Massachusetts.
1085. The first time you see the moon in the New Year, look at it and say,—
Whose table shall I spread?
For whom make the bed?
Whose name shall I carry?
And whom shall I marry?
Then think of one you would like to marry, and go your way. Ask some question of the first person you meet, and if the answer is affirmative, it indicates that you will marry your choice; if negative, it means you will not.
Told by a Norwegian girl in Eastern Massachusetts.
1086. Rest a mirror on the head and look at the new moon in it; as many moons as you see mean the number of months before marriage.
1087. When it is new moon, take out a stocking, and as you knit repeat,—
This knot I knit
To know the thing I know not yet,
This night that I may see
Who my husband is to be,
How he goes and what he wears,
And what he does all days and years.
Nashua, N. H.
1088. Look over the right shoulder at the new moon, and count nine stars, pick up whatever is under your right foot, such as a stick, pebble, or what not; put it under your pillow, and you will dream of whoever is to be your husband.
Deer Isle, Me.