FORTUNES AND DREAMS

FORTUNES AND
DREAMS

A PRACTICAL MANUAL OF FORTUNE
TELLING, DIVINATION AND THE
INTERPRETATION OF DREAMS,
SIGNS AND OMENS

BY

ASTRA CIELO

NEW YORK
GEORGE SULLY AND COMPANY

Copyright, 1917
BY SULLY AND KLEINTEICH

Printed in U. S. A.

CONTENTS

• Historical Review—Astrological Readings—The Astrological Guide to
• Fortune—Horoscope and Tables—Character as Told by Astrology—How to
• Determine the Lucky and Unlucky Days of Any Month—Derivations of the
• Names of the Months—Derivations of the German and English Days of the Week.

• The Origin and History of Playing Cards—Suits and Symbols—Mystic
• Meaning—The Charm and Power of Cards—What the Cards Signify—Meaning
• of the Various Cards—Telling One’s Fortune with Twenty-one
• Cards—Italian Method—The French System—English System—The Gypsy
• Method—Creole Method—Card Oracles.

• Principal Lines of the Palm and Their Meaning—The Shape and Length
• of the Phalanges—Form of the Hand—Character from the Shape of a Hand
• and Fingers—The Mountains—A Reading of the Lines and Other Characteristics.

• What Different Eyes Indicate—Reading Character by the Color of the
• Eyes—Disposition by the Shape of the Nose—Reading Character by the
• Form of the Lips—Reading Character by the Shape of the Ear.

• Do Dreams Foretell the Future?—How Dreams Should Be
• Interpreted—A Dictionary of Dreams.

INTRODUCTION

There is a Latin saying that “Fortune frustrates, single-handed, the plans of learned men.” There are moments in the lives of each of us when we do not seem to be masters of our actions, but are led by blind chance into paths which bring success or failure in spite of our own individual efforts. We stand in awe before a power which seems inimical to us, or rejoice over a series of coincidences that boost us into fame and fortune.

It is easy to understand, therefore, why men of all ages have had a restless striving to search out the Unknown and the Unknowable, and to endeavor to foretell the future and its mysterious dispensations. In all ages, men have endeavored in various ways to penetrate the mysteries of the future. They have consulted the stars, the oracles, deities of their own manufacture, cards of various devices, etc., in an effort to solve the problems about them.

There is a vein of superstition in every human being, and some of the world’s greatest geniuses, statesmen, scientists and warriors have not been ashamed to seek information from prophets and seers, when the tangle of life seemed too difficult for them to unravel thru their own efforts. The pages of history as well as the Holy Bible are full of instances where the power of divination was invoked to settle important decisions.

This book has been compiled for the use of intelligent people who desire to know the various ways in which events have been prophesied by occultists the world over, and who wish to test their own faculties and consult the Book of Fate in their own behalf. The various methods and tables are offered to the reader at their own value, without any special claim for their accuracy or efficacy. Each inquirer must determine for himself how far he may trust the oracle that he has consulted. Some of the material is new and is not to be found in modern books of this nature. Most of the tables have been gleaned from very old authorities.

It must be understood that successful consultations depend in a great measure on the psychic operations in the mind of the inquirer, who must approach the subject with a desire to know the truth. There is an intuitive perception in all minds, which can be developed by practice. The inquirer should not be discouraged by lack of success at the start. It must be remembered that any attempt to force a favorable divination by cards or astrology is unfair and makes the whole operation void.

ASTROLOGY

Historical Review

Astrology, the science of the stars and their influence on the lives and destinies of human beings, is a very old and honorable subject. It was early developed in Egypt and flourished chiefly in Chaldea, whose star-gazers and prognosticators were so famous that the name “Chaldee” came to be used as having the same meaning as Astrologer, not only in the Bible but among ancient writers. In the East it still has its followers and is much practiced by the Arabs and Asiatics. Its vogue in Rome and Greece was great, but it was forbidden by the Emperor Augustus, only to be revived later. The Moors in Spain held it in great respect and made it popular among the nations of Europe.

Astrology continued to be popular until the sixteenth century. It was practiced by the European courts as late as the eighteenth century, even in England. It was considered a worthy science even by the great astronomer Kepler, and Lilly, another astronomer, was called before the House of Commons in the reign of Charles II to give his opinion of future events.

