This character goes back to the early days of Faire Wynds, where Eric traveled by himself as a Singing Master/Balladeer. In addition, as these men were often better educated, they would carry letters from post to post, often paying for a nights lodging or food and drink by writing and reading letters. And while 'magic' as we know it in the modern times was different than the 18th century, it wasn't uncommon for one of these traveling men to perforrm small feats as an escompteur usning cups and balls and the American equivalent the 'shell and pea'. They were dexerious with card and rope as well. They would sing tunes old and new, sometimes even selling the 'broadsides' for the common people to have for themselves.

As you can see from the below Playbill, used at both 'Trade Faire' at Martin's Station in Tennesee and 'Under the Crown' in North Augusta, South Carolina, when performng this character Eric does a number of different things throughout the day. Sometimes setting on a porch or under a tree singing by himself, often he wanders thorough the camp inviting others to join him in a round or singing along with him from one of the ballad sheets he carries. Sometimes he leaves the entertainments back and, taking quill and parchment takes a turn around the area calling 'Letters read, letters writ' for all to know such an educated person has arrived and is available. A bit of prestidigitation might be called for, demonstrating the work of the escompteur with cup and ball-or the 18th century Colonial version the 'shell and pea'. And if asked, he is more than willing to turn into a 'gaming master' and spend time teaching anyone desiring how to play such popular card games as 'Whist' and 'Lanterloo'.