This is another of the new departures dependent upon the use of the
velvet mat. Broadly stated, the effect of the trick is as follows.
One of a group of six different cards laid out in a row or rows
repeatedly changes place with some other, the position which it occupies,
or to which it has moved, being indicated by the cast of an ordinary die.
This may be repeated any number of times.[5]
The requirements for the trick are as follows:
1. The Velvet Mat. This should be one with a plain surface, dimensions
preferably eighteen inches by ten, so as to admit of the six cards being
laid in one row. A smaller size, say twelve by nine, may suffice, the six
cards in this case being arranged in two rows. In either case there must
be a space of an inch or so between each pair.
2. Six cards of like denomination (say for the purpose of illustration
six queens of diamonds), each backed with black velvet and blackened
at the edges all around save at one end. Here the card is thickened by
the interposition of a slip of white cardboard between itself and the
velvet, so that the card as viewed from that end shall show a clearly
visible white edge. Each card has all four of its corners snipped off to
a microscopic extent, say a sixteenth, or less, of an inch.
3. An ordinary pack of cards one of which (in the case supposed, the
queen of diamonds) bears a mark upon its back recognisable by the
performer, but not conspicuous enough to be noticed by any one else.
4. An ordinary die and dice-box, or a champagne tumbler to be used in
place of the latter.
5. A tray or plate, about six inches in diameter, whereon to throw the
die.