John blinked. He wasn't sure what had just happened. He remembered staring at Mesmero's coin, but he couldn't remember anything after that.
"Well, shoot. It looks like I wasn't able to put you in a trance."
John tried to act nonchalantly, "Yeah, I guess I'm just too distractible."
The hypnotist gave him a sly smile, "Well, I guess I'll try someone else. You're free to go."
John stood up, and began walking to his family. He just hoped they had enough time to see the other exhibits, because clearly this one was a flop.
Mesmero grinned. It was time to let the cat out of the bag.