Fortunes in fleas

An unusual source of income, surely, is that enjoyed by Professor Heckler, of New York, who has just stated that he made 1,200…

An unusual source of income, surely, is that enjoyed by Professor Heckler, of New York, who has just stated that he made 1,200 dollars last year out of his troupe of performing fleas.

Trained fleas have a long established place in the history of the stage, and centuries ago they entertained the Royalty of Europe with their skilful performances. Professor Heckler saw one of these travelling shows in Switzerland in 1897, and immediately recognised the possibility of further developing the flea's talents. It was not until 1905 that he devoted himself to the training of an expert troupe.

The professor informed an interviewer that the life of a flea lasts about six months. They are very temperamental, it appears, some being slow and stubborn, and others intelligent and quick. Most people will have had experience of the latter variety, I imagine.

To those who might feel inclined to follow his example he says: "Leave the dog fleas alone. It is the human flea that is capable of being trained. And if you find a good one, be patient with him; for if you lose your temper and strike him once, he is finished."

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The Irish Times, July 25th, 1931.