The Hand to Hand Palm Change

This sleight, which was first described by Prof. Hoffman in "Modern Magic," was devised by Prof. Hellis and it is still the best and simplest method of exchanging one packet of cards for another. It appears to have been lost sight of by modern card workers although some very fine feats are possible by its use. The sleight is not at all difficult and I strongly recommend the reader to use it.

In your left hand you hold palmed, face inward, a packet of cards, A, which is to be changed for another packet, B. With your left side to the front, you take packet B in the same hand, holding it face down by its sides between the thumb and second and third fingers.

As you bring the right hand over to take the packet B, you turn towards the right, palm it, and immediately seize packet A by its sides, carrying it away, slowly and openly. You hold the left hand open for a moment, palm to the front, allowing it to be seen empty, then drop it quietly to your side.
Just before you take away packet A, which was palmed in the left hand, curl your left forefinger up under it and press upwards against the middle of the cards, so taking the bend out of them which was caused by their position in your left hand.

With your right hand you dispose of the exchanged packet A by placing it on the table, handing it to a spectator, or otherwise, as may be necessary for the trick in band.

The packet now palmed in your right hand is disposed of by adding it to the pack, if this is lying on your table. You simply cover the pack with your hand and draw it back to the edge of the table, so picking it up. If, however, the pack is not available, you await a favorable moment for placing the packet in your pocket under cover of a natural movement, as, for instance, in taking out your handkerchief.