen, six newspaper-men, and six magicians.? Old folds and losses, TLS trimmed somewhat and hinged to paper. The latter boldly signed ?Houdini.?