Orondo watched her eagerly while she placed the cards, face downward on the four trines. When they were all in position she turned over the ace of diamonds, on the western cardinal point of rubies, and then quickly laid those on numbers 1, 6, 11—in a row. Beginning with number 1, she said:
“This pertains to the present state of time—thy life as it is at this moment. All is well from this point. Number 6 is exalted and grand, as the individual contacts Deity. But in number 11, there are adverse conditions—I can see neither posterity nor extended continuation here.”
“Posterity holds nothing for me?” questioned Orondo, concern dominating manner and voice.
“Not as the matter lies. But all the cards are involved in the final reading. Have patience.”
She next placed the ace of clubs on the northern point, face upward, and arranged the cards on numbers 2, 7, 12—as before. Beginning with number 2, directly above the ace, she said:
“This is the place of power, majesty and honor. In such conditions thou standest well. Thou wilt govern Tlamco in future days. A change of place is shown by the covering of number 7. Supreme rule, however, attends it; while in the place of 12, merit and acquired skill stand worthy sponsors to thy desires.”
On the eastern point, directly in front of Orondo, she uncovered the emerald, hidden by the ace of clubs, and proceeded to read from number 3—the place of love, felicity, agreement and delight. What she saw there was so adverse that she quickly turned over the cards, marking the place of love in service, reception and bounty in which she found some encouragement. Number 9, the place of favor, help and succor were in exceeding doubt.
“What is it?” queried Orondo, impressed by her manner.
“The trine of love is much assailed by disquieting import. So, I pray thee, give me leave to consult the throne of affliction at once, that the whole matter may stand revealed.”
“Thou hast my full consent,” said Orondo, now intent and eager.