Astrology teaches us that the heavenly bodies influence not only the earth but all living creatures on the globe. Every child born is subject to the planet or star under which it came to life. When a child is born its mind is still a blank and its character unformed. The stars find a ready tablet on which to record their marks for good or evil, and the character, disposition, passions, gifts, talents, etc., which the child will show in later years are decided on thru the influence of the heavenly bodies. Thus, the planet Mercury gives wisdom and force of mind; Venus gives the power of loving; Mars, the desire to work and fight; etc.

The general method of procedure in discovering the characteristics or deciding the fate of a man is to draw a horoscope, representing the position of the stars and planets in the whole heaven or within one degree of the eastern horizon, at the time of the individual’s birth. If the horoscope is to decide the success of an undertaking the date of the same is taken as a starting-point. Significance is given to each of the heavenly bodies as they appear singly or in conjunction and the horoscope is interpreted according to these significations.

The great physician, Paracelsus, was enthusiastic in his teachings that the heavenly bodies had a great effect upon the bodies of men, especially upon their diseases, and many doctors until recent years consulted the stars in an endeavor to find the proper remedies for the suffering.

The Bible has many instances which show the esteem in which Astrology was held. In the very first part we read that God made the stars to serve as “signs, seasons and days.” We read that the “stars in their courses fought against Sisera.” This shows how the heavenly bodies were supposed to influence the deeds of men.

We all know that the tides are caused by the pulling of the moon, and that this planet would be a dreary waste were it not for the light and heat it gets from the sun. We have recently discovered that the sun’s rays also give us health, that they possess a great curative power and that the ultraviolet rays are of benefit in many diseases. It is but natural to suppose, therefore, that other planets and even distant stars influence this earth and its inhabitants. Many of the stars of which we see but dim specks are many thousands of times bigger than our sun and may exert a correspondingly great influence.

All celestial bodies probably do have some influence on our minds and our bodies. They move in their orbits just as each human being has his own circle or orbit in which he moves from birth to death. It seems rational to suppose that every individual is subject to the influence of some particular planet which was in the ascendant at the time of his or her birth, and that a knowledge of the planet may help decide the ultimate career and fortune of the child.

We may go further and claim that the planet of a child may affect the future of the parents and that there is a mysterious relation between the parents and their offspring. The orbits of the parents are often entirely changed by the coming of a child. It is not a rare occurrence to have the influence of the child completely overpower the lives of the parents. We all are acquainted with folks who date their good or bad fortune from the birth of a particular child. People who have been respected and prosperous seem suddenly hounded by misfortune after the birth of a son, and end in poverty. On the other hand, many a family can date its good fortune from the day a son or daughter was born to them.

Dame Fortune is certainly a fickle fairy who dispenses her good and bad gifts with an erratic hand, and no one can tell what fate may befall. “Read the answer in the stars,” is the only logical reply to the many puzzles that come up for solution.

Warnings and danger signals are shown to us by nature more often than we think. But we are so intent on our troubles or on making money that we fail to recognize them. Nature has resource to dreams, premonitions, signs and omens to tell us of our impending fate. We are often agitated without knowing why, have moods of depression and causeless fears. They are portents on the part of nature that we are often too ignorant to heed.

A study of Astrology may help us avoid many pitfalls. It must not be considered from a superstitious point of view, but as a possible fact in nature that may lead us to better things.

Astrological Readings

A system which will tell with exactitude what every person born under a particular star can accomplish, or what his particular bent or talent may be, is manifestly impossible. Every individual is subject to so many outside influences, is attracted or repelled by so many subtle, mental or psychic influences, that his astrological status is constantly undergoing some change. Just as every planet is subject to the force of gravity of every other heavenly body which pulls it out of its ordained course, so is every human mind swayed and turned from its original course. Only the expert in astrological lore can reconcile these various influences and give a correct reading of the future.

The following tables, however, will give the reader a fairly correct estimate of his character, traits, faults and talents.

