Who was the magician Mayhew interviewed and how did he become a magician?

The Street Conjurer or magician interviewed was the son of an affluent man who worked in the Customs office. He being an extra on stage, to acting at the age of 15. After the show closed, he worked as the doorkeeper until the owner mentioned an opening for a magician. With no knowledge, skill or experience, he volunteered. Quickly learning the slight-of-hand.