{"collection":"scripture-revelation","full_text_available":true,"graph_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/v2/api/page/gutenberg_6964/graph","html_url":"https://unchartedknowledge.5gfusion.net/v2/page/gutenberg_6964","id":"gutenberg_6964","license":"Public Domain (US)","rights_basis":"gutenberg_metadata_copyright_false","source":"gutenberg","source_url":"https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/6964","summary":null,"tags":["Category: How To ...","Category: Religion/Spirituality","Fortune-telling"],"text":"Produced by David Garcia, Tiffany Vergon, Juliet Sutherland,\nCharles Franks, and the Online Distributed Proofreading\nTeam.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTelling Fortunes By Tea Leaves\n\nHOW TO READ YOUR FATE IN A TEACUP\n\nBY CICELY KENT\n\n_With Twenty Illustrations_\n\n\n\n\nCONTENTS\n\n\n  CHAPTER\n\n       I. INTRODUCTION TO THE DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES\n\n      II. PRACTICE AND METHOD OF READING THE CUP\n\n     III. GENERAL THEORIES IN READING THE CUP\n\n      IV. DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES AS AN AMUSEMENT\n          AND AS A MORE SERIOUS STUDY\n\n       V. SOME HINTS FOR DIVINERS. REMARKABLE INSTANCES OF PROPHECY\n          BY THE TEA-LEAVES\n\n      VI. WRITING IN THE TEA-LEAVES. SOME FREQUENT SYMBOLS\n\n     VII. THE \"NELROS\" CUP. TWO EXAMPLE READINGS OF ITS SIGNS\n\n          A DICTIONARY OF SYMBOLS\n\n          SOME COMBINATIONS OF SYMBOLS AND THEIR MEANING\n\n          SOME EXAMPLE CUPS WITH THEIR INTERPRETATIONS\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTELLING FORTUNES BY\n\nTEA-LEAVES\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER I\n\nINTRODUCTION TO THE DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES\n\n\nAt no time in the history of the world has there been such earnest\nsearching for light and knowledge in all matters relating to Psychic\nPhenomena as in the present day. The desire to investigate some new\ndisclosure has resulted in yet other discoveries. Such will be handed on\nin their various forms to be studied and used by those who seek to\nlearn.\n\nFew subjects need more patience than those dealing with Psychology. Even\nthose who put their knowledge to a practical use in such studies as\ndivination by tea-leaves, must still plod patiently along a path thickly\nstrewn with new knowledge. The powers of clairvoyance, for instance,\ncannot be forced or hurried; such arbitrary laws as time have no meaning\nfor the subconscious self, therefore the need for hurry does not exist.\n\nI was once told by a very mediumistic woman that she had sat in the same\nroom at the same time for an hour every day for seven years, because she\n\"wished to develop Clairvoyance.\" Here was patience indeed! In some\nmanifestations of the clairvoyant powers within us, it is spontaneous,\nthe closing of the eyes to shut out all material surroundings being all\nthat is necessary to bring a vision of what is happening, or shortly to\nhappen, possibly hundreds of miles away.\n\nIn all dreams the clairvoyant powers are spontaneous; but for the\ndevelopment of clairvoyance at will, great perseverance is necessary.\nIts interests and powers are unlimited, so that it is well worth the\npatience and time spent upon it.\n\nIn the use of tea-leaves as a means of divination, the more developed\nthe \"clear sight,\" the more interesting and accurate will be the\ninterpretation. Practice is most necessary, especially for those who\nhave less natural clairvoyance than others.\n\nThe desire for knowledge on all Psychic matters has led to an increased\ndemand for various methods of bringing into symbols and pictures that\nhidden knowledge of the present and the future. That this knowledge can\nbe translated to us symbolically is apparent to everyone--who could\ndoubt it, and still believe in anything at all?\n\nTea-leaves are habitually used by many people as a means of divination.\nTo some it is an easier method than the cards, there is less to\nmemorise, or the crystal.\n\nThere is in Paris a famous clairvoyant who always uses tea-leaves as the\nmedium for her powers of divination. Some are inclined to jeer at the\nfortune in the teacup, but if the language of symbolism is rightly\nunderstood, the medium through which it is seen matters little.\n\nTea-leaves have the advantage of being simple, inexpensive, and within\nthe reach of everyone. It cannot be claimed that the cult is of the\ngreatest antiquity; for although it seems to have been used in China\nfrom very early times, tea was not brought into Europe until about the\nmiddle of the sixteenth century. For many years after its introduction\ninto this country, tea was far too costly to be used except by a\ncomparatively small proportion of the population. It has, however,\nproved its extreme usefulness as a means of divination, as well as its\nmerits as a beverage, for close upon three centuries.\n\nIt is a very favourite method with the Highlanders, where it is\ncustomary for the \"guid wife\" to read in her cup of tea at breakfast the\nevents she may look for during the day. Simple though they may probably\nbe, there are to be seen in the tea-leaves, a letter, a parcel, a\nvisitor, a wedding, and so on. It is said that no Highland seer would\ntake money for making prognostications as to the future. This, no doubt,\nis one good reason for their powers as clairvoyants.\n\nIt is a misfortune that clairvoyance should ever have to come into the\nmaterial necessities of money transactions, as it tends to mar the clear\nvision.\n\nIt is said by some that tea-leaves can foretell the events for\ntwenty-four hours only. As clairvoyance has no restrictions as to time\nor space, I cannot see how it can be thus laid down as a fact that it is\nlimited to man-made laws of time! Certainly there is much evidence of\nthe \"tea leaves\" being capable of foreseeing events of an important\nnature at a considerable distance ahead.\n\nOne of the most difficult points in interpreting visions of clairvoyance\nis the time element; simply because time, as we know it, does not exist.\nThe intuitive faculty is needed for any accurate definition of time, so\nimportant to us in our present conditions, so absolutely unimportant to\nthe subconscious self. Let us decide at once, then, that divination by\ntea-leaves may, and often does, extend to a further vision than that of\nthe twenty-four hours. Much depends upon the methods used.\n\nOur individual past, quite apart from the arbitrary laws of heredity,\nmakes the road of our future. Possibly this may account for the curious\nfact that in dreams the setting is often in childhood's surroundings,\nwhile the dream itself is obviously of the present or the future. This\nshows how the first beginnings of the event which is to come were\nbrought about. It is somewhat like unwinding a cotton reel!\n\nThere are, no doubt, some who look upon the tea-leaves merely as a form\nof amusement, and who entertain their friends in that way. Well, it is a\nharmless amusement, and is often useful at a very dull tea party! But\nfor those who take it seriously, and regard it as one of the many means\nof divination, it will be treated with the respect due to such matters.\n\nAs in other forms of divination, so with the reading of the tea-cup, a\ngreat deal depends on the seer. Those who are naturally clairvoyant will\nread many events and scenes in the cup which would be passed over by\nothers not so gifted. Even without this \"clear sight,\" however, the\ntea-leaves may be read by anyone who has learned the principles and the\nsymbolic meanings given in this book. With a certain amount of intuition\nand imagination, the tea-cups may be most successfully used to reveal\nthe future.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER II\n\nPRACTICE AND METHOD\n\n\nA wide, shallow cup is the best kind to use for tea-leaf\ndivination--white if possible. A narrow cup adds to the seer's\ndifficulties, as the tea-leaves cannot be plainly seen. Small cups, too,\nare objectionable for the same reason, and a fluted cup is even worse. A\nplain, even surface is required, with no pattern of any kind, as this\nhas a tendency to confuse the symbols. Indian tea and the cheaper\nmixtures, which contain so much dust and twigs are of no use for reading\na fortune, as they cannot form into pictures and symbols that can easily\nbe distinguished.\n\nThose who desire to have their tea-leaves interpreted should leave about\na teaspoonful of tea at the bottom of the cup. It should then be taken\nin the left hand, and turned three times from left with a quick swing.\nThen very gently, slowly, and with care, turn it upside down over the\nsaucer, leaving it there for a minute, so that all the moisture may\ndrain away.\n\nSome divinators of the tea-leaves insist on a concentration of the mind\nduring this turning of the cup, as do many cartomantes whilst the cards\nare being shuffled; others prefer the mind to be as far as possible free\nfrom any definite thought or desire, simply allowing it to dwell on such\nabstract subjects as flowers or the weather. Personally, I advocate this\nfor both systems of divination; it enables the subconscious mind to\nassert itself unhindered, whilst the normal mind is in abeyance.\n\nThe turning of the cup before inverting it over the saucer is equivalent\nto the shuffling of the cards. It is as a direct result of those few\nseconds turning that the pictures and signs are created, the\nsubconscious mind directing the hand holding the cup. The following\nsimple ritual is all that is necessary to those consulting the\ntea-leaves.\n\nThe cup to be read is held by the seer and turned about as necessary, so\nthat the symbols may be read without disturbing them. This is important,\nbut no disturbance will take place if the moisture has been properly\ndrained away. The handle of the cup represents the consultant, also the\nhome, or, if the consultant be away from home the present abode.\n\nIt is necessary to have a starting point in the cup for the purpose of\nindicating events approaching near to, or far distant from, the person\nconsulting. The leaves near the rim denote such things as may be\nexpected to occur quickly; those directly beneath the handle indicate\npresent and immediate happenings; those on the sides of the cup suggest\nmore distant events; whilst those at the bottom deal with the far\ndistant future.\n\nThis method of fixing the time, coupled with intuition, renders it\npossible to give a consultant some idea as to when an event may be\nexpected; but if there be no intuitive sense of time, it will be found\nwiser not to be too positive.\n\nThe turning of the cup and the draining of the moisture having been\ncarried out as directed, the tea-leaves will be found distributed at the\nsides and bottom of the cup.\n\nFor those who wish to use the saucer as a further means of divination,\nthe following suggestions will be useful.\n\nThere must be a definite point to represent the consultant, and for this\nreason the saucer is usually rejected. There is also the objection that\nit is more difficult to manipulate in the turning. Nevertheless, it is\nfound to give excellent results, and, if the cup is bare of events, it\nis useful to be able to find information in the saucer.\n\nFirst of all, then, to determine the position of the consultant. Take\nthe centre of the saucer for this purpose. The circle round it\nrepresents the home, or if the consultant is away from home, the present\nabode, and also events near at hand. The more distant circle indicates\nthose things which are not to be expected for some time. The outer\ncircle and rim suggest events as yet in the misty future.\n\nWhen the saucer is used as an additional means of seeking knowledge of\ncoming events, after the symbols in the cup have been exhausted, it will\noften be found that this secondary divination confirms or enlarges upon\nthat which has already been foretold in the cup.\n\nThe moisture and leaves drained from the cup, having remained in the\nsaucer, should be turned by the consultant three times with the same\nswirling motion as for the cup, and the moisture carefully poured away.\nThe saucer should be held inverted for a few seconds, otherwise when it\nis placed upright, the remaining moisture will disturb the tea-leaves.\nThe symbols are read in exactly the same way as in the cup, the only\ndifference being the positions representing the consultant, the home,\nand the indications of time. These have already been explained.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER III\n\nGENERAL THEORIES IN READING THE CUP\n\n\nAt first sight the interior of the cup will show the leaves scattered\nabout apparently haphazard and with no arrangement; just a jumble of\ntea-leaves and nothing more. In reality they have come to their\npositions and have taken on the shapes of the symbols for which they\nstand, by the guidance of the subconscious mind directing the hand in\nthe turning of the cup.\n\nThe various shapes and the meanings to be attached to them will at first\nbe puzzling to beginners. A good deal of practice is necessary before\nthe tea-leaf symbols can be accurately interpreted at a glance. That,\nhowever, will come later, and in time it will be as easy as reading a\nbook.\n\nIf you wish to be a proficient reader of the tea-leaves, practise\nconstantly this interpretation of the shapes and positions of the\nleaves. Take a cup and follow out the simple instructions for the\nturning and draining of it, and then carefully study the result.\n\nIt is an excellent plan to make a rough copy of the leaves as they\npresent themselves to you in each cup, making notes of the various\nmeanings.\n\nDo not feel dismayed if, when you begin looking at the tea-leaves, you\nare unable to discover in them anything definitely symbolic. It is\ncertain that nothing will be found if the seer is feeling nervous! Keep\na calm, open mind, and do not be in a hurry, for it is under such\nconditions only that a clear reading of the leaves will be possible. In\nsome cases the symbols are more easily read than in others. Much depends\nupon the consultant.\n\nThe gift of imagination (by no means to be confused with invention) is\nof the greatest possible importance in discerning the symbols which are\nof such endless shapes and variety. The seer has to find in the forms of\nthe tea-leaves a resemblance, sometimes it may be but a faint one, to\nnatural objects, _e.g._, trees, houses, flowers, bridges, and so\nforth. Figures of human beings and animals will frequently be seen, as\nwill squares, triangles, circles, and also the line of fate.\n\nThese signs may be large or small, and the importance of them must be\njudged by their relative size and position. Suppose, for instance, that\na small cross should be at the bottom of the cup, the only one to be\nseen, the seer would predict that a trifling vexation or a tiresome\nlittle delay must be expected; but not for the present, as it is at the\nbottom of the cup. An alphabetical list of symbols is given later on, so\nit is not necessary to define them here. The various points of a more\ngeneral character, however, must be studied before it is possible to\ngive an accurate reading.\n\nIt will constantly be found that the stems, isolated leaves, or small\ngroups of leaves, form a letter of the alphabet, sometimes a number.\nThese letters and numbers have meanings which must be looked for in\nconnection with other noticeable signs. If an initial \"M\" appears, and\nnear to it a small square or oblong leaf, both being near the rim of the\ncup, it would indicate a letter coming speedily from someone whose name\nbegins with an \"M.\" If the initial appears near the bottom of the cup it\nshows that the letter will not be coming for some time.\n\nIf there be a clear space at the bottom of the cup devoid of tea-leaves,\nit shows water, and that, in all probability, the letter is coming from\nabroad. If the symbol of the letter comes very near to a bird flying, it\nshows a telegram. If the bird is flying towards the consultant (the\nhandle), the telegram has been received. The news in it is to be judged\nby other signs in the cup. If flying away from the handle, the telegram\nis sent by the consultant. A single bird flying always indicates speedy\nnews.\n\nIn a cup with various ominous signs, such as a serpent, an owl, or many\ncrosses, the news coming is not likely to be pleasant. In a cup without\nbad signs, it can safely be said that the news is good.\n\nAs a general rule large letters indicate places, whilst smaller ones\ngive the names of persons. Thus a large letter \"E\" would stand for\nEdinburgh and a smaller \"E\" for Edwards, for instance. To all rules\nthere comes the occasional exception, and this principle holds good with\nregard to the letters in the tea-cup. It is said that these smaller\nletters always point to the first letter of the surname. Usually it is\nso; but I have constantly found from experience that it is the first\nletter of the Christian name, or even a pet name, to which the letter\nrefers. It is well to keep this possibility in mind, otherwise the seer\nmay give misleading information to consultants.\n\nSometimes numbers mean the date for an event to be expected, a \"5\" for\ninstance, very near the brim of the cup, or the handle (the consultant),\nmeans in five days; or five weeks if it come on the side, possibly as\nfar off as five months if the figure be at the bottom of the cup.\n\nAs dots around a symbol always indicate money in some form or another,\naccording to the character of the symbol, a figure beside the dots would\nsignify the amount of money to be expected. If the symbol were that of a\nlegacy with the figure \"90\" near, it would show that a little legacy of\nninety pounds might be anticipated.\n\nClearly defined symbols that stand out separately are of more importance\nthan such as are difficult to discern. Clusters of shapeless leaves\nrepresent clouds marring the effect of an otherwise fortunate cup.\n\nJourneys are shown by lines or dots formed by the dust and smaller\nleaves of the tea. The length and direction of the journey may be known\nby the extent of the line and, roughly speaking, the point of the\ncompass to which it leads, the handle in this case representing south.\nIf the line of dots ascends sharply to the brim of the cup, a journey to\na hilly country will be taken.\n\nSupposing the consultant to be at home, and the dots form a line from\nthe handle all round the cup and back to the handle, it signifies a\njourney for a visit and the return. If the line were to stop before\nreaching the handle again, with an appearance of a house where the line\nends, a change of residence might safely be predicted. A wavy line shows\nindecision as to arrangements. Crosses upon the line indicate that there\nwill be vexation or delay in connection with the journey. Large flat\nleaves some distance apart along the line stand for important stations\nto be passed through.\n\nFor some consultants there seems very little of interest to be read in\ntheir cup. There are no events, merely trivialities. It is therefore\ndifficult to find anything that could be considered as \"future,\" when it\nseems to be just a dead level \"present,\" the daily life, nothing more.\nIt is sad for those who have such a dull life, but there is usually some\nsign, a small happening such as a parcel, or a visit from a friend.\nThese must be made the most of. The pleasure of anticipation will add to\nthe realisation.\n\nA confused looking tea-cup, without any definite symbols, just a muddle\nof tea-leaves, is useless for the purpose of divination, beyond giving\nan indication of the state of the consultant's mind, so vague and\nundecided in its character that it obscures everything. Tell such a one\nthe reason for the failure of divining, and recommend a more reliable\nstate of mind. Then let them try their \"fortune\" again in a few months,\nwhen it may be found quite different.\n\nIt is of course a great mistake to be always \"looking in the\ntea-leaves,\" as some foolish people do twice a day. It is sure to lead\nto contradictions though there is no harm in the habit of \"looking in\nthe cup\" each morning as others do, for finding the events likely to\nhappen in the course of the day. This is as permissible as the reading\nof the cards each morning for the day's events by those who consider it\na safeguard, remembering that to be forewarned is to be forearmed.\n\nSome people use the tea-cup simply for the purpose of asking a definite\nquestion, such as, \"Is the sum of money I am expecting coming soon?\"\nWhen this is the case, the consultant should be told before turning the\ncup in the hand to concentrate the thoughts on this one point, as in the\ncase of wishing while shuffling the cards for a definite wish. Then the\nseer must look only for the signs that will give the answer to the\nquestion, ignoring all other points. This is necessary for the giving of\na satisfactory answer to the question asked.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER IV\n\nDIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES AS AN AMUSEMENT AND AS A MORE SERIOUS STUDY\n\n\nThe need for patience cannot be too strongly impressed upon those who\nare beginning to learn the language of tea-leaves. Some of the most\ninteresting symbols are very minute, and will certainly be missed by the\nseer who is in a hurry.\n\nWhen tea-leaf reading is indulged in merely as an amusement to while\naway a few moments after a meal, a hasty glance at the cup, or cup and\nsaucer, will suffice. The seer will just note the chief features, such\nas a journey, a letter, a parcel, or news of a wedding, and pass on to\nthe next cup. But this is far from being a really interesting method of\ndivination by tea-leaves, wherein so much knowledge is to be found, and\nso much useful information gained.\n\nThose who closely study this fascinating subject will certainly be well\nrewarded by a deep personal interest, in addition to the pleasure they\ngive to others.\n\nIt is wonderful how rapidly converts are made to this form of\ndivination. Some who in the past have been heard scornfully to assert\nthat they \"have no belief in tea-leaves,\" become the most regular\ninquirers. Moreover, these sceptics have proved to be very efficient\nstudents.