HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 ? 1926). Firsthand Account of a Houdini Performance. Hand dated on First Congregational Church of Oak Park, IL stationery on Nov. 25, 1906, the unknown author (perhaps the church's pastor, Rev. Barton), writes in detail about Houdini's escapes: ?Time occupied by Houdini in getting out of 5 pairs of handcuffs and 2 pairs of anklets, the wrists fastened to the ankle chains, 7 minutes. ? Time getting out of straight-jacket, 4 minutes ?." The report goes on to describe a coat turning effect, the Metamorphosis performed with his ?sister," and mentions the not-often cited dodge in the performance thereof with a coat borrowed from the audience. One 8vo sheet. A fascinating first-person account of Houdini's vaudeville act. Kevin Connolly Collection.