The Astrological Guide to Fortune

First find the exact date of your birth, express the numbers in one line. For instance: Let us say you were born April 5, 1876. April is the fourth month of the year; you must therefore write the date 4.5.1876. Now add these numbers thus 4 + 5 + 1 + 8 + 7 + 6 = 31. Repeat the addition with the resulting number 3 + 1 = 4. You now have a sum resulting in a single digit. This digit is your “Key of Fortune,” which gives you access to your planetary future. Now you must find your planet by adding the number of your present month to this Key. If the present month happens to be July, add 7. 4 plus 7 equals 11. Repeating the addition 1 plus 1 equals 2. You must now look for No. 2 in the “Planetary Chart” on [page 9]. You will find that Jupiter is the custodian of your Key. You will find in the [table on page 9], that the house of Jupiter is designated by the letter B. Next consult the [table of Primal Questions on page 9] and select one of the 12 questions which you desire answered.

Let us suppose you selected question No. 1, “Does—— love me? ”Consult the [Horoscope Chart on page 8] and you will find that question No. 1 is ruled by Aquarius. You will now turn to [Table B], which was the letter corresponding to the house of Jupiter and look for Aquarius, which gives the answer “The person loves others besides you.”

This is but one of the ways in which these astrological tables can be used. It is always best to consult an expert in this science, in order to obtain scientific results. Those counting their birthdays according to the Hebrew or Russian calendars will find the answer equally correct. Another method of consulting the oracle is to add the letters in your first name, counting one for A, two for B, etc., and proceeding as in the case of the dates, until there is one digit.

Names have in all religious systems been considered of great influence in determining a person’s fate. The ancients were careful in selecting names for their children, believing that certain names could bring good or bad luck. Names were often changed in order to coerce Dame Fortune. Thus Abram had his name changed to Abraham; Jacob had his name changed to Israel. Among the orthodox Jews it is still customary to change the name of a very sick or an unlucky person.

Shakespeare may well ask, “What’s in a name?” According to Astrology, the name signifies very much.

Horoscope

(See Chart in [Frontispiece.])

Primal Questions

Planetary Chart

Table A.
SUN.

Table B.
JUPITER.

Table C.
NEPTUNE.

Table D.
SATURN.

Table E.
EARTH.

Table F.
MERCURY.

Table G.
MARS.

Table H.
VENUS.

Table J.
MOON.

Character as Told by Astrology

JANUARY.—Those born in January are earnest, truthful people, usually not over-enthusiastic, but keen and possessing commercial and executive ability. They are slow to undertake anything, but once they are started they have grit and endurance. They are idealists and have a deeply religious nature. They are tolerant of others and charitable. Their love of society often makes them leaders in social and benevolent organizations. They are fond of great enterprises, in which they are usually successful. If they speculate, they win, altho they should be doubly cautious. They make good parents and excellent neighbors. Are inclined to neuralgia and rheumatism, which can be averted by proper care and diet.

FEBRUARY.—Those born in this month are calm, judicious and even-tempered. They are good talkers and slow to show anger. In their business, they are faithful and earnest. What they begin is usually well planned and carried to a successful issue. They are fond of home life and indulgent to wife and children. They are inclined to be susceptible to cold and should beware of enervating diseases. Women born in February, especially the second half, frequently have psychic powers. Men make good lawyers or doctors and often rise to great prominence. Are liable to catarrhal and pulmonary troubles, but often live very long.

MARCH.—People born in March are usually sensitive and critical. They are fond of domesticity and keep much to themselves. They often have great ability, are inventive and have a keen analytical mind. Many mathematicians are born in this month. They command psychic power and become good musicians. As a rule they are trustworthy as employees, and the women usually are fond of the mysterious. They are inclined to mental illness and often troubled with headaches and rheumatism. They should beware of all speculation and gambling. Headaches and nervous troubles may assail them in old age.

APRIL.—This month produces people who are capable and successful. They take unusual interest in scientific questions, are inventive, argumentative and become good politicians, lawyers or preachers. Are usually religiously inclined and sensitive. Have a strong will and great executive powers. Many architects, electricians and scientists are born in April. In their home life they are happy and easily satisfied; apt to be dominated by their opposite partner, but never relinquish their opinion if the other is in the wrong. A little speculation is safe, but should be approached cautiously. Usually live to a good old age, but should guard against gout and diabetes.

