Chapter I: The pass
In a nutshell, LePaul breaks down the importance of the pass and compels the reader to grow a pair and learn the classic two handed shift. Then, two new shifts are introduced; LePaul’s Invisible Turn Over Pass and “A Flourish and a Pass”.
LePaul’s invisible turn over pass might seem mechanically ordinary by today’s standard, but the actions surrounding the move (please study the pictures) avoids the commonly seen awkwardness of the right hand’s motion after shift.
“A Flourish and a Pass” is perhaps the most misused shift in existence. The original blocking for LePaul’s spread pass remains unsurpassed, especially when compared with the “please kill me” handlings one might find on youtube.
Chapter II: The Side-Steal
Tight and cosy methods, but if you are going to do a side-steal, Marlo is the man.
Chapter III: Palming
I will admit that it is a bit hard to approach this chapter, since LePaul pretends to have improved several methods from Erdnase’s treatrise. I would say that LePaul’s greatest quality as a technician is the misderection he includes within his sleights. However, Erdnase’s original palms stand perfectly on their own and I find that any additional efforts to conceal the moves can only add suspicion. With that said, you read my take on the palms below.
Right Hand Top Palm (Group Method)
Very practical, but too much finger action for my taste
Right Hand Top Palm (Single Card Method)
This method looks great in the action of turning the deck over.
Erdnase Bottom Palm (Improved)
This method is like Vernon’s double pump for the DPS; if you have smaller hands, go for it, if not run away.
A Bottom Card Steal
I often use this steal in lieu of a cop, it takes some chutzpahto do it for the first time, but it is more angle friendly than a cop.
The Diagonal Left Hand Palm (Improved Method)
Way too much going on for my taste, I really do not like this.
Left Hand Center Card Steal
Nice way to work from a peek, can be combined with other techniques for pleasing results.
Chapter IV: A Useful Aquitment
A small chapter with a wonderful subtelty for palming that can be turned into a sleight. This aquitment is some real work stuff.