\n\nThere is always a satisfaction in persuading another to one's own point\nof view. The more obstinate the opposition, the more glorious the final\nconquest!\n\nIt is a rare occurrence nowadays to meet with three people in the course\nof a day, and not to find that one at least is deeply interested in\nfortune-telling in some of its various forms.\n\nQuite recently I had a letter from a girl who has gone on a visit to\nBritish Columbia, asking me if I would \"do the cards\" for her, as she\ncould not find anyone in her vicinity who was particularly good at\ndivination. She went on to say that \"there is a perfect rage for\nfortune-telling out here, and everyone is keen on it.\" Another instance\nof this universal popularity was given to me by a friend who had\nrecently been to America. She was amazed at the numbers of women whom\nshe saw absorbed in the reading of their tea-cups each day of the\nvoyage.\n\nThe male sex holds aloof and leaves us to \"perform these follies.\" Some\nascribe it to man's superiority. Or as briefly summed up by a delightful\nmember of their sex, who when declaiming against the possibility of the\nfuture being made visible, said, \"With all apologies to you, I must say\nI am not so profoundly stupid as to believe in these things; it cannot\nbe anything more than rot.\"\n\nIt is remarkable how such protests die away when clairvoyant evidence,\neither by cards, tea-leaves, or other means, has accurately predicted\nsome event of the distant future that at the time appeared absurd and\nimpossible of happening.\n\nWoman may lawfully claim superiority with regard to her intuitive\nfaculty, and thus she is well equipped for exercising her divinatory\npowers.\n\nWho need be dull or bored when the language of symbolism remains to be\nlearned? Perhaps I should say, studied; for completely learned it can\nnever be, seeing that fresh events are constantly occurring in the\nworld, and new symbols appear representing each.\n\nThere are few things more fascinating than personal discovery, and those\nwho become students of divination by tea-leaves, or cards, may safely be\npromised a taste of this pleasing sensation of achievement. It is\nlimited to the few to discover the marvels of radium, or the discomforts\nof the South Pole, but a fragment of their glory is shared by those who\nfind new evidence of the far-reaching knowledge of symbolism.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER V\n\nSOME HINTS FOR DIVINERS\n\nREMARKABLE INSTANCES OF PROPHECY BY THE TEA-LEAVES\n\n  \"For a man's mind is sometimes wont to tell him more\n  than seven watchmen that sit above in a high tower.\"\n\n\nTo those of an inquiring or doubting turn of mind, there may arise the\nvery natural question as to _why_ one shaped tea-leaf should mean\n\"a hat\" and another \"a table.\" It is useless to point out that these\nobjects are perfectly represented by the leaves. That is of no practical\nsatisfaction. The simple fact that each language has its alphabet, its\nspelling, and its words, which must be learned before there can be any\nreasonable understanding of it, seems the best and obvious reply.\n\nSymbolism is a wide subject with many branches. Who can expect to master\neven its alphabet in a moment? To those who cannot accept the symbols in\nthe tea-leaves on the authority of past experience, reaching over\nseveral centuries, I would recommend a careful study of their cups for,\nsay, three months. Let them make notes of such signs as appear and\nbeside them place their meanings and predictions.\n\nAt the end of this time, compare all that has taken place with these\nnotes, and I think there will be no further lack of faith in the\ntea-leaf symbols.\n\nBefore very many years have passed the language of symbolism by cards,\ntea-leaves, crystal gazing, etc., will probably be almost universally\nunderstood. The day will undoubtedly come when it will be accepted as\nnaturally as the English language, and we shall cease to worry ourselves\nas to the why and wherefore of it all.\n\nIt is important that those who are learning the art of divination by\ntea-leaves should realise the necessity for consistently attributing the\nsame meanings to the symbols. Do not be tempted to change their\ninterpretation for what may seem a more probable, or pleasant,\nprediction for your client. It is a fatal mistake.\n\nRemember that you are dealing with conditions and events of the future\nwhich are outside the limited knowledge of the normal mind, whose power\nof vision is limited to physical sight.\n\nA simple instance of what may occur, should you thus change the meanings\nof the symbols, will suffice to show the folly of such a practice.\n\nA consultant comes to have her \"fortune read.\" She is known to you\npersonally, and you are aware that she is anxious to hear a hopeful\nreport of someone dear to her who is ill. The tea-leaf symbols are\nobstinately unfavourable, and display ominous signs of forthcoming\nsorrow. If you gloss over this fact completely, and predict a rapid\nrecovery from the illness, what becomes of your client's faith in the\npower of foretelling the future? Certain it is that the symbols would be\nright in their verdict, and you would be wrong.\n\nIt is usually easier to prophesy smooth things rather than unpleasant\nfacts, but to do this in the face of obvious contradictions will lead to\ndisaster in foretelling the future.\n\nDivination by tea-leaves or cards has the candour to be frankly\ndisagreeable when necessary. This is one great argument in favour of its\nunerring truthfulness. There is no means by which symbols may be coaxed\ninto proclaiming false statements.\n\nThe most practised clairvoyant may occasionally make mistakes in her\nreading of the symbols, but no genuine seer should ever deliberately\ngive a wrong interpretation of them to please her consultant. The\nbusiness of the diviner is to give what she believes to be a correct and\nunprejudiced translation of the symbols before her.\n\nIt is sometimes a vexed question as to what extent information of a\ngloomy nature, which may appear in a divination, should be given to a\nclient. Some are in favour of withholding such matter altogether, whilst\nothers announce it frankly without modification. It seems impossible to\nlay down any hard and fast rule. There are so many things to be taken\ninto account, and each case should be treated on its merits and\naccording to its peculiar circumstances. There are some who would fret\nthemselves ill at the least mention of coming misfortune, others would\nbe the better prepared to meet it by having been warned of its approach.\n\nOne rule can be safely made for guidance on this point. Do not minimise\ndanger when a timely warning may avert an accident, or other misfortune,\nnor should symbols of ill omen be exaggerated. As students become\nproficient, they will find many meanings in the tea-leaves in addition\nto those which they learn from this book. Much will depend upon\ncircumstances and individual temperaments.\n\nThese personally discovered meanings should be carefully noted and\nverified with events as they occur.\n\nIt is necessary to remember that divination by the tea-cup is by no\nmeans limited to personal information. Forthcoming public events are\nfrequently revealed. This adds largely to the interest and usefulness of\nthe divination. It is important to point out this to consultants, so\nthat they may not be too ready to fix the whole reading of their cups to\npurely personal matters. It will be found that public news is usually\nforetold in the cups of those who seek information of the future as a\nregular practice.\n\nFor those who rarely do so, private affairs alone will appear, probably\nwithout even a forecast of the weather to be expected within the next\nfew days.\n\nIt is a curious fact that the wider knowledge should seem to be reserved\nfor those who practise divination constantly, but so it is.\n\nSome remarkable instances of the accurate foretelling of public events,\nwhich have quite recently been brought to my notice, may be interesting.\n\nFor some weeks before the coal strike of 1920 was declared, a pickaxe\nwas seen on several occasions in the cups of two persons, both of whom\nread their tea-leaves regularly. This symbol, as will be seen in the\ndictionary which follows, stands for \"labour trouble and strikes.\" A\nspade was also in evidence at intervals, a further sign of \"trouble and\nunrest.\" So that it was through no fault of the tea-leaves if some of us\nwere not in the superior position of knowing all about the strike before\nit came to pass.\n\nThe symbols already mentioned would of course apply equally to railway\ndisturbance, and some time before the threat of a strike was announced,\nthese symbols appeared again, together with an engine, and a signal at\nthe angle of \"Danger.\" This seemed ominous. But within a few days the\nsignal was evident once more; but on this occasion set at \"All Clear.\"\nSo it was easy to decide that the threatened strike would not take\nplace. The accuracy of this prediction by means of the tea-leaves was\nshortly afterwards made evident.\n\nAgain, a week before there seemed to be even a hope of a settlement of\nthe coal strike, a mining shaft presented itself in one of the tea-cups\nwhich had previously been indicating the strike. This symbol appeared at\nthe top of the cup standing out clearly by itself, evidently predicting\nthe miners' return to work within a short time. There was no need to\ndepend upon information from the newspapers as to the end of the strike,\nfor here in the tea-leaves was all necessary evidence of the fact.\n\nAnother very remarkable instance of symbolism was given to me by a\nfriend a short time ago. On Monday morning, October 26th, 1920, the\nthree following symbols appeared in her cup:--\n\n  A vulture resting on a rock.\n  An eagle.\n  A monkey.\n\n\nIn the evening of that day the death of King Alexander of Greece was\nannounced.\n\nIt will be seen, on referring to the dictionary, that an eagle and a\nvulture signify \"the death of a monarch.\" The monkey who lay at the\nbottom of the cup, apparently dead, was of course the third symbol as\nhaving caused the King's death. It was particularly gratifying that\nthese signs should have appeared in my friend's cup for she is a\nmathematical genius, and rejects every symbol which she cannot recognise\nat once. She was so struck by these signs that she called them to the\nattention of her mother, who also immediately perceived and identified\nthem. The only regrettable omission was that the cup was not\nphotographed. It would have been valuable evidence for the wonders of\nthe tea-leaves.\n\nThis same friend had another interesting experience. The head of an\nIndian appeared in her cup, with other signs pointing to news of a\npersonal nature. She was puzzled, for, as far as she knew, there was no\none in India from whom she would be in the least likely to hear.\n\nVery shortly afterwards, however, her mother went on a visit to London.\nThere she quite unexpectedly met someone who had recently come from\nIndia, and who had brought back messages of remembrance and affection\nfrom a girl who my friend had no idea was in India at that time. Hence\nthe Indian in her tea-cup!\n\nWhilst on this subject, I am reminded of another occasion when India was\nrepresented in the tea-leaves. I was looking into my tea-cup one day,\nwhen I saw most clearly depicted two natives creeping stealthily, their\nattitude making this evident. In their hands were what appeared to be\nknives, and they were making towards a figure that was unmistakably that\nof an officer. He was standing upon what looked like a raised platform\nwith a barricade round him. He held a revolver in his hand.\n\nI am quite aware that some may think this a tall tale for the tea-leaves\nto relate! But fortunately my reading of the cup was witnessed by two\nothers, one of them being a man, who, although interested in psychic\nsubjects, despises the tea-leaves! Without remarking upon what I saw, I\nsuggested that he should look at my cup and see what he made of it.\nWithout a moment's hesitation he said, \"There is an officer defending\nhimself against some natives who are about to attack him.\"\n\nMy readers will appreciate the satisfaction this testimony gave me,\ncoming as it did from one who had never before looked into a cup.\nMoreover, that this witness should have been one of the male sex added\nto its value! This prediction of danger for someone in India was borne\nout by facts that were disclosed shortly afterwards. These instances\nwhich I have given illustrate the variety and interest which are to be\nfound in divination by tea-leaves.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER VI\n\nWRITING IN THE TEA-LEAVES\n\nSOME FREQUENT SYMBOLS\n\n\nAnother source through which messages are received by the tea-leaves\nwill be found in the writing which will be seen from time to time.\nMoreover, it has the great advantage of being clear and easy to\ndecipher, so that there may be no doubt of what is intended to be\nunderstood by it. The tea-leaves can never be accused of being\nillegible. Occasionally it is very minute writing, and would probably be\npassed over by those who read their cups in a superficial manner. To\nthose who study them carefully the future is revealed.\n\nNo one would reasonably expect to find a speech from the Prime Minister\nor an invitation to a tea-party written for them in the tea-leaves. But\nwords they certainly will find.\n\nA short time ago I saw in my cup, in perfect copperplate writing, the\nword \"wait.\" I was annoyed by it, for what is more annoying than having\nto wait? Sometimes it may happen that the tea-leaves--as with their\nrelatives, the tumbler and automatic writing--become a little shaky in\ntheir spelling. But this is not a serious defect, and the trifling\nerrors do not prevent the word from being translatable. It is a\nrecognised fact that writing seen through a medium, whether it be\ntea-leaves, or a dream, is of importance, and should always be regarded\nwith attention and with an endeavour to understand its message.\n\nI should like to point out that certain figures and symbols are of so\nfrequent occurrence that it may be well to emphasise their general\nsignificance by referring to them here, in addition to their meaning\nbeing given in the dictionary.\n\nAmong those which threaten misfortune, or sorrow, are the following:\nCrosses, snakes, spades, pistols, guns, toads, cats.\n\nJoy and success are indicated by such symbols as a crescent moon, clover\nleaves, flowers, trees, anchors, fruit, circles, stars.\n\nHaving learned the symbols and the combined symbols by heart, it will\nrequire only a little practice to interpret their meanings without\nhesitation. For those who find difficulty in committing the dictionary\nto memory, an essential for proficient reading of the cup, I would\nsuggest that they write down any meaning which may seem specially hard\nto remember, roughly drawing its symbol beside it. In this way the\ndifficulty will soon be overcome.\n\n\n\n\nCHAPTER VII\n\nTHE \"NELROS\" CUP\n\nTWO EXAMPLE READINGS OF ITS SIGNS\n\n  \"If thou wouldst learn thy future with thy tea,\n   This magic cup will show it thee.\"\n\n\nSome readers may find an additional interest in divination by\ntea-leaves, if they use a cup marked with the planetary symbols,\npatented as the \"Nelros Cup of Fortune.\" A short explanation of the\nsymbols, and the method of using this cup, will be helpful for those who\nare not familiar with its signs. I am not suggesting the use of the\n\"Nelros\" saucer, for the reason that its signs are somewhat obscure, and\nstudents who have no experience in the science of astrology would find\nit confusing, if used in addition to the cup, in which all needful signs\nare illustrated.\n\nAs in the case of the ordinary tea-cup, the handle remains as the\nrepresentative of the consultant. The turning of it and draining of the\nmoisture should be carried out in the usual way.\n\nImmediately under the handle, and above the space given to the Sun, are\nseen a Diamond and a Horseshoe. Next on the left are a Snake twisted\nround a stick, and a Spade, these being placed over the space given to\nSaturn.\n\nFollowing them are a Bell and a Club, seen over the sign of Venus. Next,\nan Eye and Envelope, above the space given to Jupiter.\n\nThen comes a Cross, with the sign of Pisces, the Fishes, these being\nover the sign of Mercury.\n\nNext are a Winecup and a Spider above the space of Mars.\n\nFollowed by a Cat's Head and a Heart, above the Moon.\n\nEach one of these signs round the brim has a symbolic meaning, though\ntheir meaning must also be judged by the position they occupy in the\ncup.\n\nNow, taking the signs round the brim of the cup, and connecting them\nwith the planetary symbols beneath.\n\nBeginning at the handle is a Diamond, this being a token of wealth,\nwhich, with the sign of the Sun below, indicates much prosperity,\nfavours, and general well-being, the Horseshoe over the Sun also\nbetokening good luck and successful projects.\n\nIn the next space, reading to the left, is the Snake twisted round a\nstick, over the sign of Saturn. This is emblematical of a risk of\npoverty coming through deceit, and with a Spade over Saturn, whose\ncharacteristic is privation, there is a further indication of toil,\nloss, undoing.\n\nThe next sign is a happier one; the Bell over the sign of Venus, with\nthe Club beyond, indicates joyful news, events meaning much happiness,\nlove and peace, the characteristic of Venus being peace or placidity.\n\nNext is the sign of Jupiter, whose characteristic is expansion; above it\nare placed an Eye and an Envelope, the Eye showing the power of\npenetration, seeing things in a right perspective, and light thrown on\ndifficult questions, the letter showing that news from all parts of the\nworld is made possible by its expansion.\n\nNext come the Latin Cross and the watery sign Pisces, the Fishes. These\nbeing in connection with Mercury, whose characteristic is activity, show\nmuch alertness and desire for knowledge; the Cross meaning obstacles and\nhindrances in the chosen path, whilst the sign of Pisces denotes\ninteresting news from distant lands, with much desire for travel and\nexploration.\n\nIn the next space the Winecup and Spider, in connection with the sign of\nMars, the characteristic of Mars being energy, show the strength,\ncourage, and perseverance needed to carry out a successful career; the\nSpider being a symbol of concentration, patience, and achievement,\nwhilst the Wine-cup tells of joy and realised ambition.\n\nFollowing these signs are the Cat's Head and the Heart, with the\nCrescent Moon below. The characteristic of the Moon is change, mobility;\nit is also a symbol of good fortune in the tea-leaves. In combination\nwith the Heart it indicates a romantic love affair. The Cat's Head shows\ninterference by those who are mean and spiteful.\n\nHaving learned from this brief explanation the symbols of the \"Nelros\nCup,\" the reading of the tea-leaves in relation to those symbols will be\neasy. For instance, suppose the wife of a sailor to be the consultant.\nHer husband is on his ship in the North Sea, and she is eagerly awaiting\nnews of him. In the cup she has \"turned,\" the symbol of a letter comes\nin the watery sign [Symbol: )-(] with a large ivy leaf beneath it.\nFurther patience will be necessary, the ivy leaf tells us, as the\nwished-for letter is still far away. The distance from the handle (the\nconsultant) shows this, also the letter symbol being in the watery sign\nindicates the fact that it will come from across the sea. The waiting\nfor the news causes a feeling of disappointment and sadness; these will\nvanish later on, and the waiting be compensated by the happy news that\nwill come in the longed-for letter. This is seen by the tea-leaves which\nappear on other symbols of the cup.\n\nThe form of a man is seen between the signs of the Bell and Club; near\nthis form is the letter \"A,\" the first letter of the consultant's name.\nRound this initial letter is a well-formed circle; a trident lies at a\nlittle distance from it.\n\nHere is evidence of the joyful news coming from her husband, the\ntea-leaves in the spaces of the Bell and Club making a prediction of the\nsatisfactory news a safe one. The circle round the letter \"A\" and the\nsymbol of the trident near, enable the seer to prophesy a good\npromotion, much success and happiness.\n\nThis example reading of the \"Nelros\" cup is a fortunate one. We will now\nconsider one of a less satisfactory character.\n\nThe consultant is a widow; opposite the handle of the cup she has\n\"turned\" is the Envelope over Jupiter, upon the Envelope tea-leaves\nforming an Owl are seen, beneath is a small arrow pointing towards the\nhandle. These signs foretell bad news probably coming from a far\ncountry; the sign of Jupiter and distance from the handle (the\nconsultant) would show this. The symbol of the Owl indicates the anxiety\ncaused by the arrival of the letter and its news. The arrow pointing\ntowards the handle would show that the matter is personal, and will much\naffect the consultant.\n\nUpon the sign of Saturn, with an arm stretched towards the Spade above\nit, is the figure of a man. The characteristic of Saturn being\nprivation, and the Spade being a symbol of toil, it is evident that the\nfigure of the man represents someone related to the consultant for whom\nthe present prospects are very bad. It may well be this man from whom is\ncoming the news in the letter which will cause her so much anxiety.\n\nFortunately, on the Anchor at the bottom of the cup is a well-formed\nkey. Being in this position, it shows that someone at a distance, having\nthe welfare of the consultant much in their mind, will be the means in\nthe future of helping her out of the difficulties. The key being on the\nAnchor indicates the security she may feel in the friends, who will be\ninstrumental in giving her happiness and peace of mind.