Another Amusing Trick.
"The vole and the king. I mark three; it is your turn to deal," presenting the pack to your adversary; and, at the same time, drawing out five or six cards which you keep hidden in your hand, according to the principles laid down in the third chapter, [figure 13].
The adversary shuffles the cards, and, that he shall not notice the diminution of the pack, you distract his attention by an animated conversation. Something in this style.
"Have you any knowledge of sleight of hand?"
"I don't think so."
"I am sorry for it, as I would have taught you a trick."
"Oh! that's of no consequence; show it to me all the same."
"With pleasure. But you must first practice a whole year to sauter la coupe," &c., &c. Your vis-à-vis then hands the cards to you to cut, and deals. Taking up your cards, you pass in underneath, those you had secreted, being careful to press them very forcibly one against the other.
"Ah! Well, what game did you say we were to play at?"
"At écarté; I thought you said at écarté."