To their greeting the distinguished looking figure at the table vouchsafed no response; his attitude of profound meditation remained unchanged. Somewhat taken aback by this frigid reception, the worthy deacon, after a moment's hesitation, turned an inquiring look upon Mr. John Rogers.

"And the voice?" added Deacon Stimpson.

"An' the gesturin'?" concluded Deacon Grubb.

"Nothing easier," said the inventor. "You are, of course, familiar with the principles of the phonograph. I will frankly state that I have adopted this idea – in an improved form, of course – in constructing the clericomotor."

He approached the automaton. "Now, gentlemen," he continued, "if you will give me your closest attention, I will show you how the figure is operated."

The deacons crowded round him in open-mouthed expectancy. He went on glibly: "By pressing on the right-hand button at the back of the coat a trap-door, you observe, flies open between the shoulder-blades. Into this receptacle I slide this prepared electro-type plate. By pressing upon the left-hand button I close the trap-door. Now, if you will cast your eyes at the calf of the left leg, you will see a small projecting rod. To this I attach an ordinary crank – thus." Suiting the action to the word, he placed the handle in position and turned it vigorously.