\n\nThese two example divinations will illustrate the manner in which the\ntea-leaves are read in relation to the signs upon the cup. To some it\nmay appear an easier means than that of the ordinary tea-cup.\n\nIn any case it is very useful to have an alternative method of\nforetelling the future. Variety is always acceptable, and for this\nreason I commend the \"Nelros Cup of Fortune\" to my readers.\n\n\n\n\n\nA DICTIONARY OF SYMBOLS\n\n\nA\n\nABBEY.--A sign of increasing wealth and comfort; you will gain much\nsuccess in your life.\n\nACE OF CLUBS.--This signifies good news through the post.\n\nACE OF DIAMONDS.--You will be gratified by a good present or sum of\nmoney.\n\nACE OF HEARTS.--Shows affection and happiness in the home.\n\nACE OF SPADES.--A large town or building.\n\nACORN.--This is a symbol of health, strength and gain through industry,\na sowing of which you will see the reaping, a short journey from which\nthere may be great results; good fortune and ease are predicted by\nseveral acorns.\n\nAIRCRAFT.--If flying towards consultant, hasty news or an unexpected\njourney; if stationary it gives warning that you will have but little\nsuccess in your life unless you come out of the rut into which you have\nfallen.\n\nALBATROSS.--If seen with the sign of a ship or water it portends\ndistress for those at sea; to sailors or to those associated with them\nit is an omen of sadness, meaning sorrow and sometimes death.\n\nALDERMAN.--To workers this is a sign that if they proceed with caution\nthey will become prosperous.\n\nALLIGATOR.--This is a bad sign of personal danger and distress possibly\ncaused by those nearest to you; it also shows much mental disturbance\nand worry; if very near consultant a catastrophe is imminent.\n\nALMONDS.--These denote festivities and social enjoyment, good and\ngenerous friends.\n\nALTAR.--If with a figure near, sorrow and distress are foreshown.\n\nANCHOR.--A pleasing symbol of good and loyal friends, constancy in love,\nand the realisation of your wishes; an emblem of safety to a sailor.\n\nANEMONE.--These flowers often indicate an event to be expected in the\nearly autumn; the nature of it must be judged by other signs in the cup.\n\nANGEL.--This is a symbol of good fortune in love, radiance, happiness,\nand peace.\n\nANGEL (FLYING).--A token of love and joy which are swiftly approaching\nyou.\n\nANTLERS.--An accident is predicted by this symbol.\n\nANVIL.--Your strength and energy will bring you much success in new\nplans or enterprises.\n\nAPE.--This animal points to the fact that you have a secret enemy; it\ndenotes malicious and dangerous persons whose tongues are to be feared;\nit is also a sign of despondency, care, anxiety, and fraud.\n\nAPPLES.--A pleasant sign of happiness, cheerful conditions, good health,\nand fortune.\n\nAPPLE TREES.--These predict a happy event in the apple season.\n\nAPRON.--Near consultant brings a new friend; at a distance new work or\nacquaintances.\n\nARAB.--This symbol points to a need for caution in choosing your\nfriends, or you may find yourself in the power of someone who will prove\nto be an undesirable companion.\n\nARCH.--Things which you desire are developing in the wished-for\ndirection; the arch is a sign of hope; your ambition may be gratified in\na most unexpected manner. See also TRIUMPHAL ARCH.\n\nARK.--This symbol assures you of security and of finding refuge in times\nof distress and turmoil.\n\nARM.--If curved, it signifies love, protection, care and strength;\nstretched out, that a new influence will come into your life which will\nprove to be an endless source of joy and love.\n\nARMOUR.--A suit of armour foretells that you will be called upon to face\ndifficulties and dangers and that you will come through them with\ncourage. See KNIGHT IN ARMOUR.\n\nARROW.--Unpleasant news or a disagreeable letter from the direction in\nwhich it comes.\n\nARTICHOKE.--This signifies sadness, disappointment and delay; sometimes\na secret trouble is indicated by this symbol.\n\nARTIST.--To see an artist at work, indicates association with those who\nstudy art; also a happy nature finding much joy and beauty in life.\n\nARTIST'S MAHL STICK.--This implies an artistic temperament, a dislike of\ndaily duties or irksome tasks, and a fretting under any routine; a lack\nof attention to detail is also a usual characteristic of this symbol.\n\nARUM LILY.--This flower stands for dignity, expectancy, and calm; its\nfuller meanings must be judged by other symbols around it.\n\nASS.--If its head is towards consultant, a piece of good news or an\nevent which has long been waited for is near; if its tail, then further\npatience is necessary, for there will be delay; if it gallops, it gives\nwarning that if people allow themselves to become too boring their\nfriends may reasonably, be expected to avoid them.\n\nASTERS.--These flowers indicate a smooth though possibly a somewhat\nmonotonous life; they also show a settled state of mind and sound\njudgment; if seen in the form of a wreath a death is predicted.\n\nAUTOMATIC MACHINE.--This signifies a lack of initiative and consequent\nfailure in arriving at any great achievement.\n\nAXE.--This shows mastery and power to overcome difficulties; sometimes\nseparation.\n\n\nB\n\nBABY.--A naked baby near consultant is a sign of sadness and\ndisappointment caused by those who are nearest and dearest; to some it\nis a sign of money worries; a baby in arms means reconciliation.\n\nBACON.--Pieces of bacon signify good luck and profitable business.\n\nBADGER.--For a maid, or a bachelor, this symbol predicts a single life,\nbut one of freedom, health and success; for the married, it implies\nregret that they did not remain unmarried.\n\nBAGPIPES.--This symbol gives warning of coming sorrow or much agitation\nand disturbance.\n\nBALL.--See FOOTBALL.\n\nBALLET DANCE.--This is a forecast of unsuccessful plans.\n\nBALLOON.--A symbol which indicates that much is attempted but little\nachieved; there is a passing enthusiasm for various experiments and new\nideas, but the interest soon flags, and finally vanishes as the balloon\nin the clouds.\n\nBANANAS.--These promise gratification and the occurrence of those things\nwhich are most pleasing to you; also a prediction of much happiness and\nsuccess in love affairs.\n\nBANNER.--This is a symbol of a prosperous life for a man and of a\nwealthy marriage for a woman.\n\nBARBER.--This signifies the approach of a new interest coming into your\nlife, which will lead you to be most particular as to your personal\nappearance.\n\nBARREL.--Festivity, possibly a picnic; several barrels, prosperity.\n\nBARREL ORGAN.--Melancholy and a distaste for present circumstances.\n\nBASIN.--This symbol stands for small ailments and minor worries; a\nbroken basin, domestic annoyance.\n\nBASKET.--Domestic duties and family cares; if full, a present given or\nreceived.\n\nBASKET OF FLOWERS.--Happiness and contentment, fulfilled desires.\n\nBASSOON.--This musical instrument implies that your energy is apt to\nexceed your wit.\n\nBAT.--See CRICKET BAT.\n\nBATH.--This indicates grief or dismay.\n\nBATS.--An ill omen showing sickness and trouble in the home; with other\nsigns, a prediction of death.\n\nBAYONET.--A sign to be feared; it shows danger of operation, wounds, and\npain.\n\nBEANS.--These show quarrels and disputes with relations.\n\nBEAR.--A journey north, sometimes prolonged travel. See also POLAR BEAR.\n\nBED.--A visit, illness; or death, according to other symbols.\n\nBEEF.--A round of beef foretells coming financial worries.\n\nBEEHIVE.--This is a symbol of eloquence, mental capacity, and much\nenergy in forming new schemes and carrying them through; also of\nattainment to power and honour.\n\nBEES.--These foretell success through your own ability, many friends and\nenjoyment of life to the full. See also BUMBLE BEE.\n\nBEETLE.--This signifies unrest, domestic tribulation, or disagreements;\nseveral beetles, that there is a risk of slander and abuse by those whom\nyou regard as friends.\n\nBEETROOT.--This symbol indicates that someone will try to do you a bad\nturn, but it will fail in its object and rather turn out as a benefit.\n\nBell.--Amazing news according to other signs in the cup; several bells\nindicate a wedding. See also CANTERBURY BELLS, DIVING BELL, HANDBELL.\n\nBELLADONNA LILY.--This flower is a sign of hope, love, happiness, and\nthe leading of an upright and honourable life.\n\nBELLOWS.--These show an endeavour to make the best of a bad business.\n\nBESOM.--This gives a caution to avoid meddling in other people's affairs\nor you may find yourself regarded as an unpleasant busybody.\n\nBIER.--A symbol of death; if near consultant, a personal sorrow,\notherwise of a less personal nature.\n\nBILLIARD TABLE.--Pleasure followed by regret.\n\nBIRD FEEDING YOUNG.--After a time of patient waiting, your desires will\nbe fulfilled.\n\nBIRD OF PARADISE.--Difficulties and trials are vanishing and a future of\ncomfort and pleasure awaits you.\n\nBIRD ON A PERCH.--If near consultant, news resulting in pleasant plans;\nif at some distance, there is a doubt of the news being sent.\n\nBIRDS.--These are significant of happiness and joyful tidings; a single\nbird flying means speedy news, telegrams; birds in a row on a branch or\nline show that there will be vexatious delay in receiving some\nwished-for news; birds in a circle denote cogitation followed by swift\ndecision. See also CLAPPER FOR SCARING BIRDS and STUFFED BIRDS.\n\nBIRDS IN CAGE.--This implies that a variety of causes prevents you from\nobtaining your dearest wish; should the cage door be open, obstacles\nwill shortly be removed and great happiness will be yours.\n\nBIRD'S NEST.--This signifies a happy discovery, leading to a fortunate\nenterprise brought about to a great extent by your own patience and\nability; it is also a good omen of love, friends, and increase of\nfortune.\n\nBISCUITS.--These seen in various shapes and sizes foretell the\noccurrence of pleasant events.\n\nBISHOP.--A sign of benevolence, authority, and progress; in cope and\nmitre, preferment and honour.\n\nBLUEBELLS.--These indicate that an event bringing you much satisfaction\nand pleasure may be expected to take place in the spring.\n\nBLUEBOTTLE FLY.--Unpleasantness and jealousy will be aroused by your\nsuccess.\n\nBOAR.--This animal shows much energy and push though not always in the\nright direction to bring you unqualified success; it is also a sign of\nobstacles in your path.\n\nBOAT.--Success in a new enterprise; seen with clouds, troubles and\ndisappointment. See also FERRYBOAT.\n\nBOMB.--This foretells a personal disaster or news of an explosion and\nloss of life.\n\nBONES.--These are an indication of misfortune surmounted with courage.\n\nBONNET.--This implies that youth will be past before you have the best\nhappiness of your life. See also WIDOW'S BONNET.\n\nBOOK.--An open book shows a desire for information and a mind ever on\nthe alert to understand new theories and facts; a closed book is a sign\nof expectancy.\n\nBOOKCASE.--This is a pleasing symbol of coming success through study and\nperseverance.\n\nBOOMERANG.--This sign means news from Australia, or that some unexpected\ndevelopment will lead to your having a great interest in that country;\nwith signs of travel, that you will make your home there.\n\nBOOTBLACK.--A bootblack is a sign of failure in your work.\n\nBOOTS.--These show fortunate business, a good income, and the\ngratification of your tastes and pleasures; boots of a curious shape\nforetell an unfortunate enterprise ending in failure.\n\nBOOT-TREE.--A lucky surprise.\n\nBORDER.--See FLOWER BORDER.\n\nBOTTLE.--A sign of happy days; several bottles indicate extravagant\ntastes; small bottles, illness.\n\nBOUQUET.--This is a most fortunate symbol of coming happiness, love,\nfulfilled hope, and marriage.\n\nBOW.--A sign of reunion after absence or estrangement.\n\nBOW AND ARROW.--This denotes that there is unpleasant talk of your\npersonal affairs which may do you harm.\n\nBOWER.--Happiness in love is proclaimed by this symbol.\n\nBOX.--An open box foreshows a troubled love affair; a closed box, that\nyou will find something which you had lost.\n\nBOY.--This symbol must be read in accordance with other signs in the\ncup.\n\nBRACELET.--A discovery made too late.\n\nBRANCH.--A large branch is a sign of much independence and of success in\ncarrying out an undertaking; the larger it is the greater your success;\na broken branch signifies an attempt to organise a project or new scheme\nwhich will end in failure.\n\nBREAD.--A loaf of bread is a sign of the commonplace and of monotony;\nseveral loaves give warning against waste and extravagance, for a\nshortage of corn is threatened; loaves of bread with crossed swords\nabove them predict mutiny and disaffection among those whom the world\ntrusted.\n\nBRICKLAYER'S TROWEL.--A task which you have in hand will be successfully\ncarried out.\n\nBRICKS.--These signify new plans and enterprises which will lead to\nprosperity.\n\nBRIDE.--This sign indicates a wedding, coming joy, or a rival in your\naffections, according to other symbols around it.\n\nBRIDGE.--An advantageous opportunity; a fortunate journey. See also\nSUSPENSION BRIDGE.\n\nBRIDLE.--This points to the fact that you greatly object to interference\nor authority, and that you will always be \"top dog\" with your friends.\n\nBROOCH.--This indicates that you are likely to make a discovery greatly\nto your advantage, and may in time turn it to good account in the\ndevelopment of a patent; a brooch with dots around it predicts a\npresent.\n\nBROOM.--This signifies that there is need for you to be careful in the\nchoice of your friends, and to avoid rushing into an intimacy which you\nmight later have cause to regret.\n\nBUBBLES.--See CHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.\n\nBUCKLES.--These foretell that some important arrangement of much\npersonal advantage will fall through in an unforeseen manner, causing\ndisappointment and dismay.\n\nBUFFALO.--A most unexpected and unusual happening, possibly causing\nagitation and uncertainty as to the best way to proceed.\n\nBUGLE.--This shows a desire for admiration and notice from all whom you\nmeet; it also implies that it is high time to arouse yourself and become\nmore energetic and industrious.\n\nBUILDING.--A sign of removal.\n\nBULL.--An ill omen of misfortune, attacks of pain, or of slander by some\nenemy; if it gallops with tail up, personal danger or illness of someone\ndear to you.\n\nBUMBLE BEE.--This shows a cheerful disposition, making the best of\neveryone and everything, easily gratified tastes and pleasures; many\nfriends and social success; with other signs, travel is indicated.\n\nBUNS.--These signify social amusements and duties, also that you usually\ntake a cheery view of things even in troublesome circumstances.\n\nBUOY.--This is a symbol of hope; you have a good friend in all weathers.\n\nBUSH.--Invitations and social enjoyments.\n\nBUTTER.--This signifies good fortune and success, the comforts of life,\nand a desire for the best of everything.\n\nBUTTERFLY.--Passing pleasure, power of attraction, many admirers, and\nflirtations; to the lover it speaks of inconstancy.\n\nBUTTONHOOK.--An exchange between friends, successfully organised plans,\nand a propitious meeting.\n\nBUTTONS.--If of various size and shape they mean that there will be many\nsuggestions as to arrangements and new plans without anything definite\nbeing settled.\n\n\nC\n\nCAB.--A sign of gloom, sadness and parting.\n\nCABBAGE.--This symbol points out that in spite of thrift and diligence,\nyou will never be very rich.\n\nCABINET.--An unexpected and fortunate discovery, giving you much\npleasure and satisfaction, possibly wealth and unthought-of prosperity.\n\nCAGE.--An empty cage shows that you expect to find all manner of amiable\nqualities in others which are entirely lacking in yourself. See also\nBIRDS IN CAGE.\n\nCAKES.--New friends, social success, invitations, and hospitality. See\nalso WEDDING CAKE.\n\nCALF.--This signifies a need for gentleness and kindness to those with\nwhom you associate.\n\nCAMEL.--A responsibility satisfactorily carried out; sometimes\nfrustrated plans and endless delays; a camel laden means wealth from an\nunexpected source abroad.\n\nCAMERA.--This proclaims the fact that you are too fond of gathering new\nor clever ideas from others, with a view to passing them off as your own\noriginal thoughts whenever the opportunity arises.\n\nCAMPANULAS.--These flowers indicate that your hope is centred on one\ndesire, and assure you of the certainty of obtaining your wish.\n\nCANDLE.--This is significant of trials, worries, or illness.\n\nCANDLE EXTINGUISHER.--An uncomfortable incident or episode which will\nput you out considerably.\n\nCANDLESTICK.--You have need to look at things from a wider point of\nview; to make the best of yourself you must cultivate perception.\n\nCANNON.--This denotes military and naval display and good fortune; with\npleasant symbols around or near, such as a crown or star, promotion for\nsomeone dear to you in the service.\n\nCANOE.--This implies that a new friendship will eventually lead to a\nhappy love affair.\n\nCANOPY.--This brings success through the help and interest of those who\nare socially or mentally your superiors.\n\nCANTERBURY BELLS.--These graceful flowers indicate that your happiness\nis to a great extent dependent upon others; if the figure of a woman\nappeared beside the flowers it will be through a woman that your best\nhappiness comes, if a man were seen it will be one of the male sex to\nwhom you must look for your chief joy in life.\n\nCAP.--This warns you to be cautious in your dealings with those of the\nopposite sex; it also points to the fact that those things which you\ndesire to hide will become known. See also PEAKED CAP.\n\nCAPSTAN.--To those associated with the sea, this symbol gives warning of\nstorms; to others, it predicts association with sailors or yachtsmen.\n\nCARAFE.--A pleasure which will depend entirely upon yourself is the\nmeaning of this symbol.\n\nCARAVAN.--This signifies an independent nature, desiring to live a\nroaming life free of restrictions; should a horse be harnessed to the\ncaravan your ambitions will be fulfilled.\n\nCARDS.--See ACE OF CLUBS, ACE OF DIAMONDS, ACE OF HEARTS, ACE OF SPADES.\n\nCARNATIONS.--These sweet-scented flowers bring happiness, faithfulness,\nlove, and good friends.\n\nCARPENTER AT WORK.--Necessary arrangement of your affairs is the meaning\nof this symbol.\n\nCARRIAGE AND HORSES.-This foretells that your affairs will prosper and\nthat you may reasonably expect the comforts of life; a carriage without\nhorses means that your riches will be transitory, leaving you in\npoverty; with other signs it denotes that you may be the victim of\nscandal.\n\nCARRYING CHAIR.--An omen of illness or accident.\n\nCART.--A symbol of fluctuation in fortune and of a tedious waiting for\nany settled improvement in financial affairs.\n\nCARVING.--Handsome carving is a sign of satisfaction and development.\n\nCASTLE.--You may expect fortune to smile upon you; a crumbling castle\ndenotes disappointment and ill success in love and marriage.\n\nCAT.--This is an uncomfortable sign of trickery, meanness, and quarrels\namong relations, money matters probably being the disturbing cause; a\ncat jumping shows worries and difficulty.\n\nCATERPILLAR.--You are likely to be criticized unkindly by those who are\nenvious of you, although you have no suspicion that these people are\nanything but friendly in their feeling towards you; there is slyness and\ndeception, and it would be well to be on your guard or you may find\nunpleasant gossip has been spread about you.\n\nCATHEDRAL.--Prosperity, contentment, and happiness with those whom you\nlove is the meaning of this symbol.\n\nCATTLE.--Profitable transactions.\n\nCAULDRON.--New opportunities which need careful consideration.\n\nCAULIFLOWER.--This signifies that even your best friends cannot describe\nyou as constant or reliable.\n\nCAVE.--Unless you rouse yourself and use a little more push, you are\nlikely to remain in obscurity all your life.\n\nCELERY.--A vigorous body and active mind which will preserve the\nenergies of youth to a good old age.\n\nCHAIN.--An engagement or wedding; an entangled chain means a dilemma\nwhich will tax your ingenuity to the utmost; a long, thick chain\nindicates ties that you wish to undo; a broken one, trouble in store.\n\nCHAIR.--A small chair shows an arrival; a large one, deliberation over a\nnew plan. See also CARRYING CHAIR, ROCKING CHAIR.\n\nCHATELAINE.--This signifies that a variety of people will be\ninstrumental in your career; it is also an indication that you are\nsomewhat inclined to depend too much on sentimental and demonstrative\naffection.\n\nCHAMPAGNE GLASS.--This is a symbol of good fortune and delight; to the\nsick, a good omen of recovery.\n\nCHEESE.--A large cheese denotes that you will benefit by the generosity\nof prosperous friends.\n\nCHERRIES.--A love affair, happiness, and health, are the meanings of\nthis symbol.\n\nCHESSMEN.--These announce the fact that you will be troubled by matters\nwhich are difficult to adjust to your satisfaction, and you must expect\na certain amount of anxiety and worry.\n\nCHESTNUT TREE.--An event of interest and importance may be expected in\nthe spring.\n\nCHESTNUTS.--These show determination in carrying out a scheme which you\nthink will benefit you.\n\nCHICKEN.--This shows new interests and pleasures; if roosting, domestic\ntribulation; if flying, troublesome matters.\n\nCHILD.--This is a sign that you will soon be making fresh plans or\nforming new projects; a child running means bad news or threatened\ndanger; at play, tranquillity and pleasure.\n\nCHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.--Occasions of sadness and joy in quick\nsuccession.\n\nCHILD WITH DANCING-DOLL.--The gratification of a wish through an\nentirely unexpected means.\n\nCHILD WITH TAMBOURINE.--Pleasure, lightheartedness, coming good news.\n\nCHIMNEY.--Unless you are cautious you will take a false step; a chimney\nwith smoke to be seen means that you are content, and find pleasure in\ndaily routine and a somewhat commonplace life.\n\nCHINAMAN.--There is someone who appears eager to serve you but in\nreality is far from being trustworthy.