The Double Cutter

The performer gains knowledge of the first question by a simple trick known to all magicians--that of having a spectator "freely" select a playing card from a pack. This card is "forced," and is therefore known to the performer.

Blank cards and envelopes are passed around for writing the questions. The spectator who chose the card is to write, "What card did I select?" The envelopes are collected, and the one about the playing card is kept track of, so it will finally be on top of the pile in left hand as you start to give the readings.

On the table nearby is a pocket knife with the large blade fully opened. In reality, this knife has two large blades exactly the same size, and both opening or hinged at the same end. Both blades are open, but will appear as one and never be noticed.

The first question about the playing card is answered, the knife is used to slit open the flap to confirm it (in reality, one blade slits the playing card envelope and the other blade simultaneously slits the next envelope) The right fingers seemingly go into the first envelope, but actually go into No. 2, extracting the No. 2 question far enough so you can read it (mentally) and quickly replaces it. You are, of course, speaking about the playing card question and you remove the latter envelope with question inside and immediately toss it out to the writer.

This is repeated with the remaining questions. A couple of empty envelopes are on the bottom of pile to conceal the switch at the finish. If you can't find a knife with two blades as described, you may use a stiff hairpin, the two prongs being used in the same way as the two blades.