The Magician's Assistant

Long ago, a foolish boy named Gilroy became the servant of a very smart man.

The man’s name was Wallace. He spoke many languages and knew all the secrets of the universe. He also owned magic objects and could cast powerful spells.

Wallace had a big leather book. It was locked shut and chained to a table. When he wanted to read the book, he unlocked it with an iron key.

“This book contains magic secrets and spells,” Wallace told the boy. “I am the only one who should open it.”

One day, when Wallace was away, Gilroy quietly entered Wallace’s special room. He wanted to perform some spells on his own.

Using one of Wallace’s wands, Gilroy tried—and failed—to turn copper into gold.

Next, Gilroy looked into a special mirror. When Wallace stood before it, he could see any location in the world. Gilroy saw only swirling smoke.

Then he held to his ear the shell that spoke wise words to Wallace. Gilroy heard only the sound of the sea.