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The Alchemist’s Assistant

by Philip J. Lees

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I mixed bark shavings with powdered zinc, dripped in my special philtre and pulped the mixture with the pestle. But when I ignited it there was just a fizzle.

“Alphonse!” I called. He shuffled up, ducking my habitual cuff. He did as I had done, same ingredients, same proportions, then applied the flame.

Bang! A glowing residue in the crucible. This time it worked.

For this I pay him.

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- End -

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© Copyright Philip J. Lees 2004