\n\nCHINESE LANTERN.--False security, the evidence of which will soon be\nbrought to your notice.\n\nCHISEL.--A symbol of losses, dismay, and trouble.\n\nCHRISTMAS TREE.--This sign indicates that you may expect some special\nhappiness at the Christmas season.\n\nCHRYSANTHEMUMS.--These beautiful flowers assure you of a long desired\nhope in connection with someone dear to you which will be realised in\nthe autumn.\n\nCHURCH.--Courage, honour, and tranquillity; a legacy.\n\nCHURNING.--This is a happy omen for good and successful results in all\nyou undertake; you will be fortunate and will always take a turn in the\nright direction for your own happiness.\n\nCIGAR.--A wealthy friend or lover who will absorb all your thoughts; a\nbroken cigar signifies a disagreeable incident or a quarrel.\n\nCIRCLE.--Money, presents, an engagement, faithful friends.\n\nCLAPPER FOR SCARING BIRDS.--This sign proclaims that you are offended at\nsmall faults or failings in others, and are always eager to bring them\ninto notice, but are blind to your own more obvious deficiencies.\n\nCLARIONET.--A pleasure which will be gratified in an unlooked-for\nmanner.\n\nCLAW.--This symbol foretells scandal or evil influence.\n\nCLENCHED HAND.--Indignation; disputes.\n\nCLERGYMAN.--Reconciliation in a long-standing feud.\n\nCLOCK.--A sign that you desire to hurry over the present and arrive at a\ntime to which you are looking forward.\n\nCLOUDS.--These denote disappointment, failure of plans, and dismay.\n\nCLOVER.--A very lucky sign of coming good fortune.\n\nCLOVES.--This symbol proclaims the desire for appreciation and the wish\nto appear at your best on all occasions.\n\nCLOWN.--Your folly is apparent to everyone.\n\nCLUBS.--See GOLF CLUBS, ACE OF CLUBS.\n\nCOACH.--If with horses, you may look forward to a time of ease and\nluxury; if without horses, it warns you against an act of folly or a\nharmful indiscretion.\n\nCOAL.--Prosperity and good fellowship\n\nCOAL-SCOOP.--This signifies domestic difficulties or vexation at the\nturn things have taken.\n\nCOAL SCUTTLE.--You will adapt yourself to unaccustomed circumstances\nrequiring much energy.\n\nCOAT.--Sadness caused through a parting; if the coat is ragged,\ndistressing news; without sleeves, failure in a new undertaking.\n\nCOBBLER.--This predicts a life of arduous and ill-paid work, poor\nhealth, and a struggle to make both ends meet.\n\nCOBRA.--A warning of grave danger to you or yours.\n\nCOCK.--A sign of forthcoming good news, of conquest and triumph.\n\nCOCKATOO.--This bird indicates disturbance in the home and some vexation\nwith friends.\n\nCOCKCHAFER.--This predicts a bad harvest season; flying, the arrival of\nsudden news of a somewhat disagreeable nature.\n\nCOCOANUT.--Travel or interesting discoveries.\n\nCOFFEE POT.--Dependence on creature comforts; slight indisposition.\n\nCOFFIN.--A bad omen of coming bereavement; a coffin with a sword beside\nit shows death of a soldier; with a flag, that of a sailor; with\nsnowdrops, death of a child or infant.\n\nCOLLAR.--Perseverance in the face of obstacles will bring you a great\nreward.\n\nCOLLAR-STUD.--A reminder of some tiresome or disagreeable little duty\nwhich you would fain forget.\n\nCOLUMBINE.--These flowers foretell the renewal of a former friendship\nwhich is brought about by means of an unthought-of meeting.\n\nCOMB.--You will find out that your confidence in someone was misplaced\nand this discovery will cause you much distress.\n\nCOMET.--Favourable weather; unusual and interesting events; to lovers it\nis an unfavourable omen of separation and blighted hope.\n\nCOMPASSES.--This sign implies that you may expect to travel and to spend\nyour life in interesting activities.\n\nCONCERTINA.--This symbol proclaims dilatory habits and feeble wit.\n\nCONDUCTOR.--See MUSIC CONDUCTOR.\n\nCONVOLVULI.--This flower shows feelings of sadness; love and hope which\nhave lasted but a short time now leave only memories to which you cling.\n\nCORKS.--This sign shows the power of adapting yourself to your company,\nand of proving yourself useful in awkward situations.\n\nCORKSCREW.--This denotes that you will be vexed by inquisitive people\nwho trouble you with questions.\n\nCORMORANT.--This bird is a symbol of agility, swift decisions, and the\nattainment of your ambition through the power of rapid thought and work.\n\nCORN.--This is a pleasant omen of wealth and success.\n\nCORNUCOPIA.--This symbol predicts great happiness and unqualified\nsuccess.\n\nCOVER.--See MEAT COVER.\n\nCOW.--A calm, contented state of mind, peaceful and prosperous days.\n\nCOWSLIPS.--A sign of joy; to the married it foretells a birth.\n\nCRAB.--Strife, family disagreements, an enemy.\n\nCRADLE.--A birth; a broken cradle, sorrow or anxiety about a child.\n\nCRANE.--Heavy burdens and anxiety are indicated by this symbol.\n\nCRESTS.--These are often to be seen and must to some extent be read in\nconnection with other signs in the cup; large crests indicate news of,\nor communications with, those in positions of authority; small crests,\ninteresting family developments.\n\nCRICKET BAT.--A love of sport and a keen desire for fair play in all\nmatters.\n\nCRINOLINE.--This predicts that unless you retrench in your expenditure,\nyou will have but a pittance to spend upon your dress.\n\nCROCUSES.--These flowers are an emblem of joy, and of radiant happiness\nin love.\n\nCROQUET-MALLET.--A cheerful and patient disposition, always making the\nbest of things, is the meaning of this symbol.\n\nCROSS.--You must expect to meet with hindrances and obstacles in the way\nof your desires; sorrow and misfortune are also indicated by this\nsymbol. See also MALTESE CROSS.\n\nCROSSED KEYS.--A sign of authority, power and honour, and an assurance\nof comfort and help in times of difficulty or doubt.\n\nCROWN.--Advancement and honour; the attainment of your highest ambition.\n\nCRUTCHES.--This is an unpleasant sign of forthcoming illness or accident\nwhich causes lameness for the time being.\n\nCUCUMBER.--A new plan successfully carried out.\n\nCUP.--A large cup tells of a splendid opportunity coming your way which\nwill insure your future success; a small cup means that a little anxiety\nis before you.\n\nCUPBOARD.--Disappointment in money affairs.\n\nCURTAIN.--This symbol proclaims that someone is hiding a matter from you\nwhich it would be to your advantage to learn; with other signs in the\ncup which are good you may conclude that the matter will be revealed to\nyou shortly.\n\nCUSTARD-GLASSES.--A signal of illness, possibly chicken pox or measles.\n\nCYPRESS.--This tree indicates that you bravely face a difficulty, and\nfinally overcome it by your own endeavours.\n\n\nD\n\nDAFFODILS.--A long-desired hope is about to come to pass, or a\ndelightful holiday spent in the company of those most congenial to you.\n\nDAGGER.--If near and pointing towards consultant, it would be a bad sign\nof danger from wounds or an operation; if more distant, it shows a much\nless personal danger.\n\nDAHLIAS.--A sign of some important event which you may expect to take\nplace in the autumn; it also denotes thrift and increase of fortune.\n\nDAISIES.--These imply that you have an attractive, child-like nature,\nfinding happiness in simple pleasures; a circle of daisies means that\nyou attract someone to you of the same nature as yourself who will\nbecome all the world to you.\n\nDAMSONS.--These denote complication of your affairs.\n\nDANCE.--See BALLET DANCE.\n\nDANCER.--A pleasant omen of coming pleasure and gratification, good\nnews, happiness in love and friendship; it also means that you will\nreceive an unexpected invitation; several figures dancing in happy\nabandonment foretell that your hopes and desires will be fulfilled, and\nthat many changes will occur, all tending to your success and future\nhappiness.\n\nDANCING-DOLL.--See CHILD WITH DANCING DOLL.\n\nDANDELION.--Unexpected news of the marriage of an old friend whom you\nhad always supposed would never marry.\n\nDATES.--A pleasure which is unlikely to come up to your expectations is\nthe meaning of this symbol.\n\nDEER.--An unfortunate indication that your ventures in new directions of\nwork or business will end in failure; if running, a fruitless endeavour\nto undo your past mistakes; a dead deer, that you will be the innocent\ncause of distress to someone you love.\n\nDESK.--You will receive a letter which will upset you, or you will lose\nthe friendship of someone with whom you have corresponded regularly for\nmany years.\n\nDEVIL.--This symbol gives warning that reformation is needed, or you may\nfind yourself so tightly in the grip of bad influence that it will be\nwell-nigh impossible to extricate yourself.\n\nDIADEM.--This ensign of royalty shows that your ambition is realised\nbeyond your expectations; wonderful good fortune and influential friends\nassure you of an unusually successful career.\n\nDIAMONDS.--See ACE OF DIAMONDS.\n\nDISH.--Anxiety in household matters; a broken dish is a foretaste of a\ngreater loss.\n\nDIVER.--A great and unexpected piece of news which will lead to a\nfortunate discovery; to the lover, it reveals deception.\n\nDIVING-BELL.--This sign predicts that you may one day find yourself in\ndanger on the sea or river.\n\nDOG.--This symbol has many meanings which must be read in accordance\nwith the other symbols; in a general way this sign indicates adverse\nconditions, the thwarting of life's chances, unfortunate love affairs,\nfamily misfortune and money troubles; a large dog sometimes signifies\nprotection and good friends; a small dog, vexation and impatience.\n\nDOLL.--A festivity at which you will endeavour to conceal your feelings\nof boredom under somewhat foolish hilarity. See also CHILD WITH DANCING\nDOLL, RAG DOLL.\n\nDOLPHIN.--A cheerful and optimistic character, pleasure on the sea or\nriver.\n\nDOVECOT.--Peace in the home.\n\nDOVES.--These birds give a personal message of happiness and an\nassurance of faithfulness in love, peaceful circumstances, high ideals,\nand progress; to those who are at enmity this symbol proclaims\nreconciliation; to the sick or anxious, comfort and hope; to a business\nman, a fortunate omen of success.\n\nDRAGON.--Great and sudden changes about which there is an element of\ndanger.\n\nDRAGON-FLY.--Tidings of unexpected occurrences, unlooked-for events, new\nand advantageous opportunities, sometimes new clothes or furniture.\n\nDRUM.--A hazardous enterprise or expedition is the meaning of this\nsymbol.\n\nDRUMMER.--To a man, this foreshows popularity and a successful public\ncareer; to a woman, social success, a large following of friends and\nadmirers, and power of gaining her own ends.\n\nDUCK.--A sign of a taste for speculation; if more than one duck, success\nin work and enterprise, profitable undertakings.\n\nDUMB BELL.--A chance meeting which will lead to the making of a new\nfriend.\n\nDUSTPAN AND BRUSH.--You will be certain to hear of domestic tribulation\namongst your friends or relatives; if this symbol appears in your cup\nwith other signs of vexation, it would indicate personal domestic\nannoyance.\n\nDWARF.--This portends calamity, accident, or disgrace.\n\n\nE\n\nEAGLE.--This predicts that you may expect most beneficial changes, the\nrealisation of a long-cherished hope, and possibly an inheritance of\nwealth from an unexpected source; a flying eagle shows the coming of\nwealth and honour after a change of residence; with a vulture, death of\na monarch; a dead eagle, public loss and mourning.\n\nEAGLE'S NEST.--An eagle on its nest foretells association with those in\nplaces of authority and honour; it also denotes a life of wealth and\nease.\n\nEAR.--A large ear shows that you will be shocked by hearing of some\nscandal or abuse; a normal ear means that you will receive some\ninteresting and pleasant piece of news or valuable information.\n\nEAR-RINGS.--To a man this symbol proclaims the displeasure of one of the\nopposite sex; to a woman, the humiliation of unrequited affection.\n\nEARWIG.--A sign of uncomfortable discoveries in the home, troubles with\ndomestics, deceit and prying.\n\nEASEL.--A sign of marriage to widows and maids; to the married, increase\nof worldly goods; this symbol must be read in connection with other\nindications in the cup.\n\nEELS.--This is an unpleasant symbol meaning malicious tongues and\ntreacherous friends, also gossip over money matters.\n\nEGG-CUP.--A sign of an escape from a threatened disaster.\n\nEGGS.--New plans and ideas, or a birth.\n\nELEPHANT.--A sign of power, travel, promotion, happiness and stability\nin love and friendship.\n\nELF.--This symbol should put you on your guard or you may be the victim\nof an unpleasant practical joke.\n\nELM TREE.--A good omen of prosperity and coming happiness.\n\nEMU.--Lack of caution will not be one of your failings.\n\nENGINE.--Journeys, trouble on the railway, strikes, accident, and hasty\nnews are the meanings of this symbol.\n\nENSIGN.--See FLAG.\n\nESCAPE.--See FIRE ESCAPE.\n\nEXTINGUISHER.--See CANDLE EXTINGUISHER.\n\nEYE.--This signifies penetration and the solving of difficulties; it\nalso shows depth of character and love.\n\nEYEGLASSES.--You will make a beneficial discovery through surprising\nmeans.\n\n\nF\n\nFACES.--Several of these denote an invitation to a party or wedding;\nugly faces mean disturbances or bad news; pretty faces, pleasure and\nlove; two faces upon one head, looking diverse ways, indicate that you\nmay hear yourself accused of deception and falseness, or that these\nthings may be practised upon you; a bearded face, health and strength,\nbut an indolent nature, which is a source of vexation to those around\nyou.\n\nFALCON.--This bird warns you to be on your guard, for you have an enemy.\n\nFAN.--Love of admiration, frivolity, pleasure with the opposite sex.\n\nFATE.--This is indicated by a straight thin line of tea leaves which\nascends towards the consultant; what may be expected of fate must be\njudged by the line itself and other signs in the cup.\n\nFEATHERS.--Large feathers signify achievement and prosperity; to\nauthors, literary success; small feathers denote something of which you\nare afraid, but which you will meet with courage.\n\nFEET.--You will be called upon to take a decisive step in some matter\nwhich may lead up to an eventful change in your life.\n\nFENCE.--This means that there is but a step between you and success.\n\nFENDER.--You will constantly come in contact with someone to whom you\nfeel a strong antipathy.\n\nFERNS.--Dignity, peace, and steadfast love are the meanings of this\nsymbol.\n\nFERRET.--Jealousy and enmity are likely to cause you distress.\n\nFERRY-BOAT.--This symbol implies that difficulties will be smoothed away\nfor you by the aid of good and useful friends.\n\nFIELD MARSHAL'S HAT.--To a soldier, or those who are associated with\nthem, this is a sign of coming promotion, triumph, and of the attainment\nto honour.\n\nFIGS.--These indicate joy and abundance of the good things of this\nworld; to those in business it is an omen of success and prosperity.\n\nFIGUREHEAD OF A SHIP.--A good omen for your future Welfare; this symbol\npredicts that you will be enabled to steer your course through smooth\nwaters.\n\nFIGURES.--See NUMBERS, HUMAN FIGURES, RUNNING FIGURES.\n\nFINGER.--This usually indicates a special need for attention to be paid\nto adjoining symbols.\n\nFIRE-ENGINE.--An evidence of a serious fire of which you will hear or\nfrom which you will suffer; this must be judged by other indications in\nthe cup.\n\nFIRE-ESCAPE.--An urgent warning to take all precautions against fire.\n\nFIREPLACE.--Your chief interests in life will probably lie in your home;\nsmall duties, simple pleasures, and a circle of friends.\n\nFISH.--News from abroad; with other signs of movement, emigration; a\nstarfish is a sign of good luck.\n\nFLAG.--Danger, rebellion, and war are the meanings of this symbol.\n\nFLOWER-BORDER.--That for which you have long hoped and waited is about\nto come to pass.\n\nFLOWERS.--Many pleasant meanings may be given to this symbol, good\nfortune, happiness, love, marriage, and a large circle of admiring\nfriends, being among them. See also BASKET OF FLOWERS, FOXGLOVES, LILY,\nFORGET-ME-NOT.\n\nFLY.--This signifies small vexations and annoyances which will ruffle\nyou considerably. See also BLUEBOTTLE FLY, DRAGON FLY.\n\nFONT.--News of a birth or an invitation to a christening party.\n\nFOOT.--This indicates a journey; a swollen foot, injury, or news of an\naccident to the foot.\n\nFOOTBALL.--Love of outdoor games, or a keen interest in the welfare of\nthose who take part in them, is shown by this symbol.\n\nFORGE.--This implies a need for refinement and of reconstructing your\nideas on many subjects.\n\nFORGET-ME-NOT.--This flower speaks of the attainment of a cherished\nhope, also that you will probably find your truest happiness in love and\nmarriage.\n\nFORK.--This warns you against those who constantly flatter you; it would\nbe well for you to be on your guard or you may one day awake to the fact\nthat all this flattery was used as a tool to harm you.\n\nFOUNTAIN.--A most favourable omen foretelling happiness, success in love\nand marriage, prosperity in business, and good fortune in all you\nundertake; this symbol also points to an unexpected legacy.\n\nFOX.--This denotes that you may have an unsuspected enemy, possibly\ndisloyal dependents; sometimes it means theft and trickery.\n\nFOXGLOVES.--These show ambition and attainment; if broken or bending,\ndefeated plans and hopes.\n\nFROG.--A change of residence; with other signs, new work or profession;\nwith bad symbols around, unpleasant sights and stories.\n\nFRUIT.--A happy sign of forthcoming prosperity and general advancement.\n\n\nG\n\nGAITERS.--Your chief interests will be in outdoor work and amusements;\nintellectual pursuits will not attract you; to clergy, or to those\nassociated with them, gaiters indicate promotion.\n\nGALLOWS.--An omen of great distress and tragedy.\n\nGARDEN ROLLER.--An indication that things around you are liable to\nbecome somewhat unmanageable, and that you will need tact and strength\nto avoid being crushed by circumstances.\n\nGARLAND.--A sign of happiness, love and honour.\n\nGARTERS.--A contempt for feminine weakness is the meaning of this sign.\n\nGATE.--An excellent opportunity awaits you, perhaps the chance of a\nlifetime; massive high gates denote restriction, misery, or\nimprisonment.\n\nGEESE.--These indicate the arrival of unexpected and rather troublesome\nvisitors.\n\nGENTIAN.--A memory which is interwoven with sorrow and joy.\n\nGERANIUM.--This flower shows a strong will and determined character,\ncontentment, and happiness; it also denotes two opposite natures who\nhave a great bond of affection between them.\n\nGIANT.--There is, or will be, a serious obstacle in your path.\n\nGIMLET.--You will be unpleasantly reminded of a disagreeable fact.\n\nGIRAFFE.--You are apt to cause mischief through blundering and the\nmaking of incorrect statements.\n\nGLADIOLI.--These flowers indicate courage in the face of difficulty;\nhope and tenderness.\n\nGLASSES.--These show that you will entertain your friends on a lavish\nscale, and delight in hospitality, but will occasionally be confronted\nby difficulties in your arrangements. See also CHAMPAGNE GLASS,\nCUSTARD-GLASSES, EYEGLASSES, HAND GLASS.\n\nGLEANER.--You will always endeavour to make the best of the\ncircumstances in which you find yourself but will seldom possess the\nmost desirable things in life.\n\nGOAT.--A new enterprise which has an element of risk about it; a goat is\nan unfortunate sign to sailors or to those connected with them.\n\nGOLF CLUBS.--These indicate a life so full of work that there is but\nlittle leisure for recreation.\n\nGONDOLA.--A visit to Italy, or a romance are the meanings of this sign.\n\nGONG-AND-STICK.--This symbol warns you to expect little else than the\n\"trivial round and common task\" for the present.\n\nGOOSE.--A venture needing much discussion and arrangement; plans are\nmade only to be upset again, and unless you proceed with caution, you\nare likely to make a bad mistake.\n\nGRAMOPHONE.--This usually portends vexation at being drawn into a\nsomewhat disorderly and noisy pleasure.\n\nGRAPES.--These signify pleasure, abundance, fulfilment, and a life free\nfrom care.\n\nGRASSHOPPERS.--These insects give warning of a poor harvest season; for\nan old person the risk of chill leading to severe illness.\n\nGRAVE.--This symbol must be read in accordance with its position, also\nwith reference to other signs in the cup; as a general rule, with gloomy\nsigns it would bring a message of coming sorrow, or with cheerful\nsymbols that a death would benefit the consultant.\n\nGREYHOUND.--This sign stands for energy and untiring activity which will\nbring you unqualified success; it also denotes that you may expect\nfavourable tidings of the result of a new enterprise.\n\nGRINDSTONE.--The aftermath of an indiscretion.\n\nGUITAR.--This symbol displays strong power of attraction for the\nopposite sex, also pleasant adventures ending in a happy love affair.\n\nGUN.--A very disquieting symbol, grave danger of a sudden calamity; with\nother bad signs, a violent death.\n\n\nH\n\nHAMMER.--Troublesome little tasks which you are reluctant to undertake.\n\nHAMMOCK.--A mournful ending of something to which you had looked forward\nwith delight.\n\nHAM WITH FRILL.--This denotes a nice invitation, hospitality, pleasure\nwith your friends; also enjoyment followed by dismay; a ham without a\nfrill means increasing fortune and success.\n\nHAND.--A sign of good fellowship, loyalty, and affection; it may also\nindicate a parting, a meeting or a bargain concluded; other signs around\nit must be noticed in order to read its special meaning. See also\nCLENCHED HAND.\n\nHANDBELL.--You would much like to startle the world by a wonderful\ndiscovery or amazing theory by which your name would be known for all\ntime but you will need every possible good symbol to appear in the cup\nto give you any assurance of your ambition being gratified.\n\nHANDCUFFS.--Disgrace, imprisonment, misfortune, and dishonesty; this\nsign must be read in connection with others around it.\n\nHANDGLASS.