Conjurer. You would really be willing to pay a sum like this to know the way I did that trick?
Duke. I would willingly pay much more.
Doctor. I think I explained to you that the case is serious.
Conjurer. [More and more thoughtful.] You would pay much more.... [Suddenly.] But suppose I tell you the secret and you find there's nothing in it?
Doctor. You mean that it's really quite simple? Why, I should say that that would be the best thing that could possibly happen. A little healthy laughter is the best possible thing for convalescence.
Conjurer. [Still looking gloomily at the cheque.] I do not think you will laugh.
Duke. [Reasoning genially.] But as you say it is something quite simple.
Conjurer. It is the simplest thing there is in the world. That is why you will not laugh.
Doctor. [Almost nervously.] Why, what do you mean? What shall we do?
Conjurer. [Gravely.] You will disbelieve it.