Laid in is a copy of the shipboard concert program for July 12, 1913 featuring Houdini in a “special mid-ocean performance" featuring a range of classic magic tricks (Egg Bag, Burnt Turban, Color Changing Handkerchief, Hindoo Needle Trick), but only one escape (“The world famous handcuff trick"). The first gift inscription in the book (to “Betty") was followed several days later with Houdini's page-length inscription and autograph.
In all likelihood, the recipient of this volume received it from her “auntie" before embarking. After witnessing Houdini's show on the ship, Betty had the book autographed by him to further commemorate her trip. Houdini made several tours of Europe, and programs from his trip aboard the S.S. Imperator (and photographs of him on deck with Teddy Roosevelt) occasionally come to market. But the program for his appearance on this ship – let alone autographs from the trip – are far rarer.