Magic
Besides, it's the only trick I know.
Ira: Again.
Henry: No. That's the beauty of magic. If I did it again you would figure it out and then it wouldn't be magical anymore. It would just be a trick. Another mystery solved. Where's the fun in that? Besides, it's the only trick I know.
Ira: I don't care. I don't want fun. I want to know how you did that.
Henry: Well, I'm not going to tell you.
Ira: ...
Henry: It's all about making the other person think you're doing something you're not. Misdirection. Beguilement. And all of those other words I can't think of right now.
Ira: You really ought to read more. Improve your vocabulary. Anyways, go on.
Henry: That's it. I'm not telling you any more. You must first become apprentice to the master.
Ira: Master my ass. You know one trick.
Henry: But I know it perfectly! I could continue with this trick forever. It isn't about quantity, but quality, my friend. Quality is key.
Ira: Again.
Henry: OK. Choose a card. Keep it secret. When you've got one picked out, point to the column it's in...
Ira: I'm going to figure this out. You watch me.
Henry: Just let it happen. Be amazed. Why is that so hard?
Ira: Because I know you're not that talented.
Henry: Ouch. Point to the column it's in now.
Ira: It has something to do with this whole column thing. You're doing something with the cards.
Henry: Now you're thinking. Point to two groups of four.
Ira: I can't figure out this part though. This has me confused.
Henry: That's the idea. Point to one group of four.
Ira: I still don't get it.
Henry: And you never will. Point to two cards.
Ira: ...
Henry: Point to one card.
Ira: This is the bit I don't get at all. The cards are face-down. How do you know? I'm pointing. I'm in control here.
Henry: Is this your card?
Ira: Damn. How?
Henry: Magic.
Ira: Bullshit. Again.