Then she must turn the cup over, so that no water remains, for drops of water in the teagrounds signify tears.
Next, she must turn the cup around slowly toward her three times, wishing the wish of her heart as she turns it.
After this she must rest it a minute against the edge of a saucer—to court luck.
Then the fortune-teller takes it and reads the fortune.
Three small dots in a row stand for the wish. If near the top it will soon be realized. If at the bottom some time will elapse.
If the grounds are bunched together it signifies that all will be well with the fortune-seeker, but if they are scattered it means much the reverse.
A small speck near the top is a letter. A large speck, a photograph, or present of some kind, either one depending on the shape of the speck.
The sticks are people—light or dark, short or tall, according to their color and length. A small one means a child. A thick one, a woman.
If they lie crosswise they are enemies. If straight up, intimate friends, or pleasant acquaintances to be made.
If a large speck is near them, it means they are coming for a visit, bringing a valise or trunk.