MAY.—Men born in this month, especially the latter half, are omnivorous readers and good talkers. They have artistic and musical tastes, but are not always successful as business men, as they lack the endurance and grit necessary to overcome obstacles. Will do better working for others than for themselves. They should never speculate or take unusual risks. In their home they are idolized and love their own devotedly. Have few friends but are attached to them. They are religious, sensitive, poetic and faithful. Many poets and composers are born in this month. They are liable to bronchitis and lung trouble.

JUNE.—People born in June are pleasure-loving, fond of dress and luxury, easy-going and hate to make much effort. They reason thru intuition and are easily elated and just as easily depressed. They are often disappointed thru difficulty in coming to a decision. They do not calculate but are guided by likes and dislikes. They frequently gain thru speculation, but more often lose. They are eager for the society of great people and rise to heights of fame thru proper help and influence. Women make good as religious teachers. Men go into politics and other professions. They should beware of excesses in eating or drinking in order to avoid intestinal diseases.

JULY.—Men born in July are possessed of great will-power, are often domineering and achieve big positions in business or politics. They often have unusual business ability and are leaders in forming big combinations. They are inventive and ingenious. They love dress, sports and ostentation. Their natures are keen, critical, forceful. They are not always just in their estimate of others, and while they give freely, are not always charitable. Their home life is often happy, but more often subject to scandal. They speculate successfully. Are often victims of catarrhal and pulmonary diseases.

AUGUST.—Those born in August are quick, impulsive, kind-hearted. They are optimistic but easily depressed by music, art and literature. They are capable of big achievements. In old age their enthusiasm is apt to wane and their success diminishes. They talk well, are fond of society, cultivate a pure home life, are religious, charitable, tender-hearted. They are capable in positions requiring fidelity and confidence. They have mechanical ability and a great deal of initiative. Are apt to dream much and should profit by their dreams. They are apt to suffer from nervous disorders.

SEPTEMBER.—Those born in this month are proud, ambitious and inclined to be showy. They have a positive nature often accompanied by literary ability. Their ideals run into money-making, and in this they are usually successful. They have a well-developed taste for fine clothes and beautiful homes. They are often jealous and suspicious, but make good husbands and wives and strict parents. They are often difficult to approach, as they hold themselves aloof from all but the highest society, and are frequently snobbish. They have a taste for literature and science. They are usually successful in speculating. Are inclined to accidents and diseases of the stomach and kidneys.

OCTOBER.—October brings forth people of a religious and patriotic nature, fond of church, poetry and literature. They are devoted to their homes, make good neighbors, are kind, charitable and peaceful. Being sensitive, they are easily offended and are shy of strangers. Many of them become famous as artists, musicians, authors, actors or professional men. They are not so successful in commercial life, as they are sensitive to rebuffs and disappointments. They are optimistic and are happy as a rule. Often gifted with telepathic powers. Headaches and nervousness often afflict their mature years.

NOVEMBER.—People born in this month are fond of travel and delight in nature. Their home life is happy, altho they are prone to jealousy. They are cool and brave in the face of danger, but easily depressed thru disappointments. Their temperaments are nervous. They are often stubborn and quick to take offense. As a rule they are faithful to their employers, firm in their allegiance and just to all. They are not usually religious, but inclined to free-thought. They should never speculate, but stick to a legitimate business. Often troubled with diseases of the digestive organs.

DECEMBER.—Those born in the Christmas month are often proud and stubborn. They like flattery and have a high opinion of their own importance. In business they show ability, carry out their decisions quickly and make good executives. They are fearless, but not always diplomatic or truthful. When once they form an attachment it is for life. They are devoted lovers of the home and true friends. If aroused, they may become deadly foes. In personal appearance they are neat, and aspire to the highest society. They often fill positions of trust and are leaders in great undertakings. They are bold speculators. They are liable to diseases from high living, such as gout, rheumatism or apoplexy.

How to Determine the Lucky and Unlucky Days of Any Month.

(This method is taken from an ancient treatise on Astrology.)

Ascertain from any almanac the day on which a full moon occurs, and count the number of days from that to the end of the month: you then multiply the number of days in the month by the number ascertained as above, and the total will give you the lucky days (subject to a further test hereafter explained). If the total happens to be, say, 516, the lucky days of that month would be the 5th and 16th, and if it should be 399—as neither of these figures can be paired—the lucky days from that total are the 3d and 9th, and the 9th would be considered doubly lucky, if no tests worked to the contrary.