--An illusion quickly dispelled is the meaning of this symbol.\n\nHANDSCREEN.--Even small demands sometimes necessitate great effort on\nthe part of those to whom the demand is made.\n\nHARE.--The return of an absent friend after a long absence; if it is\nrunning, a journey is indicated; a dead hare foreshows money acquired\nthrough industry.\n\nHAREBELL.--Peace, a placid existence, and faithfulness in love are the\nmeanings of this lovely little flower; with other signs you may expect\nnews of a birth.\n\nHARP.--This is a sign of melancholy and predicts the possibility of a\nnervous breakdown.\n\nHARRISSI LILY.--These graceful flowers predict peace, joy, hope, and a\nwedding.\n\nHARROW.--This shows that much of your time will be given endeavouring to\nmake the lives of those around you smooth and happy, whilst you\ncheerfully spend your days in a somewhat monotonous manner.\n\nHARVEST.--A shock of corn is a somewhat sad emblem showing that you have\nsown that of which the reaping will be tears; it is also a warning of\nillness, especially to the aged.\n\nHASTENER FOR ROASTING MEAT.--You are reminded that you should endeavour\nto move with the times, and not cling so tenaciously to ideas and habits\nwhich are now obsolete.\n\nHAT.--A symbol of luck, presents, success in new work or enterprise;\nsometimes it foreshows the arrival of a visitor.\n\nHAWK.--This is an unfortunate symbol, as it denotes circumstances in\nwhich people and things seem to be working against you, placing you in\nawkward and embarrassing predicaments.\n\nHAYRICK.--This indicates a desire for mastery and preeminence; it also\nshows that a doubt will arise as to how best to proceed, but you will\nfind the right way out and will come to a wise decision.\n\nHEAD.--A large head gives warning of family trouble or of serious\nillness; a very small head, waning ability or power; several heads,\nmental distress or derangement.\n\nHEARSE.--A sign of bereavement or of sad news of those who are bereaved.\n\nHEART.--A sign of coming happiness through the affections bringing joy\ninto your life, or satisfaction through money, according to other signs\nnear.\n\nHEARTS.--See ACE OF HEARTS.\n\nHEATHER.--A most fortunate sign of gratified wishes and of coming good\nluck; to lovers it is an assurance of much happiness.\n\nHEDGE.--This shows that through energy and perseverance you will\nsurmount obstacles and carry all before you.\n\nHEDGEHOG.--You will be immensely surprised by hearing that someone whom\nyou had always thought of as a confirmed bachelor is about to be\nmarried.\n\nHEMLOCK.--The shadows of your past life have an inconvenient habit of\nappearing at the most awkward moments.\n\nHENS.--Comfort and domestic felicity; a hen roosting shows domestic\nannoyance and money worries.\n\nHIGHLANDER.--This is a sign of sound business capacity and a plodding\ncontriver in transactions.\n\nHIVE.--See BEEHIVE.\n\nHOCKEY-STICK.--A keenness for games and success in the playing of them.\n\nHOE.--This means that you will often have more to do than you can well\naccomplish; each day things will occur needing your attention and\nincreasing your work, but in spite of it you will have good health and\ncheerfulness.\n\nHOLLY.--This indicates that something of importance may be expected to\noccur in the winter; unless gloomy signs appear in the cup, it may be\nassumed that the event will be a happy one.\n\nHOLLYHOCK.--You will have a friend, or lover, who will never disappoint\nyou.\n\nHONEYCOMB.--Prosperous undertakings, honour and renown, and much which\nis delightful are foreshown by this symbol.\n\nHOOP.--You will find immense satisfaction in doing things that require\nenergy even if they are of little importance.\n\nHORNS.--You have a powerful enemy, or at least someone who has feelings\nof animosity towards you, which may prove to be unpleasant in their\nresult.\n\nHORSE.--Comforts, loyal friends, and pleasure; galloping horses mean\nthat events are hurrying towards you over which you have no control,\nbringing many changes into your life. See also CARRIAGE AND HORSES.\n\nHORSE-COLLAR.--To those who own horses, or do business with them, this\nsign is a pleasant indication of success in some transaction; to others\nit would imply toil and a strenuous effort to keep things going.\n\nHORSEMAN.--See MOUNTED HORSEMAN.\n\nHORSESHOE.--An unexpected piece of good fortune, the achievement of your\nwish, and good luck in all you undertake; a double horseshoe hastens the\narrival of your desires; a horseshoe reversed means an upset of plans\ncausing much disappointment and vexation; a broken one denotes a\ndilemma, trials, or discomforts.\n\nHOT-WATER BOTTLE.--You will always find compensation in all trials and\ndiscomforts.\n\nHOT-WATER CAN.--Indisposition, irritability, annoyances.\n\nHOURGLASS.--A warning against delay in arrangements or thought-of plans;\nwith other signs, the hourglass is a grave warning of peril through\nillness or accident.\n\nHOUSE.--A successful transaction, a visit, a new home.\n\nHUMAN FIGURES.--These must be judged with regard to what they appear to\nbe doing.\n\nHYACINTH.--This flower predicts love, joy, and gratified ambition.\n\n\nI\n\nIBEX ON ROCK.--After a time of strenuous effort and struggle, you will\nachieve triumph and a position of security and peace.\n\nINDIAN.--This symbol predicts news from India; the nature of the\ninformation, whether personal, public, pleasant, or the reverse, must be\njudged by other indications in the cup.\n\nINITIALS.--These frequently occur, and usually point to names of people\nfrom whom you may expect to hear shortly; or they may indicate places.\n\nINKPOT.--Expectancy.\n\nIRIS.--These flowers bring a message of hope and pleasure.\n\nIRON.--Small vexations or troubles which will quickly pass, is the\nmeaning of this symbol.\n\nIVORY.--This foretells increased wealth and a well-merited reward for\npast industry.\n\nIVY.--Patience, understanding, steadfastness, and loyal friends are\nindicated by this sign.\n\n\nJ\n\nJACKDAW.--Sagacity, dependable friends, and knowledge acquired by\npersevering study.\n\nJAM.--Pots of jam caution you against extravagance and waste.\n\nJELLY.--This foreshows a time of pleasure and a time of pain.\n\nJEMMY.--A bad attack of toothache is indicated by this weapon.\n\nJEWELLERY.--You may expect an increase of wealth, possibly good presents\nalso.\n\nJOCKEY.--Successful dealing and good money enterprise; luck in racing\nand speculation.\n\nJOHN BULL.--This figure implies that you are likely to witness, or\npartake in, an event of national importance.\n\nJUDGE IN ROBES.--Legal affairs, personal or otherwise according to other\nindications in the cup; this sign is often seen during a famous trial or\nwhen such is about to take place.\n\nJUG.--This shows good health and money making.\n\nJUMPING FIGURE.--Change which will be greatly to your advantage.\n\n\nK\n\nKANGAROO.--You will receive an unlooked-for and interesting piece of\nnews; sometimes it indicates that you have a rival.\n\nKETTLE.--This is a sign of illness; unless a human figure appears beside\nit, the illness is probably for the consultant; it is an omen of coming\ntrouble.\n\nKEY.--Circumstances will improve, things will become easy, and your path\nwill be made smooth; you may hope for success in whatever you have on\nhand; a key at some distance from the consultant denotes the need for\nthe assistance of good and influential friends in times of difficulty.\nSee also CROSSED KEYS.\n\nKEYHOLE.--This gives warning of a need for caution, for someone of whom\nyou feel no suspicion is untrustworthy.\n\nKINGFISHER.--This beautiful bird signifies the return of someone for\nwhom you have been longing; if flying, news of a surprising nature will\nspeedily arrive.\n\nKING ON HIS THRONE.--Security and peace; it may also mean that you gain\na high position through influential friends.\n\nKITE.--Vanishing pleasures and benefits, or scandal, are the meanings of\nthis sign.\n\nKNEELING FIGURE.--A new enterprise or project; care should be taken to\nthink it over well; do nothing rashly and seek reliable advice.\n\nKNIFE.--This is an unpleasant sign of quarrels, broken friendship, and\ntears.\n\nKNIGHT IN ARMOUR.--This sign predicts good fortune, success in love, and\nloyalty to your friends.\n\nKNIVES.--These signify danger of wounds, attacks of pain, and dismay.\n\n\nL\n\nLABURNUM TREE.--A sign of delight and the fulfilment of a cherished\nhope, probably occurring in the spring.\n\nLADDER.--This signifies advancement, influential friends, and the\nattainment of good fortune.\n\nLAMB.--An indication that you will be amazed by the success of a\ndoubtful undertaking. See also PRANCING LAMB.\n\nLAMP.--This sign provides an assurance of good success in business. See\nalso STREET LAMP.\n\nLANTERN.--This shows that fear and doubt will mar your happiness and\nprogress. See also CHINESE LANTERN.\n\nLAUREL.--This tree points to power, ability and health.\n\nLEAVES.--Prosperous results of your diligence, new friends, and\nsatisfaction.\n\nLEEK.--This implies that you are anxious to come to the root of some\nmatter of which at present you have only an inkling; with good signs\naround, you may expect to come to a satisfactory understanding.\n\nLEG.--This foretells a successful race with fortune.\n\nLEG OF MUTTON.--Depression and pecuniary worries is the meaning of this\nsign.\n\nLEOPARD.--This animal foreshows triumph over adverse circumstances or an\nevil report; two leopards, fortune and misfortune following each other\nin quick succession.\n\nLETTERS.--These are shown by oblong or square tea-leaves, initials near\ngive the name of the writer; with dots around they will contain money.\n\nLETTUCE.--This shows sleeplessness, possibly from the receiving of some\nperturbing news.\n\nLIGHTHOUSE.--A good sign of security and of light on your path whenever\nit is most needed; if crooked or broken, disaster at sea.\n\nLIGHTNING.--Forked lightning seen in a zig-zag up the side of the cup\nshows bad weather conditions; if near the figure of a man or woman, it\nmay possibly indicate death from lightning or electrical mechanism; if\nseen at the bottom of the cup and with a clear space indicating water,\nit would mean bad storms abroad causing damage and loss.\n\nLILAC.--This is an emblem of radiant happiness; joys shared with\nanother, with whom there is perfect oneness of purpose and love.\n\nLILY-OF-THE-VALLEY.--A fortunate omen of realisation, love, and\nmarriage. See also ARUM LILY, BELLADONNA LILY, MADONNA LILY, HARRISSI\nLILY, WATER LILY.\n\nLIMPETS.--These denote that you endeavour to wrest from others some\nvaluable secret which they possess, but without success; limpets are a\nsign of good luck to fishermen and promise a big haul of fish.\n\nLINES OF DOTS.--These indicate journeys and their probable length and\ndirection; to be read in connection with other signs of movement; wavy\nlines mean tiresome journeys or difficulties likely to be encountered;\nif the lines ascend sharply to the brim of the cup, a journey to a hilly\ncountry will be taken.\n\nLION.--One of the most fortunate symbols indicating high hopes and\nexcellent prospects, association with distinguished persons, honour, and\nfame.\n\nLIZARD.--This suggests treachery and the probability of a plot being\nlaid against you by false and deceitful friends.\n\nLOBSTER.--A pleasant event, or a good present, is shown by this symbol.\n\nLOCK AND KEY.--You are warned against the loss of something which you\nvalue.\n\nLOOKING-GLASS.--This implies a desire to know the truth, even if it be\nunpleasant to you.\n\nLORD MAYOR'S COACH.--You will receive a good offer from an unexpected\nquarter.\n\nLUTE.--This is a sign of a secret sadness of which those around you know\nnothing; to musicians, a good omen of success.\n\nLYNX.--To the married a bad omen of estrangement, possibly divorce; to\nothers it denotes treachery or episodes of a painful nature.\n\n\nM\n\nMACARONI.--This proclaims the sad fact that you must endeavour to make\nsixpence do the work of a shilling.\n\nMACE.--Promotion, a position of authority and achievement.\n\nMACHINE.--See AUTOMATIC MACHINE.\n\nMADONNA LILY.--This flower means perfection and peace, and the assurance\nof love and truth.\n\nMAGNET.--You will be drawn by an irresistible attraction towards someone\nfor whom you will eventually feel more dislike than affection.\n\nMAGNIFYING GLASS.--You are given to such exaggeration that it amounts to\nuntruthfulness.\n\nMAGNOLIA.--This tree brings calm and peaceful conditions after a time of\nunrest.\n\nMAGPIE.--\"One for sorrow, two for mirth, three for a wedding, four for a\nbirth\"; this ancient saying well explains the meaning of seeing magpies\nin the tea-leaves.\n\nMAHL STICK.--See ARTIST'S MAHL STICK.\n\nMALLET.--You will arrive at a wise conclusion in a difficult matter. See\nalso CROQUET MALLET.\n\nMALTESE CROSS.--You will emerge from one source of vexation or trouble\nonly to fall into another.\n\nMAN.--You may expect a visitor.\n\nMAN CARRYING A BURDEN.--An unhappy marriage or an unfortunate love\naffair.\n\nMAN CARRYING MACE.--This points to personal promotion or the advancement\nof someone dear to you.\n\nMAN SPEAKING FROM A PLATFORM.--Public news or developments which will\nspecially interest or concern you.\n\nMARROW.--See VEGETABLE MARROW.\n\nMARS.--This sign will often be seen, and indicates a courageous,\nenergetic nature, fond of exploits and freedom, and shows a capacity for\nstrenuous work; a fortunate symbol for a soldier.\n\nMASK.--For a lover, this predicts that unpleasant facts will come to\nlight, of which at present there is no suspicion, leading to an abrupt\nending of the love affair.\n\nMASS OF LEAVES.--Arrivals and departures about which there are little\ndifficulties.\n\nMAST.--This symbol must be read in connection with the surrounding\nsigns.\n\nMASTIFF.--This dog warns you of an unexpected emergency in which there\nis danger of your being overpowered by the arguments of those who are\nmasterful.\n\nMAYPOLE.--This shows that you find but little satisfaction in your\namusements and gaiety; for whilst you appear to enter into them in a\nlight-hearted manner, you are craving for further excitement.\n\nMAY TREE.--This signifies the receiving of a joyous message.\n\nMEAT.--A sign of financial worry.\n\nMEAT COVER.--An unpleasant emergency or discovery.\n\nMEDAL.--You will be rewarded for past industry by future prosperity.\n\nMEDICINE BOTTLE.--An unpleasant sign of illness.\n\nMEDLAR.--This tree predicts a condition of transient happiness.\n\nMEERSCHAUM PIPE.--You will be disturbed by some news from a man who has\nmuch influence in your life.\n\nMELON.--This means gratification and good news, and the deriving of much\npleasure from the appreciation of those whose good opinion is of value\nto you.\n\nMERCURY.--This planet is constantly seen in the tea-leaves and is a\nsymbol of ceaseless activity of striving to attain great things; it also\nindicates good business capacity.\n\nMERMAID.--To those associated with the sea, this is a warning of\nshipwreck or other peril.\n\nMERRYTHOUGHT.--The attainment of a wish or small pleasure.\n\nMICE.--These indicate danger of poverty through fraud or theft.\n\nMILK-CANS.--These show an agricultural enterprise that will be to your\nadvantage.\n\nMILK-CHURN.--A good emblem of future comfort and increased happiness.\n\nMILKING-STOOL.--A new venture about which you will feel somewhat dubious\nbut which with care will be carried out successfully.\n\nMINE-SHAFT.--This is a hopeful sign of coming peace after a time of\ndiscontent amongst miners, or a coal strike.\n\nMIRROR.--Prophetic dreams; a love of truth.\n\nMISTLETOE.--This signifies that a cherished hope is unlikely to be\nfulfilled, or at any rate it will only be after many months have passed,\nand when you have become weary of waiting.\n\nMITRE.--A prediction of honour and promotion for a clergyman.\n\nMONK.--Religious controversy and disturbances.\n\nMONKEY.--This is an unpleasant indication that ugly rumours and scandal\nwill be spread about you or yours; sometimes public notoriety; with\nother signs, it foreshows grief and pain.\n\nMONKEY-ON-ORGAN.--Difficult circumstances and a hard struggle are the\nmeanings of this sign.\n\nMONKEY PUZZLE TREE.--A task lies before you which you will find hard,\nbut for which you will afterwards be rewarded by meeting with great\nsuccess.\n\nMONOGRAMS.--These will often be found in the tea-leaves and will\nindicate someone of much importance in your life, whose initials are\nshown by the monogram.\n\nMONUMENT.--Someone in whose career you are much interested will rise to\nfame.\n\nMOON.--A crescent moon denotes good news, fortune, and romance; for a\nman it predicts public recognition and honour.\n\nMORTAR.--A sign of gloom, illness, emergencies.\n\nMOTOR CAR.--Short journeys by road or rail, visits from friends; with\nother signs, some increase of fortune may be expected.\n\nMOUNTAIN.--This gives promise of the realisation of a great ambition and\nof the influence of powerful friends; many mountains indicate\nobstructions and sometimes powerful enemies in your career.\n\nMOUNTED HORSEMAN.--A sign of good friends, luck, and advantageous\noffers.\n\nMOUSE.--This invariably indicates that there is need for a trap to be\nset; it also gives warning that domestic worries are to be expected.\n\nMUFF.--This implies caprice and ostentation.\n\nMUG.--This symbol predicts a merry meeting.\n\nMUSHROOM.--This predicts that you will take a small risk and achieve a\ngreat success; to lovers, it foreshows a quarrel and possibly a broken\nengagement.\n\nMUSIC CONDUCTOR.--A good sign to a musician; to others it suggests that\nenthusiasm and good spirits will carry them through life very happily.\n\nMUTTON CHOP.--Fruitless discussion or indisposition are the meanings of\nthis sign. See also LEG OF MUTTON.\n\nMYRTLE TREE.--This speaks of affection and peace; a declaration of love,\nand a happy marriage.\n\n\nN\n\nNAIL.--Toothache and painful dentistry are foreshown by this sign.\n\nNAMES.--To see the name of a person or place, signifies events occurring\nin connection with such person or place; if good symbols appear,\npleasant happenings may be expected; if gloomy signs, then trouble will\narise associated with the name seen.\n\nNARCISSUS.--This flower shows sentiment and coming joy; also that some\nnew idea will unfold itself to you in the spring and will prove to be of\nmuch advantage to you.\n\nNATIVE WITH \"TOM-TOM\".--This foreshows news of disturbance in India or\nnews of a personal nature which will cause anxiety.\n\nNECKLACE.--A good present or money; a broken necklace shows that you\nwill break a bond which you have grown to feel is unendurable.\n\nNEEDLES.--These denote mischief and deceit; sometimes disappointment in\nlove.\n\nNEPTUNE.--This planetary symbol indicates a condition of chaos.\n\nNEST.--See BIRD'S NEST, EAGLE'S NEST.\n\nNET.--Toil or anxiety followed by amazing achievement and good fortune.\n\nNINEPINS.--These show a mind determined to gain success whatever the\ncost in drudgery.\n\nNOSE.--A large nose denotes dissipation; a crooked one shows a wayward\nand untrustworthy character; a long, thin nose implies that you change\nyour ideas on various subjects and alter your mode of life in accordance\nwith your new ideas.\n\nNOSEGAY.--See BOUQUET.\n\nNOTICE-BOARD.--Your attention will be called to some fact which it will\nbe to your advantage to learn.\n\nNUMBERS.--These are frequently found in the tea-leaves, and must be read\nin conjunction with surrounding symbols. If the consultant has a lucky\nnumber, and this appears with good signs, it promises much success. An\nunlucky number with gloomy signs predicts misfortune. A journey with a\nfive near obviously points out that it will be taken in five days, or\nweeks, and so on. Ten dots, close together, means ten pounds or\nshillings, according to the size and number of the dots. Numbers with\nthe symbol of a legacy show the amount to be expected.\n\nNUN.--This is a sign that you will probably remain unmarried through\nyour own choice; to the married it implies unjust suspicion.\n\nNURSE.--A nurse in uniform usually foretells illness for yourself or for\nsomeone dear to you.\n\nNUT-CRACKERS.--This portends that you will strive to solve a difficult\nproblem, the result of which is of much importance to you.\n\nNUTS.--Gratified ambition and wealth are indicated by nuts.\n\n\nO\n\nOAK TREE.--This is a good omen of wealth, strength, and attainment of\ncherished hopes; for a lover, it predicts happiness and prosperity in\nmarriage.\n\nOAR.--Sport; amusements; a broken oar denotes recklessness for which you\nwill pay dearly; for a lover or husband, this means affliction.\n\nOBELISK.--This foreshows honour and wealth.\n\nOIL-CAN.--Work and worry are foretold by this sign.\n\nONIONS.--You may expect that something which you supposed was a secret\nwill be discovered, possibly through treacherous friends.\n\nOPERA-GLASSES.--You are in danger of losing the confidence of your\nfriends because of your inquisitive questions.\n\nORCHIDS.--These give a pleasing assurance of coming good fortune and a\nlife of ease and wealth.\n\nORGAN.--This must be read in connection with other signs around it;\nsometimes it means a wedding, death, or realised ambition; to a\nmusician, it is a good omen of achievement. See also BARREL ORGAN.\n\nOSTRICH.--This symbol points to achievement in creative work; if\nrunning, you may look for startling news and rumours of public\nupheavals.\n\nOTTER.--You must expect to receive a disagreeable shock through some\nunpleasant spite on the part of those of whom you have always thought\nwell, and regarded as loyal and affectionate friends.\n\nOVERCOAT.--You may expect to have changes in your life and become of\nmuch importance.\n\nOWL.--A bad omen of illness, misfortune, and poverty; if flying, you\nwill receive tidings of grief; to lovers this bird is a symbol of bad\nnews or unpleasant rumours; to those who are contemplating new work or\nenterprise the owl should be regarded as a warning to proceed with\ncaution.\n\nOX.--An ox in his stall implies hospitality, domestic peace and\nabundance.\n\nOYSTERS.--These are a sign of enjoyment and expensive tastes, also that\nyou will appreciate the pleasures of life more in your later years than\nin your youthful days.