THE SCIENCE OF PALMISTRY[ [A]
If we regard either hand closely, we notice that the surface of the fingers and palms consists of elevations, depressions and lines. The ancients gave these different formations separate names to which they attached certain meanings.
For the purpose of divination the science of palmistry is of great importance, because it is these selfsame lines and elevations in the palm which betray the character and disposition of its possessor. The old notion that they also disclose his future has been discarded by modern authorities.
The lines on the palm remain unchangeable and irremovable. This has been often proved in the cases where through accident the palm happened to become disfigured; even where the entire skin came off, it was observed that these delicately indented lines which seemed to be only in the superficial layer of the skin were in reality indelibly stamped into the tissues of the hand, and the new skin bore them in the same manner.
The Line of Life and the Line of Fate are the only ones to undergo any change, and they are also the lines which, though unable to hint the future, clearly show the earliest past and the direction which the possessor should pursue. But despite some pretensions to the effect, it is impossible to tell whether the objects sought for will be reached. When it is desired to do that the other lines which are unchangeable must be called to assistance. For instance, if the Line of Character is strong and well defined, the palmist assumes that the object will be accomplished, and vice versa. As may be seen, this method is one of probabilities rather than positive truths.
The chief value of palm-reading consists in the helpful suggestions which it offers to the conscientious psychic in his efforts to unravel the future of his client.
[A] The significance of the lines and mountains of the hands are compiled from several old and authentic treatises on Palmistry.