Doctor. And why?
Conjurer. Because it is so simple. [He springs suddenly to his feet, the cheque still in his hand.] You ask me how I really did the last trick. I will tell you how I did the last trick. I did it by magic.
[The Duke and Doctor stare at him motionless; but the Rev. Smith starts and takes a step nearer the table. The Conjurer pulls his cloak round his shoulders. This gesture, as of departure, brings the Doctor to his feet.
Doctor. [Astonished and angry.] Do you really mean that you take the cheque and then tell us it was only magic?
Conjurer. [Pulling the cheque to pieces.] I tear the cheque, and I tell you it was only magic.
Doctor. [With violent sincerity.] But hang it all, there's no such thing.
Conjurer. Yes there is. I wish to God I did not know that there is.
Duke. [Rising also.] Why, really, magic....
Conjurer. [Contemptuously.] Yes, your Grace, one of those larger laws you were telling us about.
[He buttons his cloak up at his throat and takes up his bag. As he does so the Rev. Smith steps between him and the door and stops him for a moment.