In order to do this he would go to a nearby horse-trough and drink it dry; would eat a number of pounds of soap, or other nauseating substance, clowning it in a manner to provoke amusement instead of disgust; and, further to mask the disagreeable features--and also, no doubt, to conceal the trick--would take the cloth from the table and cover his face; whereupon he would bring forth the swallowed cat, or one that looked like it, which would howl piteously and seem to struggle wildly while being disgorged.

When freed, the poor cat would rush away among the spectators.
Dufour gave his best performances in the evening, as he could then show his hocus-pocus to best advantage.

At these times he appeared with a halo of fire about his head.
His last appearance in Paris was most remarkable.

The dinner began with a soup of asps in simmering oil.

On each side was a dish of vegetables, one containing thistles and burdocks, and the other fuming acid.