From the pages of history a name stands out as one of the greatest mystics of all time, Rasputin! His mastery of the past, present, and future brought him fame and great wealth. Now you have the same pseudo power!

The Effect:

A deck of cards is shown as well mixed. Three subjects are required to help demonstrate your mastery of the past, present, and future. The first participant selects a card, notes it and returns it to the deck. "A card was chosen, but now is back from whence it came. It all took place in the past," you tell your audience.

You write a message on a slip of paper, fold it and write the word, PAST on it. The paper is set on a table and you continue. The second person selects a card and places it in his pocket without looking at it. Addressing the second person you say, "You have a chosen card and hidden it in your pocket. It remains in the present." You write something on a second slip, fold it and label it, PRESENT This paper is set next to the first.

"Before we proceed, I will look into the future to ascertain an event yet to take place." You write on a third slip, fold it a mark it, FUTURE. This joins the other slips on the table. The final spectator chooses a card a sets it aside near the slips.

The first participant is asked what card she chose before the trick began. She tells everyone, "The Five of Clubs." The paper marked, PAST is opened and read aloud, "Lisa has seen the Five of Clubs". The second person removes the card from his pocket and shows it around. It is the Nine of Spades. The paper marked, PRESENT is opened and read, "Will presently has the Nine of Spades in his pocket".

The remaining slip labeled, FUTURE is opened and read, "Melissa will choose the Four of Diamonds". The third person turns her chosen card face-up and it is, of course, the Four of Diamonds!