Ladies in the audience always make available a powder case, or compact, which becomes a valuable accessory in this feat of fake clairvoyance. It is practical as an interlude during your performance, and is an excellent publicity stunt for impromptu work.

A compact having been secured, the owner is asked to write a single word on a business card, enclosing it in the case. The performer is given the case behind back and he faces the audience. Immediately he says that the second letter is exceptionally clear and is round, like a letter “e” or “o”. Then, after building up the effect with whatever showmanship the individual performer may have at his command, the complete word is revealed, and the card in case returned to spectators.

The powder case is not prepared. When I take the case in my hands which I hold behind my back, I face the audience and can immediately tell that the letter in second place is round because in most cases a second letter is a vowel. Behind my back I am opening carefully the case with my right hand, and the card is removed. It is best, too, that one should use his own card of a business type that he tears in half for spectator. Previously you have nail nicked this card so that you will know the writing side by feel. Or use engraved cards so the printed side can be felt.

The removed card is palmed in the hand, and now case is brought around your right side, the card and writing being seen by you underneath the case which is seen by audience at fingertips. Now, while revealing the word, the left hand grasps the case, and the right returns to the back naturally. The left hand now returns to the back with case, and as the card is put in and case closed, you fully reveal the correct word for your climax.