The calls for the Cheat Figure are:

This is repeated in turn by the second, third and fourth couples in succession, each balancing to the couple on the right.

At the beginning of this figure the first couple turn toward the right and take four steps forward, balance to the third couple, and retiring four steps. Simultaneously the third couple moves forward to the first couple, and retires. Then the two couples advance again, and each dancer turns opposite partner with both hands.

At the moment when the dancers are about to turn the opposite lady or gentleman it is allowable for either to suddenly withdraw and either dance alone or turn any other dancer in the set. This is how the dance derives its name.