With a simple, unassuming cover design, this is just the kind of trick that often goes ignored in the display case at your local magic shop. However, when it's demonstrated, it's a guaranteed sale.

The magician introduces a 5" x 7" envelope, stating that it contains a prediction. He then deals cards face down, one at a time onto the envelope, tilting it such that each card slides to the table, forming a pile. The spectator calls stop whenever he wishes, whereupon the magician gives him the choice of either the card on the envelope, the last card dealt onto the pile, or the next card on top of the deck. The spectator makes his choice. The cards on the table are turned face up, showing them all to be different. The remaining cards in the deck are turned face up, showing them to be different. But when the prediction (a jumbo card) is removed from the envelope, it matches the selection!

Created by Phil Matlin (who also devised the cunning effect, Silver Sanctums), the only downside to this wonderful trick is that it requires a modicum of table-space. Other than that, it fools one and all, without sleights, roughing fluid, switches or gimmicked envelopes.


David Acer