The unlucky days are determined in precisely the same manner, by multiplying the number of days in the month by the number which have passed previous to a full moon.

After working out your list of lucky days in the manner above described, you must then test them, in order to be sure that there are no opposing influences. You can do this by calculating the unlucky days. Should you find that any day of the month which was designated as lucky came also in the list of unlucky days the latter preponderates and you must strike it from the lucky list.

This plan of demonstrating lucky and unlucky days is very ancient, and has been tested to such an extent that it is considered accurate by most astrologers. In olden times, before the mass of the people understood much about figures, the professional fortune-tellers demanded a large fee for computing the lucky days of any month, which they accomplished in the manner above described.

Lucky marriage days for girls were cast in the same manner, except that the age of the girl was used as the multiplicator, or multiplier, instead of the number of days in the month. The result was determined similarly, and also by a test of the unlucky days. Thus if a girl is eighteen years old, and thinks of marrying in October, she takes up an almanac and ascertains the day of the full moon in that month. If it occurs on the 24th, and there are thirty-one days in the month this leaves seven for the multiplier. She multiplies this by her age, eighteen, and the result is 126, which shows that the lucky days for her marriage in that month are the 12th and 6th, unless they are destroyed by another test, which is determined as follows. There are twenty-three days before the 24th, and she must multiply twenty-three by eighteen, which process gives 414, and shows that the 4th and 14th are the only unlucky days for her marriage. And as they do not conflict with the lucky days, the 6th and 12th may be considered as genuine lucky days for that month, reckoning the moon to be full on the 24th. In determining her age, she should reckon any period over half a year as a full and completed year.

Unlucky Days for Males

• January 3, 4.
• February 6, 7, 12, 13, 19, 20.
• March 5, 6, 12, 13.
• May 12, 13, 20, 21, 26, 27.
• June 1, 2, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24.
• July 3, 4, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18.
• October 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 31.
• November 1, 3.

Almost all persons (being of male sex) who are born on the days included in the foregoing table will—in a greater or less degree—suffer, not only by pecuniary embarrassments and loss of property, but will also experience great distress and anxiety troubles about their children, daughters forming unhappiness in their family affairs, grave disaffection toward each other among those who are married, trouble about their children, daughter forming unfortunate attachments, and a variety of untoward events of other descriptions. The influences of these days are calculated to excite in the minds of persons born thereon an extraordinary passion for speculation, for change in their affairs, for the initiation of new undertakings, but all of them will tend nearly to one point—loss of property and pecuniary embarrassments. If such persons embark their capital on credit in new concerns or engagements, they will be likely to receive interruptions to the progress of their undertakings. Those who enter into engagements intended to be permanent—whether purchases, leases, partnerships or, in short, any other speculation of a description which cannot readily be transferred or disposed of—will dearly repent their bargains.

They will find their affairs from time to time much interrupted and agitated, and will experience many disappointments in money matters, trouble through bills, and have need of all their activity and address to prop their declining credit; indeed, almost all engagements and affairs that are entered into by persons born on any of these days will receive some sort of check or obstruction. The greater number of such persons will also be subject to sickness.

List of Unlucky Days for Females.

• January 5, 6, 13, 14, 20, 21.
• February 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23.
• March 1, 2, 8, 9, 16, 17, 28, 29.
• April 24, 25.
• May 1, 2, 9, 17, 22, 29, 30.
• June 5, 6, 12, 13, 18, 19.
• July 3, 4.
• September 9, 16.
• October 20, 27.
• November 9, 10, 21, 29, 30.
• December 6, 14, 21.

The old author from whom these particulars are derived concludes with the following counsel: “We advise all females born on these days to be extremely cautious of placing their affections too hastily, for they will be subject to disappointment and vexations in these respects. It will be better for them, in such matters, to be guided by the advice of their friends, rather than by their own feelings; they will be less fortunate in placing their affections than in any other action of their lives, as many of their marriages will terminate in separations, divorces, etc. Their courtships will end in elopements, seductions and other misfortunes. These statements are drawn from the best astrological sources, and are given as a warning, that the persons concerned may avoid certain perplexing labyrinths of destiny, from which nothing but care and attention can save them.”

