In A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens, Sydney Carton uses three metaphorical “cards” to persuade John Barsad to help him:
- Barsad’s Identity as a Spy: Carton knows that Barsad, who is also Solomon Pross, is a spy, which makes Barsad vulnerable to being exposed.
- Barsad’s Association with Roger Cly: Carton is aware of Barsad’s connection to Roger Cly, who faked his death, adding another layer of deceit that could be revealed.
- Barsad’s Risk of Denunciation: In the tense and suspicious environment of revolutionary Paris, Carton points out that Barsad could easily be denounced and face severe consequences.
These “cards” give Carton the leverage he needs to coerce Barsad into cooperating with his plan to save Charles Darnay.