\n\n\nP\n\nPADLOCK.--An open padlock means a surprise; a closed one, a need for\nprecaution.\n\nPAGODA.--Foreign travels.\n\nPAIL.--You will be called upon to undertake a variety of things which\nyou dislike.\n\nPAILS ON YOKE.--In the future you may hope for compensation for past\ntrials and weariness.\n\nPALACE.--This portends good fortune and favours.\n\nPALETTE.--A hopeful sign of success to an artist or to those associated\nwith one; to others, it suggests a need for deliberation and advice\nbefore embarking upon a new work or enterprise.\n\nPALM TREE.--This is a symbol of honour, fame, and victory; increase of\nwealth, love, and marriage.\n\nPAMPAS GRASS.--This is a sign that you will make a pathetic endeavour to\nfind happiness in a life which is cast in a somewhat dreary lot.\n\nPAN AND HIS PIPES.--A most cheering symbol which gives an assurance of\nhappiness, future prosperity, and delight.\n\nPANSY.--This flower is a symbol of understanding, modesty, and\ncontentment; it is also a pleasant indication of faithful friends and\nhappy days.\n\nPANTHER.--You may expect to be shocked at the treacherous behaviour of a\nfriend whom you had always regarded as honourable.\n\nPARADISE.--See BIRD OF PARADISE.\n\nPARALLEL LINES.--These predict well-thought-out and smoothly running\nplans.\n\nPARCELS.--These are shown by thick, square or round leaves.\n\nPARROT.--This is a sign of foreign travel, the making of many friends,\nand much mental energy; sometimes it gives a hint that there is an\ninclination to gossip and spread scandal.\n\nPARSLEY.--Small events will bring you satisfaction.\n\nPEACOCK.--A sign of the acquisition of property; a prosperous and happy\nmarriage; with other signs, an unfortunate friendship.\n\nPEAKED CAP.--The arrival of a male visitor.\n\nPEARS.--Improved social condition and other advantages; this fruit\nbrings success to a business man and to a woman a rich husband; one pear\nsignifies a birth or new plans.\n\nPEDESTRIAN.--An important appointment or urgent business.\n\nPELICAN.--This bird is a symbol of loneliness, separation, and yearning\nfor the unattainable; if it is flying you will receive news from those\nwho are far away in isolated parts of the world.\n\nPEN.--See QUILL PEN.\n\nPENGUIN.--This strange bird indicates interesting news of expeditions\nand discoveries in the northern regions.\n\nPENKNIFE.--This is an unfortunate symbol of enmity, disloyalty, and\njealousy.\n\nPEONIES.--You will probably be called upon to make a decision of much\nimportance before another summer is past; broken peonies predict that\nyou may possibly throw away your chance of happiness by coming to a\nwrong conclusion.\n\nPEPPER-POT.--This means vexation and unreasonable irritation which you\nwill endeavour to conceal.\n\nPERAMBULATOR.--News of a birth.\n\nPESTLE.--A sign of decisive measures; a remedy for a grievance or an\nill.\n\nPHEASANT.--Good fortune; new friends; if flying, speedy and propitious\nnews.\n\nPIANO.--This is a sign that you will make the most of your opportunities\nand will gain that for which you have aimed; to musicians, a sign of\nadvancement.\n\nPICKAXE.--This sign proclaims labour troubles and strikes.\n\nPIG.--This assures you of gain and success in agricultural interests; it\nalso denotes that you may expect a present of money or a legacy.\n\nPIGEONS.--These show reconciliation with someone dear to you from whom\nyou have been estranged; if flying, important and pleasant news is on\nits way; if stationary, delay in the arrival of important news.\n\nPILLAR.--A symbol of strength, protection from danger, and of good and\npowerful friends; a broken pillar predicts sorrow and despair.\n\nPILLAR BOX.--Important or specially interesting correspondence is the\nmeaning of this sign.\n\n\nPINCERS.--A painful experience; an injury; toothache.\n\nPINCUSHION.--Thrift, order, and a well-regulated household.\n\nPINEAPPLE.--A pleasing indication of wealth, rich friends, and good\npresents.\n\nPINE TREES.--Happiness followed by an aftermath of regret.\n\nPIPE.--A visit from a dear friend; several pipes foreshow news from a\nman who is much in your thoughts. See also MEERSCHAUM PIPE, PAN AND HIS\nPIPES.\n\nPISTOL.--An ominous warning of disaster; with other bad signs, of a\nviolent death.\n\nPITCHER.--This shows an endeavour to relieve a rather dull and\nmonotonous life, by throwing your energy into somewhat unnecessary work.\n\nPITCHFORK.--A sign that you are apt to stir up feud, and make peace and\nquiet impossible.\n\nPLATE.--For the present, you will merely jog along in an ordinary way.\n\nPLAYING CARDS.--See ACE OF CLUBS, ACE OF DIAMONDS, ACE OF HEARTS, and\nACE OF SPADES.\n\nPLOUGH.--You must expect to go through toil and frustration before you\nfinally conquer your difficulties and achieve triumph.\n\nPLUM PUDDING.--This denotes festivity and cheerfulness.\n\nPLUMS.--These foretell a new development of plans.\n\nPOLAR BEAR.--This sign means a journey to a cold climate.\n\nPOLICEMAN.--This tells you to beware of theft and underhand practices;\nwith other signs, it would indicate trouble probably caused by those\nwith whom you are most closely associated.\n\nPOPE.--Unexpected gain and future happiness are foretold by this sign.\n\nPOPPY.--This flower is significant of a pleasant occurrence in the early\nsummer.\n\nPORTER AND TRUCK.--This indicates a pending journey or the arrival of a\ntraveller.\n\nPOST.--This signifies a formidable obstacle; if broken, that you will\nencounter a storm of opposition to your plan.\n\nPOSTMAN.--Important and profitable news.\n\nPOT.--See COFFEE POT.\n\nPOTATO.--You will have need of patience in your daily life, and will\nsometimes be troubled by pecuniary difficulties.\n\nPRANCING LAMB.--This is a symbol of trouble which will have beneficial\nresults and will lead to contentment and happiness.\n\nPRAWNS.--These bring pleasures, presents and satisfactory arrangements.\n\nPRINCE OF WALES' PLUMES.--This is a symbol of pleasant events, stirring\ntopics and sometimes of personal honour and distinction.\n\nPUDDING.--See PLUM PUDDING.\n\nPUFFIN.--This bird denotes timidity and a desire for solitude; if\nflying, news from abroad.\n\nPULPIT.--A love of talking and a dislike to listening is the meaning of\nthis symbol.\n\nPUMP.--Your own efforts will bring about a fortunate result.\n\nPUNCH-AND-JUDY.--You will read, or hear, of a sensational case in\nmarried life.\n\nPURSE.--This cautions you against theft, or carelessness that may lead\nto losing money.\n\nPYRAMIDS.--These foreshow attainment to honour, fame and wealth.\n\n\nQ\n\nQUEEN.--A queen upon her throne indicates security, peace, and honour;\nsometimes the attainment to a high position through powerful friends.\n\nQUERY.--This shows doubt, indecision; if this sign were seen with a\nletter the doubt would be with regard to some correspondence; if with a\njourney, uncertainty about it; and so on.\n\nQUILL PEN.--This shows that you may expect, before long, to sign your\nmaiden name for the last time in a marriage register; with other signs,\na legal document.\n\nQUOITS.--This sign indicates a journey to the country on pleasure.\n\n\nR\n\nRABBIT.--An indication of illness for a child; a dead rabbit means\ndomestic duties which will bore you, sometimes financial worry; several\nrabbits suggest that you must depend upon your own efforts for your\namusements and must be content with simple ones; a rabbit on its hind\nlegs predicts that a new plan or idea will bring you great success.\n\nRAG DOLL.--This implies a simplicity that sometimes verges on folly.\n\nRAILWAY SIGNAL.--This symbol may be seen at \"danger\" or \"all clear.\" Its\nmeaning must be read in accordance with other signs.\n\nRAM.--An unpleasant person whom you would do well to avoid is indicated\nby this sign.\n\nRAKE.--This implement denotes a persevering nature which should bring\nyou a liberal measure of success in whatever you undertake; it also\nindicates luck in speculation.\n\nRAT.--Treachery and other impending troubles, are foreshown by this\nunpleasant symbol.\n\nRAVEN.--This bird is an omen of gloom and despondency, disappointment in\nlove, separation, failure in work; it is also a symbol of death for the\naged.\n\nRAZOR.--Quarrels, also a warning against interference in other people's\naffairs; to lovers this sign foretells disagreement and separation.\n\nRED-HOT POKER.--This flower suggests that you are likely to bring\nyourself within the range of unpleasant criticism by your flaunting\nmanner.\n\nREPTILE.--This is a bad omen of coming misfortune, treachery, or\nillness.\n\nRHINOCEROS.--This animal denotes a risky proceeding into which you\nplunge without hesitation, although your friends and relations will try\nto persuade you to give up your scheme, but your indifference to the\nopinion of others prevents any chance of their being successful.\n\nRIDER.--This brings good news from overseas of business and financial\naffairs.\n\nRIFLE.--Strife and calamity are shown by this sign.\n\nRING.--With dots around, a contract or a business transaction; with the\nfigures of a man and woman, an engagement or wedding is foretold.\n\nRIVER.--A sign of trouble and perplexity, sometimes illness and\nbereavement.\n\nROBIN.--A symbol of much good fortune, loyal friends, and happiness in\nlove.\n\nROCKET.--This foretells joy and gladness at some event about to happen.\n\nROCKING CHAIR.--This indicates contemplation of a new idea or scheme\nabout which you are somewhat doubtful.\n\nROCKING HORSE.--Happy associations will be renewed; pleasure with\nchildren.\n\nROCKS.--These prepare you for alarms and agitation, but if good signs\nappear, you will eventually find a smooth path through your fife.\n\nROLLER.--See GARDEN ROLLER.\n\nROLLING PIN.--This is an indication that you will be capable of\nsmoothing out your difficulties and will usually find an easy path in\nwhich to tread.\n\nROSE.--A token of good fortune, joy, and love.\n\nROSEMARY.--Memories of the past will mar your future.\n\nRUNNING FIGURES.--You may expect an emergency in which you will need to\nhave all your wits about you; sometimes this signifies urgent messages.\n\n\nS\n\nSACK.--This predicts an unlooked for event which will turn out to be\nmost fortunate.\n\nSADDLE.--The successful solving of a troublesome matter is the meaning\nof this sign.\n\nSAILOR.--You may expect news from overseas of an interesting nature.\n\nSALMON JUMPING IN A POOL.--This is a fortunate sign of propitious news\nwhich will mean a great deal to you.\n\nSANDWICH MAN.--After a time of irksome tasks and pecuniary worry, you\nwill be rewarded by a time of ease and wealth.\n\nSAUCEPAN.--This is an indication that many troubles will befall you, and\nyour courage will be tested in meeting them.\n\nSAUSAGES.--These show complaints or affliction.\n\nSAW.--Interference which will bring a good deal of trouble upon you, is\nsignified by a saw.\n\nSCAFFOLD.--This signifies that you will enter into a rash speculation.\n\nSCALES.--This symbol stands for legal proceedings.\n\nSCARECROW.--This warns you to avoid interfering in the private affairs\nof others, or you may find that you will receive the cold shoulder from\nthem.\n\nSCEPTRE.--This is a fortunate sign of distinction and honour.\n\nSCIMITAR.--You will hear of murders, horrible treachery, and riots.\n\nSCISSORS.--An unlucky sign of friction between friends; disputing and\ndisagreeableness with married couples; quarrels between lovers; trouble\nin business.\n\nSCOOP.--See COAL SCOOP.\n\nSCREW.--With a little ingenuity and perseverance, you will arrive at\nthat for which you aim.\n\nSCREW-SPANNER.--Troublesome affairs and vexations are before you.\n\nSCUTTLE.--See COAL SCUTTLE.\n\nSCYTHE.--This sign foreshows grief and pain.\n\nSEAGULL.--A sign of storms; if flying, news from abroad.\n\nSEAKALE.--A satisfactory conclusion to a vexed question is the meaning\nof this symbol.\n\nSEAL.--An indication that a considerable amount of patience will be\nnecessary before your hopes are realised, but eventually you will gain\nsuccess and wealth.\n\nSEALING-WAX.--Theoretically you are wise, but you seldom bring your\nwisdom to bear on practical matters.\n\nSEE-SAW.--Unless you endeavour to become more decisive and reliable, you\nwill lose any good opportunities which may come your way.\n\nSEAWEED.--This denotes a joy in the past of which only the memory\nremains.\n\nSHAMROCK.--A sign of good luck.\n\nSHARK.--An ominous sign of death.\n\nSHAVING-BRUSH.--This sign suggests that you are apt to turn molehills\ninto mountains.\n\nSHEEP.--To landowners or those engaged in any agricultural pursuits\nsheep are an omen of success and prosperous dealing; to others this sign\nimplies that they will receive assistance from unexpected quarters.\n\nSHELL.--Good luck from an unexpected source; with other signs, a visit\nto the seaside.\n\nSHEPHERD.--The appearance of this symbol warns you against taking\nunnecessary risks in all matters.\n\nSHIP.--News from distant lands; a successful journey; a voyage.\n\nSHIRT.--This sign is considered an omen of good fortune.\n\nSHOES.--These indicate speedy new arrangements which are likely to turn\nout extremely well.\n\nSHRIMPING NET.--Pleasures and amusements, unconventionality, and good\nspirits.\n\nSHUTTERS.--This sign proclaims the fact that there is need for secrecy,\nand that there may be things in your life of which you trust nothing\nwill be known.\n\nSICKLE.--A sign that you will experience sorrow and pain through the\ncallous behaviour of someone you love.\n\nSIGNPOST.--This symbol must be read in conjunction with surrounding\nsymbols; it usually emphasises the importance of other signs; a broken\nsignpost indicates, that you take a wrong turning in your life and\nafterwards have much cause to regret it.\n\nSKELETON.--This implies a feeling of disgust at some information which\nis told to you and which you are asked not to reveal.\n\nSKIPPING ROPE.--Pleasure with children and popularity with them.\n\nSLEIGH.--A spell of cold weather; an interesting event or piece of news\nto be expected in the winter.\n\nSLUG.--Petty annoyances; bad weather.\n\nSNAIL.--This is a sign of infidelity; several snails, that mischief is\ngoing on around you of which you are unaware.\n\nSNAKE.--This is an unpleasant sign of treachery, disloyalty, and hidden\ndanger, sometimes caused by those whom you least suspect; if its head is\nraised, injury by the malice of a man is predicted; it is also an\nindication of misfortune and illness.\n\nSNIPE.--This bird signifies the discovery of a useful fact; if flying,\nhasty news of a great friend.\n\nSNOWDROPS.--These are a symbol of youth and innocence; this sign may\npoint to some event affecting you and yours which will probably take\nplace about February; if seen in a cross it would foreshow the death of\nan infant or young child.\n\nSOAP.--Cakes or blocks of soap predict temporary trouble in business.\n\nSOAP BUBBLES.--See CHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.\n\nSOFA.--This foreshows indisposition or a small illness, sometimes\ndisturbed nights or emergencies.\n\nSOLDIER.--This signifies that you may count upon the loyalty and\naffection of your friends; sometimes it indicates that you may expect\nspeedy news of a soldier.\n\nSOLOMON'S SEAL.--This plant is a symbol of understanding, devotion, and\ncoming joy.\n\nSOUP LADLE.--It will be through the assistance of others that you will\narrive at success.\n\nSOUP TUREEN.--To the mature, this symbol points to a return of good\nfortune; to the young, a small illness and loss of appetite.\n\nSPADE.--This means toil, care, unrest, disappointment, and failure. See\nACE OF SPADES.\n\nSPANNER.--See SCREW SPANNER.\n\nSPHINX.--This denotes that your hopes will be set on things far beyond\nyour reach, and that as nothing but the very best in life has any\nattraction for you, it is improbable that you will ever attain to\ncomplete happiness.\n\nSPIDER.--You may expect to receive an inheritance; with other signs,\nthat you will be triumphant in disputed will or money settlement;\nseveral spiders foretell profitable transactions, sometimes a heritage\nof much wealth.\n\nSPUR.--This symbol foretells that as the result of endurance and honest\nlabour you will attain to honour.\n\nSQUARE.--This formed of dotted lines indicates perplexity and dismay,\nand endeavour to extricate yourself from an embarrassing situation.\n\nSQUIRREL.--This is a sign of contentment and cheerfulness; although you\nmay never be rich you will be loved by those around you and, on the\nwhole, will lead a happy life.\n\nSTAR.--A lucky sign; if surrounded by dots, wealth and honour are\nforetold.\n\nSTEAMER.--A voyage, news from overseas, interesting events, according to\nother signs.\n\nSTEEPLE.--This denotes misfortune, bad luck; if it is crooked or bending\nit foreshows a coming disaster or crushing blow to your hope.\n\nSTEPS.--Unaccustomed work which will fall to your lot as a result of the\nillness of someone with whom you work or associate.\n\nSTILE.--With a small amount of perception you will arrive at a right\nconclusion.\n\nSTILTS.--These show a desire to appear different in the eyes of your\nfriends from that which you really are, and you will often fail in an\neffort to keep up this subterfuge.\n\nSTOCKS.--These sweet scented flowers foreshow an unexpected happiness\nwith someone whom you have not seen for a long while.\n\nSTOCKINGS.--A present received or given is the meaning of this symbol.\n\nSTONES.--Little worries and vexations.\n\nSTOOL.--A large stool is a symbol of honour; a small one signifies that\nyour success in life will be meagre.\n\nSTORK.--In summer, this bird tells you to beware of robbery or fraud; in\nwinter, prepare for bad weather and a great misfortune; a stork flying\npredicts that whilst you hesitate in coming to a decision, a profitable\nchance is lost, the news of which will speedily reach you.\n\nSTOVE.--This symbol calls attention to the fact that trials and\ntribulations await you.\n\nSTRAW.--A bundle of straw foretells gain through industry.\n\nSTRAWBERRIES.--Pleasure and the gratification of your wishes are shown\nby this fruit.\n\nSTRAW HAT.--Modesty and simple pleasures.\n\nSTREET LAMP.--This is a sign of a foolish desire to draw attention to\nyourself.\n\nSTUD.--See COLLAR STUD.\n\nSTUFFED BIRDS.--A discovery that something upon which you had set your\nheart proves unsatisfying.\n\nSUBMARINE.--Swiftly arriving news or events; sometimes the disclosure of\na secret which will be of much personal value to you.\n\nSUN.--This promises happiness, health, success in love, prosperity, and\nthe beneficial discovery of secrets.\n\nSUN BONNET.--A sign of originality, personal charm and attraction,\nsometimes coquetry.\n\nSUNDIAL.--You are warned to take heed as to the way in which you spend\nyour time.\n\nSUNFLOWER.--This flower proclaims learning and a satisfactory conclusion\nin matters which are most interesting to you; it also implies that you\nmay reasonably expect a scheme to work out greatly to your advantage.\n\nSUSPENDERS.--These show precaution.\n\nSUSPENSION BRIDGE.--A venture in which much is at stake but after a time\nof anxiety you arrive at final triumph.\n\nSWALLOW.--A journey with a happy result; if flying, joyful tidings from\nsomeone you love; if several swallows are flying, they indicate a\njourney to a warm climate under very pleasant conditions.\n\nSWAN.--This bird is significant of tribulation, troublesome conditions\nin the home, and sometimes of separation from those whom you love.\n\nSWEEP.--The performing of an urgent disagreeable business will shortly\nfall to your lot.\n\nSWEET WILLIAM.--This flower signifies that happiness in the past has\ntinged your future with sadness.\n\nSWIMMING.--A brave endeavour to overcome your fear of an undertaking\nwhich must be faced.\n\nSWING-BOAT.--By an act of folly, you forfeit the good opinion of someone\nwith whom you most desire to be on terms of friendship.\n\nSWORD.--This is a sign of danger, sudden illness, or even death; it also\nbetokens slander and dangerous gossip; to lovers it is a bad omen of\nquarrels; a sword in its sheath shows honour and glory for someone dear\nto you; a broken sword predicts the triumph of an enemy.\n\n\nT\n\nTABLE.--This means suggestions and consultation; note the subject from\nthe surrounding signs.\n\nTAMBOURINE.--A symbol of lighthearted gaiety which will follow a time of\ngloom or worry. See also CHILD WITH TAMBOURINE.\n\nTEA COSY.--To the unmarried, this is a sign that they will probably\nremain single; to the married, affection and comfort in the small things\nof life.\n\nTEA-CUP AND SAUCER.--You may expect to hear something of much interest\nand pleasure in your \"fortune.\"\n\nTEETH.--These call attention to the fact that probably a visit to the\ndentist is required.\n\nTELEGRAPH POST.--Hasty news by telephone or telegram.\n\nTELEGRAPH WIRES.--You will transact important business by telephone or\ntelegram.\n\nTELEPHONE.--You will be put to considerable inconvenience through\nforgetfulness.\n\nTELESCOPE.--This predicts the probability of trouble with your eyesight.\n\nTENNIS NET.--This shows pleasures and social entertainments.\n\nTENT.--A symbol of travel.\n\nTHIMBLE.--For a girl, this symbol implies that she will probably never\nmarry; to the married, it predicts changes in the household.\n\nTHISTLE.--This is a pleasant sign of strength, endurance, and affection;\nit also shows a desire to remove obstacles from the path of those who\nare in difficulties.\n\nTHRONE.--An empty throne denotes public misfortune. See also KING ON\nTHRONE.\n\nTHUMB.--A large and powerful thumb foretells an opportunity in which you\nprove yourself superior to those who hitherto somewhat despised you.\n\nTIGER.--You will be placed in a perilous position possibly through the\nbad behaviour or folly of those who should protect you.\n\nTIMBER.--Logs of timber are a sign of well-being and prosperity in your\naffairs.\n\nTIN TACKS.--An agreement about to be satisfactorily concluded.\n\nTOAD.--You may expect deceit and the discovery of disagreeable facts;\nthis sign should caution you to be on your guard, for malicious talking\ncauses much discomfort and may separate the best of friends.\n\nTOADSTOOL.