Soon after the introduction of science into Italy, the houses of the virtuosi began to abound in all kinds of curious mechanical surprises, and, as they were termed, magical effects.

In the latter the invention of the magic-lantern greatly assisted.

Not without reason did the ecclesiastics detest experimental philosophy, for a result of no little importance ensued--the juggler became a successful rival to the miracle-worker.

The pious frauds enacted in the churches lost their wonder when brought into competition with the tricks of the conjurer in the market-place: he breathed flame, walked on burning coals, held red-hot iron in his teeth, drew basketfuls of eggs out of his mouth, worked miracles by marionettes.

Yet the old idea of the supernatural was with difficulty destroyed.