I was informed today that when in China, CC experienced first hand ' incredible feats of magic ' by the chinese magicians e.g. at banquets, plates of food ' howering ' by themselves and then coming to rest on the dining tables?

This is apparently recorded in CC's diaries?

Can any one enlighten me about this and provide the diary text?

Was he regarded as a fool or taken seriously about this?

Thanks

franjac1@westnet.com.au.