--You are warned against making rash and unguarded statements,\na bad habit of gossiping and encouraging scandal.\n\nTOM-TOM.--See NATIVE WITH TOM-TOM.\n\nTOMATOES GROWING.--An increase of worldly goods is foreshown by this\nsign.\n\nTOMBSTONE.--This sign must be judged in accordance with other symbols\naround it.\n\nTONGS.--A pair of firetongs indicates anxiety and disturbance in the\nhome.\n\nTONGUE.--This signifies that unless you amend you will make mischief by\nyour indiscreet and unkind words.\n\nTOOTH.--One large tooth is a symbol of bereavement.\n\nTOPIARY WORK.--Trees and hedges cut into the forms of birds, animals,\netc., are often to be seen in the tea-leaves; this sign assures you of\nthe fact that those things for which you must wait longest are those\nwhich will give most joy.\n\nTORCH (FLAMING).--This is a hopeful symbol that some unexpected piece of\ngood fortune will come to you; it also indicates the discovery of an\nundeveloped talent.\n\nTORPEDO.--Acts of violence, disaster, or distressing news are the\nmeanings of this symbol.\n\nTORTOISE.--This means that you attempt that of which you have no\nknowledge.\n\nTOWER.--This predicts an advantageous opportunity through which you may\nrise to a good position in life.\n\nTOYS.--Pleasure with children.\n\nTRAIN.--Arrivals, removals, a journey.\n\nTRAM.--A roadway journey on business or pleasure.\n\nTRAM LINE.--This is indicated by two thin, straight lines which run near\ntogether up the side of the cup.\n\nTREES.--Good health and a pleasing assurance of coming prosperity and\nhappiness; if surrounded by dots an inheritance of property in the\ncountry is foreshown! See also CHESTNUT TREE, CHRISTMAS TREE, ELM TREE,\nOAK TREE, YEW TREE.\n\nTRIANGLE.--A fortunate meeting, good luck; sometimes an unexpected\nlegacy.\n\nTRIDENT.--A hopeful sign of honour and promotion to those in the Navy.\n\nTRIUMPHAL ARCH.--This is a fortunate omen of your future honour and high\nposition; a decorated arch foretells a wedding.\n\nTROWEL.--This gardening implement foretells good weather conditions;\nseen in the winter, it indicates unusual mildness. See also BRICKLAYER'S\nTROWEL.\n\nTROUSERS.--A pair of trousers foretells news of misfortune or sorrow for\na man.\n\nTRUE LOVER'S KNOT.--This is a happy omen of faithfulness in love, and of\nenduring friendship.\n\nTRUMPET.--This denotes good fortune to a musician; to others,\nentertainment, large assemblies of people, public speaking, sometimes\nthe setting on foot of new schemes.\n\nTRUNK.--Arrivals and departures.\n\nTUB.--You have evil to fear, is the meaning of this sign.\n\nTULIPS.--A symbol of radiance, health, and constancy in love and\nfriendship.\n\nTUNNEL.--This suggests that you are likely to make a wrong decision in\nan important matter.\n\nTURKEY.--That you are in danger of committing injurious follies is the\nmeaning of this sign.\n\nTURNIP.--The discovery of secrets and domestic quarrels are indicated by\nthis sign.\n\nTURNPIKE.--This implies that the reminiscences which you relate of the\npast are of more interest than your topics of the present.\n\nTURNSTILE.--This is a sign that you cleverly evade a disagreeable\nincident or unpleasant discussion without offending anyone.\n\nTURTLE.--This is significant of wealth and luxury.\n\nTWINS.--This is a symbol of sympathy and the perfection of happiness;\nwith other signs, news of the birth of twins.\n\n\nU\n\nUGLY FACES.--These show domestic quarrels or unpleasant news.\n\nUMBRELLA.--If it is open, bad weather and grumbling are foretold;\nclosed, a bit of bad luck which may be avoided.\n\nUNICORN.--This is an indication of scandal.\n\nURN.--A sign of illness.\n\n\nV\n\nVAMPIRE.--This brings a message of gloom and sorrow, or also means that\nyou await the expected news of a death.\n\nVAN.--This sign denotes an interesting experiment in which you succeed.\n\nVANITY BAG.--A large circle of admiring friends, and much pleasure with\nthem.\n\nVASE.--This sign brings you a promise of good health.\n\nVEGETABLE MARROW.--This means sad news or monetary losses through bad\ncrops, either at home or abroad.\n\nVEGETABLES.--These indicate toil, followed by a time of leisure and\naffluent circumstances.\n\nVENUS.--This planet which is sometimes seen in the tea-leaves, brings a\nmessage of peace or placidity.\n\nVISE.--A carpenter's vise signifies that you will need powerful\nassistance to extricate you from the mess in which you will find\nyourself through your folly.\n\nVIOLETS.--This is a symbol of high ideals and of the finding of\nhappiness in its fullest sense; several violets assure you of coming\njoy; if in the form of a cross, death is predicted.\n\nVIOLIN.--A symbol of coming success to a musician, and of pleasure and\nentertainment to others.\n\nVULTURE.--This bird is a forewarning of evil and unrest in various\nquarters of the globe; it also means a powerful enemy, sometimes death;\nif it flies, tragedy, sorrow, and tears are predicted.\n\n\nW\n\nWADING BOOT.--This is a warning to be cautious in swimming or boating,\nor you may meet with an accident; with other signs it denotes a home by\nthe sea.\n\nWAGGON.--This implies a fortunate outlook and changes for the better.\n\nWALKING STICK.--The arrival of a male visitor.\n\nWALL.--A thick, high wall denotes many difficulties in your life, and\nthat much courage will be needed to overcome them.\n\nWALLFLOWER.--This sign indicates the serious consideration of a new\nplan.\n\nWARMING PAN.--This is a sign of comfort in small things and domestic\npeace.\n\nWASPS.--These insects are significant of distress caused by the sharp\ntongues of those around you.\n\nWATER.--This is usually recognised by a clear space entirely free from\ntea-leaves at the bottom of the cup.\n\nWATER LILY.--This flower proclaims a declaration of love.\n\nWEASEL.--This animal shows cunning, and points to the sly behaviour of\nsomeone with whom you associate, and of whom you feel no suspicion.\n\nWEATHERCOCK.--This is a sign that you feel incapable of making up your\nmind definitely on any matter without first consulting each one with\nwhom you come in contact, and in the end you settle upon an entirely\ndifferent course of action.\n\nWEDDING CAKE.--This proclaims a speedy and prosperous marriage.\n\nWHALE.--A prediction of personal danger which may be averted if you are\ncautious.\n\nWHEEL.--This is symbolic of the wheel of fortune and foreshows a\nprosperous career or an inheritance of wealth; a broken wheel predicts a\nbad disappointment as to an expected increase of income or a legacy.\n\nWHEELBARROW.--This sign foretells a visit to the country or a pleasant\nrenewal of friendship with those who live in it.\n\nWHIP.--To a woman this sign foretells vexation and trials in her\nmarriage; for a man, it has much the same meaning, and severe\ndisappointment will befall him.\n\nWICKET GATE.--A small incident leads up to an important future event.\n\nWIDOW'S BONNET.--This sign must be read in connection with other\nsymbols; sometimes it foreshows grief and mourning, or if dots are round\nit, that a sum of money or a legacy may be expected from a widow.\n\nWINDMILL.--A sign that you may hope to succeed in a doubtful enterprise.\n\nWINDOW.--An open window shows that you are regarded with favour by many;\na closed one means embarrassment.\n\nWINE CUP.--Joy and realised ambition.\n\nWITCH ON BROOM.--You will be reproved by some of your friends who\nconsider that your interest in psychic matters is dangerous, but later\non you will be able to prove to their satisfaction that no harm has come\nto it.\n\nWITNESS BOX.--With bad signs around it, this would point to a personal\nmatter ending in a law court; otherwise, it denotes the taking place of\na trial in which you will feel special interest.\n\nWOLF.--Beware of an avaricious and hard-hearted neighbour or friend.\n\nWOMAN CARRYING A BURDEN.--An unhappy marriage or unfortunate love\naffair.\n\nWOMAN CARRYING A CHILD.--This shows distress, sometimes illness of\nsomeone dear to you, or sadness through separation.\n\nWOMAN HOLDING A MIRROR.--Clairvoyance and prediction of the future are\nsignified by this symbol.\n\nWOMEN.--With bad signs, several women mean scandal; otherwise, society.\n\nWOOD.--Much happiness with someone dear to you, a forthcoming wedding,\nor a fortunate and favourable event.\n\nWOODPECKER.--This bird brings pleasant news from those who live in the\ncountry.\n\nWORMS.--These warn you of coming misfortune, or of treachery, and evil\nby secret foes.\n\nWREATH.--This is a symbol of marriage, and of much happiness being in\nstore for you.\n\n\nY\n\nYACHT.--This is a favourable sign of increased wealth or happiness.\n\nYEW TREE.--You may expect to attain to a prominent position in life, and\nto receive a legacy from an aged relative or friend.\n\n\nZ\n\nZEBRA.--Something for which you have long waited is now within sight,\nbut you are likely to be disappointed, for you will find that it was not\nworth waiting for after all.\n\n\n\n\nSOME COMBINATIONS OF SYMBOLS AND THEIR MEANING\n\n\nACE OF DIAMONDS, A CIRCLE.--An engagement.\n\nACE OF DIAMONDS, A BUSH.--A pleasant invitation.\n\nACE OF CLUBS, AN OBELISK.--The offer of a good promotion.\n\nACE OF HEARTS, A TRAIN, A QUERY.--Indecision about a removal.\n\nACE OF HEARTS, AN URN, A BED.--Illness in the home.\n\nACE OF SPADES, BRICKS.--An advantageous offer from a large town.\n\nARM, A MYRTLE TREE, BIRD ON A PERCH.--New plans which bring about a\nmeeting with someone who will become all the world to you.\n\nARUM LILY, BELLS, A CHURCH.--A wedding.\n\nARUM LILY, A BAT, A BED, A WIDOW'S BONNET.--Death of a widow.\n\nBACON, PAGODA.--You will make your fortune abroad.\n\nBANANA, A PEACOCK, ACE OF HEARTS, TREES.--A happy marriage to someone of\nwealth and property in the country.\n\nBED, AN ENGINE, LABURNUM TREE.--A happy visit to the country in the\nspring.\n\nBESOM, UGLY FACES.--You will make many enemies by mischief-making.\n\nBONNET, A BOUQUET.--Marriage late in life.\n\nBRIDE, A CRESCENT MOON, A SWALLOW.--A journey which leads to a romantic\nlove affair.\n\nBRIDE, PENKNIFE, AN OWL.--Jealousy terminates an unhappy engagement.\n\nCAB, A SQUARE, A CAP.--A gloomy outlook brought about by one of the\nopposite sex.\n\nCAMEL (LADEN), A SMALL \"T,\" A COFFIN.--An unexpected fortune through the\ndeath of someone abroad whose name begins with \"T.\"\n\nCHAIN (ENTANGLED), ONION.--You will be placed in an embarrassing\nposition by the discovery of a secret.\n\nCHINESE LANTERN, A PAIR OF STILTS.--Pride brings about a fall.\n\nCLOVER, PLUMS, A BRIDGE.--A new and excellent opportunity will come your\nway necessitating a journey.\n\nDAFFODILS, THE SUN.--A joyful occurrence in the spring.\n\nDOVES, A BOOK, A BEEHIVE.--You will advance rapidly and become a\nwell-known writer.\n\nDUCK, A VEGETABLE MARROW.--Rash investments.\n\nEAGLE (FLYING), A STEAMER, A TENT, A LARGE \"E.\"--A position of honour in\nEgypt.\n\nEAR, A BEEHIVE, A TRUMPET.--Fame as a public speaker.\n\nFATE LINE, A SWORD IN ITS SHEATH, THE SIGN OF MARS, A CHAIN.--A happy\nfate awaits you, and marriage to a soldier who will rise to the top of\nthe tree in his profession.\n\nFROG, A FISH, A SHIP, A LARGE \"C.\"--Emigration to Canada.\n\nGOAT, A RUNNING FIGURE, A LAMB.--There need be no doubt as to the\nsuccessful outcome of your venture.\n\nGRASSHOPPERS, A SLEIGH, A WREATH OF ASTERS.--Death of an elderly friend\nor relative in the winter.\n\nKEY, A FLAMING TORCH.--Some discovery or the development of a patent\nleads to your becoming famous.\n\nKING ON HIS THRONE, AN EAGLE IN A CAGE, A MACE.--An important public\nceremony in which you take a part.\n\nLADDER, RING, A MAN AND A WOMAN.--Marriage will be the means of\nadvancement and good fortune.\n\nLADDER, A PALETTE.--Attainment to a position of honour as an artist.\n\nLADDER, THE SYMBOL OF MARS.--A most fortunate career as a soldier.\n\nLION, A LUTE.--Rising to the top of the tree, as a musician, is assured\nby these symbols.\n\nLION, A MAN SPEAKING FROM A PLATFORM.--Great success in a public career\nand the attaining to an influential position.\n\nLION, A MAN BESIDE A PESTLE AND MORTAR.--Excellent prospects and fame as\na doctor.\n\nLIZARD, A PEAKED CAP.--An expected visitor is not to be trusted.\n\nMACE, A MALLET.--Through wisdom and clear judgment you will rise to a\nposition of authority.\n\nMAN CARRYING A BURDEN, A PAIR OF SCISSORS, A MUSHROOM.--Quarrels in an\nunhappy love affair ending in a broken engagement.\n\nMAGNET, A MEAT COVER.--An unpleasant discovery leads to the abrupt\nending of an infatuation.\n\nNAIL, A PAIR OF PINCERS.--A visit to the dentist and the removal of a\ntooth.\n\nNOTICE-BOARD, A LEEK, AN OPEN PADLOCK.--In a surprising manner you will\nget the information for which you are seeking.\n\nONIONS, AN OTTER.--Those in whom you trusted have betrayed your\nconfidence and divulged a secret.\n\nOWL, A PAIL.--Loss of income will necessitate your undertaking\ndistasteful work.\n\nPAGODA, A PALM TREE, WATER.--A voyage to a warm climate under very happy\nconditions.\n\nPESTLE AND MORTAR, A WALKING STICK.--Illness and the arrival of the\ndoctor.\n\nPULPIT, OPERA GLASSES.--Those who weary others by undue curiosity will\nalways remain in ignorance.\n\nQUERY, A LETTER, INITIAL \"B,\" A GRAVE STONE.--You will be consulted as\nto the erecting of a headstone on the grave of a relative or friend.\n\nQUILL PEN, LILIES OF THE VALLEY, AN ORGAN.--Great happiness through\nmarriage.\n\nRABBIT, AN ARROW, A LARGE LETTER \"L,\" A DAGGER.--News of severe illness\nand a probable operation for a child who lives in London.\n\nRHINOCEROS, AN OVERCOAT, A STEAMER, A LARGE LETTER \"I.\"--The undertaking\nof a somewhat hazardous enterprise necessitates a voyage to India;\nthrough this much will happen which will eventually lead to your\nbecoming famous.\n\nROCKET, A PEAR, A SNOWDROP.--News of a birth of which you may expect to\nhear in February.\n\nROCKING CHAIR, A PEDESTRIAN, A MUSHROOM.--Deliberation over important\nmatters brings you to the conclusion that a great venture, which may\nmean enormous gain, is worth a small risk, and success will await you.\n\nSAILOR, A FLYING SWALLOW, A TRIDENT, A RING.--Happy news of good\npromotion for a sailor and a proposal of marriage.\n\nSCAFFOLD, LEG OF MUTTON.--Gambling or speculation will bring you to\npoverty unless you pay heed to this warning.\n\nSHARK, A PISTOL, A FLYING SEAGULL.--News from abroad of a tragic death.\n\nSNAKE, A RAM, A WOMAN, A WIDOW'S BONNET.--Overwhelming evidence against\nsome widow who is a dangerous enemy.\n\nSOFA, A SLEIGH.--A cold in the head or a chill.\n\nSWORD, A RING, A MAN, A WOMAN, A TOAD.--Separation of lovers brought\nabout by slander and malicious talk.\n\nTABLE, A QUILL PEN, A CAT, A RING WITH DOTS AROUND.--Legal business\nover money matters which leads to family quarrels.\n\nTHRONE, AN OSTRICH RUNNING, A FLYING SEAGULL, A FLAG.--Serious news from\nabroad of disturbances and rebellion.\n\nTRAM LINES, A BUILDING WITH DOTS AROUND IT, A PURSE.--You will take a\nroadway journey to a bank and are warned to beware of pickpockets.\n\nURN, HOSPITAL NURSE, A MAN, A LARGE HEART.--Serious illness affecting\nthe heart is predicted for a man.\n\nVEGETABLE MARROW, A STEAMER, NATIVE WITH \"TOM-TOM,\" A BROKEN\nPILLAR.--Distressing news of misfortune for someone dear to you in\nIndia.\n\nVIOLET, A WATER LILY, A ROBIN, A CRESCENT MOON, A RING.--A romantic love\naffair which ends in a happy marriage taking place in the early spring.\n\nWADING BOOT, THE SIGN OF NEPTUNE, SEVERAL PENGUINS, A MAST.--News of a\ndisaster in the North Sea.\n\nWIDOW'S BONNET, A PIG, A DOTTED CIRCLE, THE FIGURES \"100.\"--A small\nlegacy of a hundred pounds may be expected from a widow.\n\nWOODPECKER, TREES, A ROSE, A MAN.--A prospective visit to the country in\nthe summer, when you will meet with someone who will become very dear to\nyou.\n\nYEW TREE, AN OPEN PADLOCK, A WALLFLOWER, A PINEAPPLE.--A new plan of\nlife is made necessary as the result of an unexpected inheritance of\nmuch wealth.\n\nSOME EXAMPLE CUPS WITH THEIR INTERPRETATIONS\n\nThe following twenty illustrations are photographs of cups which on\nvarious occasions have been turned by consultants and interpreted by a\nseer. The student will find these of much practical value in learning\nwhat symbols to look for, and how to discern them clearly as the cup is\nturned about in the hand.\n\nThe divination of each cup should be carefully studied with its\nillustration; by this means the student will be enabled to grasp the\nprinciples upon which to form a judgment of the cup as a whole.\n\nHaving mastered this, the knowledge gained can be supplemented by\nreference to the alphabetical Dictionary of Symbols and Their Meanings\nin the previous chapter.\n\nTo study the illustrations and their descriptions correctly, the former\nmust be turned about and about until each symbol has been identified.\n\n\n\n\nTWENTY ILLUSTRATIONS\n\nWITH THEIR INTERPRETATIONS\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE I\n\n\nThe most noticeable feature of this cup is the clear evidence given that\nthe chief interests of the consultant are bound up in some man in India.\nThat there is delay in receiving important news from him is shown by the\nsymbol of the pigeon on the stone immediately beneath the handle. But\nthat most favourable news may be expected later is certain, for the\nfigure of a man upon an elephant with a pineapple beyond gives proof of\nthis. The natives with the large \"P\" in conjunction show that the\nPunjaub is indicated, and this is further emphasised by the sign-post\nwhich points towards these symbols. The child's toys show the\nconsultant's association and happiness with children. The figure of the\nwoman seated on the edge of a rock with its curious peak behind her, and\nthe seagull below, suggest that storms at sea will cause distress to\nsome woman known to the consultant. The small figure \"11,\" close to this\nsymbol, points out that it is likely to be eleven days before there is\nhope of the anxiety being relieved.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE I]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Natives on post. Large letter \"P.\" Child's toys. Woman\nwith uplifted hands on curious shaped rock. Small numeral \"11\" above.\nSeagull perched on small rock beneath.\n\n_In centre_.--Pigeon standing on large stone, man in sun helmet on\nelephant. Sign-post pointing to letter \"P.\"\n\n_Near rim and handle_.--A pineapple on dish.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE II\n\n\nThis cup shows that a variety of events may be expected, with a fair\nproportion of pleasure and success to be anticipated from them.\n\nThe finger beyond the handle pointing to the ark indicates that in all\ntrials the consultant will find a refuge. The hanging lamp is also a\nguarantee of coming success, and prosperous undertakings, in some new\nplan which is under consideration.\n\nThe clouds, the symbol of the goat beyond which is facing into the open\ngateway, signify that an advantageous opportunity, to which a certain\namount of risk is attached, awaits the consultant; the prominent\nfigurehead upon the stone pillar gives assurance that all will turn out\nwell, and that there is no need for hesitation in embarking upon this\nnew opportunity; that it will necessitate a removal is shown by the\nbuildings beyond. The quill pen and dots point to the fact that some\nlegal business will be transacted over money affairs.\n\nThe dove-cot in the centre, with the form of a widow with dots around,\nsignifies that a benefit to the home may be expected in the future,\nthrough a widow. The clergyman in conjunction, holding a paper, shows\nthat the benefit will probably come about through a reconciliation. The\nbank of clouds behind the ferry boat shows that some trouble, to be\nexpected in the future, will be lightened by the help of good friends.\nWhilst the bird stationary upon the piece of wood, at some distance from\nthe consultant, and in conjunction with the letter \"L,\" means\nuncertainty as to some desired information, which should come from\nsomeone whose name begins with \"L.\"\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE II]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Finger. Small ark. Hanging lamp and shade. Large\narm-chair. Bank of clouds. Goat. Large open gateway. Curious shaped\nfigurehead upon a stone pillar. Low curved wall and buildings. Small\nquill pen and dots.\n\n_In centre_.--Dove-cot. Widow in flowing veil seated in chair. Dots\naround. Man in clerical hat holding an open paper in his hand.\n\n_Near rim_.--Shapeless leaves. Small ferry boat on water. Bird\nstanding on log of wood. Letter \"L.\"\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE III\n\n\nThe cat with dots around being near the handle indicates financial worry\nin the home. The bone beyond shows that the misfortunes will be met with\ncourage, and eventually overcome. The cockatoo, with the cauliflower\nappearing on the opposite side, signifies that an unreliable friend will\ncause the consultant a little uneasiness, and as a small symbol of a\nmushroom is beside it, a quarrel with this undesirable friend may be\nexpected.\n\nThe pear may be linked to the symbol of the font in the centre of the\ncup, showing that the consultant may expect news of a birth; the carving\nindicates that the news will give much satisfaction; the wine-cup, with\nthe leg in conjunction, points out that the ambitions of the consultant\nwill certainly be realised in the future. That a certain amount of\nwaiting will be necessary is shown by the distance from the handle.\n\nThe motor boat, and monument in the centre, foretell the successful\noutcome of a new venture, which at present is unthought-of. The rocks\nshow that a certain amount of mental agitation is aroused by the setting\nout on this undertaking, but, with the reassuring symbols in this cup,\nno alarm is necessary.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE III]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On side under handle_.--Cat. Scattered dots.\n\n_On side_.--Bone. Cockatoo upon a stump of wood. Small symbol of a\nleg. Wine-cup held in hand. Small symbol of a mushroom. Pear.\nCauliflower.\n\n_On circle under handle_.--Curious shaped rocks.\n\n_On circle beyond_.--Monument.\n\n_In centre_.--Motor boat. Font. Carved figures.