they are all human beings and governed by the same impulses

“What was your most difficult feat, the most difficult escape you ever made?” was asked.

“I think my escape from the Siberian Transport was my most difficult performance. I was placed in the great vault usually assigned to political prisoners, and when the great door was shut, I had the hardest time of my life, perhaps, in releasing myself. But nevertheless, it took me 18 minutes to walk out, and face the dazed officials.

“I think that in a year I may retire. I cannot take my money with me when I die and I wish to enjoy it, with my family, while I live. I should prefer living in Germany to any other country, though I am an American, and am loyal to my country. "
Harry Houdini (Erich Weiss)

interviewed by Edna Ferber
Appleton Public Library (WI)