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE IV\n\n\nThe symbol of the seal being directly under the handle, with the large\narch and carving beyond, show that the consultant will soon enjoy the\nfulfilment of a long desired hope; everything is going smoothly, and\nwill turn out as desired. The only obstacle is seen in the symbol of the\nweasel, which appears beyond the seal, pointing to the fact that the\nconsultant has someone who is not to be trusted in the home, but this\nwill not result in anything serious.\n\nThe figures of the two women opposite the handle show the arrival of\nfriends to the \"house,\" bringing presents with them. The inkpot, pen,\nand numeral \"7,\" with the bird's nest in connection, show that happy\nnews, as the result of personal effort on the part of the consultant,\nmay be looked for within seven days.\n\nThe rock, motor, and wavy lines being in conjunction, warn the\nconsultant of some forthcoming vexation, and possibly alarm, in\nconnection with a motor expedition, but the episode is in the distance,\nand will not be more than a passing cloud.\n\nThe slug, at the bottom of the cup, predicts a future disturbance with\nsomeone, but the matter will be trifling. The large symbol of the king\nand queen upon the throne, opposite the handle, foretells a future of\nhonour and wealth, and the assurance of every happiness for this\nfortunate consultant.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE IV]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Opposite handle on circle_.--Two women, inside figure carrying\nbasket, outside figure with parcel under arm.\n\n_On sides_.--Line of wavy dots. Large rock. Motor. Bird's nest.\nPen. Numeral \"7.\" Inkpot.\n\n_On circle_.--Large arch with carving.\n\n_In centre_.--Slug. Figures of King and Queen on throne.\n\n_Under handle_.--Seal. Weasel.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE V\n\n\nThe large rock on the side, with the letter \"J\" beside it, speaks of a\nforthcoming vexation or trouble caused by someone whose name begins with\n\"J.\" The necklace and jewellery beyond, with scattered dots around, give\na cheerful assurance to the consultant of coming prosperity. This is\nfurther emphasised by the circle of dots above the letter \"C\" in the\ncentre. As the initial is large, it probably indicates the name of the\nplace from which the source of wealth may be anticipated; and that much\nhappiness will come to the consultant in the future, is shown by the\ndancing figure and carved figures being in conjunction.\n\nThe small basket, the sausage, and roll of bread, with the query and \"2\"\nbeyond, all point to the fact that the consultant will have little\ncomplaints and grumbles to put up with, and there will be some doubt as\nto which of two people is most to blame. But it will be only a small\nripple upon the otherwise smooth surface of the consultant's outlook.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE V]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Large rocks. Letter \"J\" in conjunction. Necklace.\nJewellery.\n\n_In centre_.--Large ornamental \"C.\" Circle of dots above. Figure of\ngirl dancing with arm upraised beneath. Carved figures.\n\n_In centre near circle_.--Basket. Large sausage with roll of bread\nin conjunction. Small query. Numeral \"2.\"\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE VI\n\n\nThe numeral \"4,\" beside the shapeless leaves, and the line leading from\nthis to the flat rock beyond, indicate that in about four days the\nconsultant may expect to meet with obstacles in the way of some\nprospective outing or pleasure, which will probably fall through.\n\nThe corkscrew, with the letter \"C\" in conjunction, signifies vexatious\ncuriosity as to the consultant's private concerns, on the part of\npersons whose names begin with these initials. But that it is merely a\npassing annoyance is shown by the symbol of the arch, and dancing\nfigures above it, and, with the fig tree beyond, foretells the\ndevelopment of things most wished for, and much future happiness and\nprosperity.\n\nThe anvil in the centre, with the branches of a tree in conjunction,\nsuggests that it will be largely owing to the consultant's energy that\nthis hopeful outlook in the future may safely be predicted.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE VI]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Corkscrew. Letter \"C.\" Arch. Dancing figures above.\nFig tree.\n\n_Near rim_.--Shapeless leaves. Numeral \"4.\" Line leading to flat\nrock.\n\n_In centre_.--Anvil. Branches of a tree.\n\n_Under handle_.--Scattered dots.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE VII\n\n\nAlthough the small symbol of the dagger points towards the consultant,\nit would not in this case predict a personal danger, as there are no\nfurther signs of illness or misfortune. So that it may safely be taken\nto mean that the consultant will shortly be going to see a friend who\nhas had an operation; this fact is borne out by the short dotted line\nbeyond, leading to the door knocker, under which is written the word\n\"in.\"\n\nThe numeral \"7\" coming at the end of the dotted line would show that it\nwill probably be seven weeks before this friend recovers from the\nillness. This friend's name is shown to begin with \"L,\" as that letter\nis also near the end of the lines.\n\nThe more distant signs of a brooch and a cabinet beyond both foretell\nthe unexpected development of good fortune. If the consultant is\nmarried, the thimble in the centre would show future changes in the\nhousehold; that they will be advantageous is shown by the large feather\nwhich gives assurance of a prosperous future.\n\nThat this may come about through a friend, or lover, is shown by the\ncigar, and is further emphasised by the large dots beside it.\n\nA warning against extravagance, however, is given to the consultant by\nthe crinoline, which appears amidst these signs of future wealth.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE VII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Near rim_.--Small dagger. Short dotted line leading to door\nknocker, with \"in\" written beneath. Numeral \"7.\" Letter \"L.\" Dots.\n\n_On sides near circle_.--Group of dots and small symbols showing\npresents. Brooch. Cabinet.\n\n_In centre_.--Crinoline. Large feather. Small cigar. Thimble.\n\n_Under handle_.--Symbols of letters and parcels.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE VIII\n\n\nThe only definite indication of future prospects is shown by the symbol\nof the organ, and acorn, upon the circle at the bottom of the cup, the\nposition of these signs showing that hope will not be realised for some\ntime.\n\nBut these symbols make the prediction of ultimate success a safe one.\nShould the consultant be a musician, triumph in the profession would be\nassured.\n\nThe coal scoop and beetle are significant of domestic worries and\nhousehold cares. But the tea cosy in the centre promises compensation in\nthe way of small comforts and affection.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE VIII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\nSmall symbol of a coal scoop.\n\n_On circle_.--Organ. Acorn beside it. Beetle.\n\n_In centre_.--Tea cosy.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE IX\n\n\nThis cup would be singularly disappointing from the consultant's point\nof view, as it is devoid of incident.\n\nThe large spray of thistle on the rim indicates an unselfish life of\nendurance. For the present, there is no sign of a more eventful\nexistence.\n\nThe dust-pan, brush, and duster, in the centre, point to future domestic\nvexations, but the large spray of iris beside it promises a pleasure\nwhich will far outbalance the trifling disturbance.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE IX]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Near rim_.--Thistle.\n\n_Centre_.--Dust-pan and brush. Duster. Large spray of iris.\n\n_Under handle_.--Shapeless leaves.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE X\n\n\nThe most striking features of this cup are the various indications of\npleasure and social enjoyment. These being shown by the cake and\nbutterfly, while the orchid in conjunction predicts that the\nconsultant's personal charm and power of attraction will result in a\nfuture of wealth and social distinction.\n\nThe pillar, near the rim and handle, gives a pleasing assurance of\nsecurity and loyal friends. The bird flying from the cage brings joyful\nnews, that something which has been an obstacle in the way of the\nconsultant's desires is about to be removed, and much future happiness\nmay be looked for.\n\nThe figure of the man fishing from a rock foreshows the arrival of a\nvisitor, who will have some pleasant news to tell.\n\nThe toque opposite the handle, but at the bottom of the cup, gives\nfurther evidence of the good luck coming to this fortunate consultant.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE X]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Near rim_.--Small stone pillar. Cake on dish. Man on rock fishing.\n\n_On sides_.--Bird cage, small bird flying from it.\n\n_On circle_.--Butterfly. Lady's hat.\n\n_In centre_.--Orchid with long stalk.\n\n_Under handle_.--Shapeless leaves.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XI\n\n\nThis cup indicates that the consultant is apt to be ruffled by trifles\nand to become upset by anything unexpected. As, for instance, in the\ncase of the arrival of visitors, shown by the mass of leaves and chair.\nThe query beside it shows the indecision of the consultant's mind as to\nnecessary arrangements. The boots on the opposite side denote that lack\nof income will not trouble the consultant.\n\nBut that there is some misfortune or hindrance in the future is shown by\nthe symbol of the broken cross in the bottom of the cup; the head and\nshoulders of the woman beside it suggest that this trouble will be\ncaused by a woman. Compensation will be found in the happy love affair,\nwhich is clearly predicted by the cherries, the figures of the man and\nwoman embracing, and the man's hat and pipe.\n\nLarge dots signify that wealth will be added to happiness. This event\nmust not be expected for some months, as the symbols are in the bottom\nof the cup.\n\nThe letter \"N\" with the dots and small tree beyond show an immediate\npleasant happening, in connection with a person whose name begins with\nthat letter.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XI]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Near rim_.--Mass of leaves. Stones.\n\n_On sides_.--Chair. Query. Two boots.\n\n_On circle_.--Figure of man and woman embracing. Small bunch of\ncherries beneath. Several dots. Man's hat and pipe in conjunction.\n\n_In centre_.--Broken cross. Head and shoulders of woman.\n\n_Under handle_.--Letter \"N.\" Small tree beyond.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XII\n\n\nThe present conditions of this consultant are not cheering. The large\ncloud, associated with dots, the small dog on the opposite side, and the\npoliceman beyond, all point to grievous money worries, possibly caused\nby dishonesty.\n\nThe somewhat indistinct axe implies a brave effort to overcome, and\nfinal mastery of, some of the difficulties.\n\nHowever, the future has more pleasant prospects, and may be looked\nforward to with hope. The symbols of the clover and cherries, give\nassurance of this.\n\nThe spray of ivy speaks of the patience with which the present trials\nare borne, also that true friends are a source of comfort to the\nconsultant.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On side_.--Small dog lying down.\n\n_Near rim_.--Policeman. Indistinct symbol of an axe. Large cloud.\nDots.\n\n_Centre_.--Two small butterflies. Small symbol of a stocking. Small\nbunch of cherries. Spray of ivy. Clover.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XIII\n\n\nThe consultant who has \"turned\" this cup must be prepared for delays,\nand must not expect real happiness until rather late in life, this being\nshown by the bonnet and strings on the side of the cup.\n\nThe small symbol of birds on a perch gives further evidence that having\nto wait is a feature of the consultant's lot. The rock and pipe beyond\nshow some dismay with regard to a dear friend.\n\nThe large spray of mistletoe and holly at the bottom of the cup, with\nthe letters \"F\" and \"L\" in conjunction, implies that some event of\nimportance to the consultant, in connection with persons whose names\nbegin with these initial letters, will occur in the winter. If the cup\nhas been \"turned\" during the autumn or winter, probably a year will pass\nbefore the event takes place, as the mistletoe indicates delay. But this\nconsultant is prepared to hear the truth, and faces it calmly, even if\nit is a little unpleasant; the symbol of the woman looking into the\nglass brings this fact to light.\n\nThe child playing with its toys foreshows future pleasant plans which\nwill result in tranquillity and satisfaction.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XIII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Bonnet and strings. Birds on perch. Pieces of rock. A\npipe.\n\n_On circle_.--Child with toys.\n\n_Centre_.--Large sprays of mistletoe and holly. Letters \"F\" and\n\"L.\" Figure of woman looking in glass.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XIV\n\n\nThis cup was \"turned\" by a well-known authoress. Its sinister appearance\nis accounted for by the fact that at the time of \"turning\" the cup, she\nwas arranging mentally a murder plot for the book she was then writing.\n\nThe symbols speak for themselves and need no explanation.\n\nIt is a most interesting specimen, as being absolutely unique.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XIV]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On side overlapping circle_.--Tail and hindquarters of rat, with\nhead in a hole. Monster with a man's head and bear's paws.\n\n_On side_.--Dead fish beyond.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XV\n\n\nThe consultant who \"turned\" this cup was sorrowful and had either just\npassed through a bereavement, or such will take place in the immediate\nfuture. The rough cross and the grave near the handle point to this. The\nbed, with the figure of the woman in nurse's cloak near it tells of\nserious illness in the home. But this is a future trouble, as the\nsymbols appear at some distance from the handle. The saucepan also bears\nwitness to the general gloom.\n\nThe ivy leaves beyond the rough cross show the patience with which the\nconsultant bears the trials; also that good and loyal friends will be a\nsource of comfort.\n\nThe small bit of wood and the closed book are symbols of hope, and\nassure this sad consultant that the expected improvement in affairs will\ncertainly take place and will relieve some of the present anxieties.\n\nThis is the most that can be foretold of the future, for there are no\nsigns of pleasant events or definite changes. Indeed, the symbol of the\nloaf of bread in the centre of the cup shows that monotony and ordinary\nroutine are all that can be predicted from the divination.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XV]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_Near rim_.--Rough cross. Ivy leaves beyond. Large closed book.\n\n_On sides_.--Log of wood. Bed. Figure of a woman in nurse's cloak\nbeside it. Grave, with small cross.\n\n_In centre_.--Loaf of bread. Small symbol of a saucepan.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XVI\n\n\nThis cup gives an impression of a somewhat undeveloped character which\nis further brought into notice by the stump of a tree on the circle; the\nhen on a nest, near the handle, points to a home life of comfort and\naffection.\n\nThe egg in the cup, and the duck, show that a risk of threatened\ndisaster, as a result of rash speculation will be averted, and with the\nsymbol of the three boots, fortunate prospects, and the guarantee of\nhope fulfilled, may safely be predicted for the future.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XVI]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Hen on nest. Shapeless leaves. Egg in cup.\n\n_Near circle opposite handle_.--A duck.\n\n_On circle_.--Stump of tree. Three boots.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XVII\n\n\nThe figure of the child, with its toys beyond, implies that new plans,\nto be made very soon, will be most beneficial, and will bring much\npleasure to the consultant. But as the sausages and snail are not far\ndistant, there is likely to be a marring of the pleasant conditions,\ncaused by an act of unfaithfulness on the part of someone with whom the\nconsultant is closely connected.\n\nThe bellows beyond suggest that the matter is treated with as much\nphilosophy as possible, and with a resolve to make the best of a bad\nbusiness; the ham also, being in conjunction, it is evident that the\nepisode will not interfere with the consultant's success in life.\n\nThe sign post, with the running figure beside it and the large letter\n\"M\" beyond, prepare the consultant for startling news, the result of\nwhich will be of great importance. The news will come from a place\nbeginning with the letter \"M.\" There is no doubt that the matter will\nturn out admirably and bring about many advantages, as shown by the\nspreading branches of the tree; while the grapes beneath promise\nabundant success and joy.\n\nThe large boot-tree and latch-key on the circle beneath the handle\npredict a fortunate and unexpected gain in the near future. This\nconsultant may look forward with confidence to the pleasures which fate\nhas in store.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XVII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Child seated. Toys beyond. Sausages. Snail. Ham.\nBellows.\n\n_In centre_.--Sign post. Running figure beside it. Large letter \"M\"\nin conjunction.\n\n_On circle_.--Tree with spreading branches. Bunch of grapes\nbeneath. Large boot-tree. Latch-key.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XVIII\n\n\nThe shadow beneath the haycock shows that the consultant will soon be\nplaced in a somewhat trying position and will have considerable\ndifficulty in finding a way out of it.\n\nThe future is full of promise and there can be little doubt that the\nconsultant will enjoy the pleasures of prosperity.\n\nA journey to a cold climate to be taken later will result in very\npropitious news as shown by the symbol of the pheasant.\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XVIII]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Shapeless leaves. Haycock. Shadow beneath.\n\n_In centre_.--Pair of boots. Spreading branches of a tree. Pheasant\nflying.\n\n_Near circle_.--Head of a polar bear.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XIX\n\n\nThe doll on the side, with the small symbol of a toadstool beside it,\ngives a warning to the consultant against folly and a bad habit of\ngossiping when feeling bored in society. The stuffed head of the deer,\nin this case, shows that much distress is caused by the unguarded talk,\nand the consultant certainly cannot be described as an \"innocent cause.\"\n\nThe various scattered shapeless leaves point to confusion, and a\nsomewhat \"happy-go-lucky\" nature. The spray of poppies on the circle\nbeneath the handle foreshows that a pleasant experience may be expected\nin the summer.\n\nThe broken gate, with the cross above it, denotes that a new opportunity\nwhich awaits the consultant at a future date, will coincide with a time\nof perplexity and trouble, which fact is further borne out by the\nrunning figure below. This being in conjunction with a large letter \"Y,\"\nimplies that the disturbance will arise in connection with a place, the\nname of which begins with \"Y.\"\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XIX]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Small symbol of a toadstool. Doll. Head of a stuffed\ndeer.\n\n_Near rim_.--Many shapeless leaves.\n\n_On circle_.--Spray of poppies.\n\n_In centre_.--Broken gate with cross above it. Large \"Y.\" Running\nfigure.\n\n\n\n\nINTERPRETATION\n\nFIGURE XX\n\n\nThis cup shows confusion and that the consultant was in a state of\nmental turmoil at the time of \"turning\" it. But in spite of this\ndrawback there are some interesting facts to be found.\n\nThe dotted circles and large ornamental arch point to a most hopeful\noutlook and to the successful development of some desire at present\nunattainable.\n\nThe various initials and small numerals scattered about show\ncorrespondence as to plans and fixing of dates. The bush apple tree\nspeaks of some pleasure which may be looked forward to in the summer.\n\nThe dancing figures predict much future happiness; the numerous changes\nwhich are likely to come about will all tend to success and the\ngratifying of the consultant's wishes. And what more cheerful outlook\nthan this can be desired?\n\n[Illustration: FIGURE XX]\n\nPRINCIPAL SYMBOLS\n\n_On sides_.--Scattered shapeless leaves. Several initials. Small\nnumerals. Dotted circles. A large ornamental arch.\n\n_Near circle_.--Bush apple tree.\n\n_In centre_.--Dancing and grotesque figures.\n\n\n\n\nCONCLUDING NOTE\n\nIt may be safely promised to those who follow the simple instructions\ngiven in this book that within a short time they will find themselves\nencircled by a halo of popularity. For few things provide a more certain\nguarantee of this pleasant condition than that of being able to \"tell\nfortunes.\" Divination by tea-leaves will bring to those who study it\ndeeply a fund of knowledge beyond the radius of normal understanding.\n\nFor those who use it as a means of amusement only, it will give pleasure\nwhich is dependent upon nothing more difficult to obtain than a cup of\ntea! With this recommendation I will leave these pages, in the sincere\nhope that this little book may be of real value to those who desire to\nbe initiated into the fascinating art of reading the future in a\ntea-cup.","title":"Telling Fortunes By Tea Leaves: How to Read Your Fate in a Teacup","tradition":"scripture-revelation","translated_text":null,"word_count":27800}