The Derivations of the Names of the Months

January—The Roman Janus presided over the beginning of everything; hence the first month of the year was called after him.

February—The Roman festival was held on the 15th day of this month, in honor of Lupercus, the god of fertility.

March—Named from the Roman god of war, Mars.

April—Latin Aprilis, probably derived from aperire, to open; because spring generally begins, and the buds open, in this month.

May—Latin Maius, probably derived from Maia, a feminine divinity worshiped at Rome on the first day of this month.

June—Juno, a Roman divinity worshiped as the Queen of Heaven.

July—Julius—Julius Cæsar was born in this month.

August—Named by the Emperor Augustus Cæsar, B.C. 30, after himself, as he regarded it as a fortunate month, being that in which he had gained several victories.

September (Septem, or 7)—September was the seventh month in the old Roman calendar.

October (Octo, or 8)—Eighth month of the old Roman year.

November (Novem, or 9)—November was the ninth month in the old Roman year.

December (Decem, or 10)—December was the tenth month of the early Roman year. About the 21st of this month the sun enters the Tropic of Capricorn, and forms the winter solstice.

Derivations of the German and English Days of the Week

Sunday, (Saxon) Sunnandaeg, day of the sun.

Monday, (German) Montag, day of the moon.

Tuesday, (Anglo-Saxon) Tiwesdaeg, from Tiw, the god of war.

Wednesday, (Anglo-Saxon) Wodnesdaeg, from Odin, the god of storms.

Thursday, (Danish) Thor, the god of thunder.

Friday, (Saxon) Frigedaeg, day of Freya, goddess of marriage.

Saturday, the day of Saturn, the god of time.

The names of the seven days of the week in the languages derived from the Latin originated with the Roman astronomers. They gave them the names of the sun, moon, and five planets, viz.: Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn.

THE ANCIENT ORACLES

The telling of fortunes and the predicting of the future in ancient times was the work of the Oracles. In the ancient religions the Oracle was believed to be a revelation made by some god or divinity in reply to the questions of men. The word “oracle” was applied both to the answer and to the sacred place where the answer was given. The responses were made either by priests and priestesses or by signs and portents.

At the Oracle of Dodona the responses were given either by the movements of leaves, the noise of brazen vessels, or the murmurings of the waters of a fountain. Usually springs or grottos of which the waters were known to have delirious effects were selected for the sites of the oracles. At Dydima the vapor of the water affected both the priestess and person who consulted her. At Delphi the priestess, who was called the “Pythia,” delivered her utterances from a tripod placed over a chasm, from which intoxicating vapors arose. In some of the oracles, incense and artificial fumigations were used.

The answers of the oracles were famous for their obscurity and lack of meaning. They were often susceptible of two or more meanings. When King Crœsus asked of the oracle whether he should make war against Alexander, the reply was: “If you make war you destroy a great kingdom.” Crœsus began the war thinking that he would destroy Alexander, but it was his own kingdom that he destroyed.

The responses of the Pythia were not considered authoritative till they had been submitted and approved by the presiding priest. Delphi was the most famous oracle and became the center of all the Greek oracles. Even the Romans believed in its power.

With the coming of Christianity, the oracles lost much of their influence. Eusebius affirms that Christ put an end to the reign of Satan on earth and thereafter the oracles became silent.

In Greece there were altogether twenty-two oracles to Apollo, which were consulted for various purposes. One was used exclusively for the interpretation of dreams, another for the foretelling of battles, still another was consulted by those who went into the Olympian games to find out whether they would be victorious. At Patræ sick persons came to inquire whether they would get well. At Nysa the priests would take patients and induce a cataleptic sleep, during which the sick man prescribed his own remedy.

It is easy to see why many of the utterances of the oracles came true. They appealed to the superstition of the primitive people, who took the replies as coming from their gods, and tried to live up to them. The will to see the prophecy fulfilled was often sufficient to make it come true.

Napoleon’s Oraculum

This well-known method of telling fortunes is exceedingly ancient, and was a favorite with Napoleon;—hence its name. The usual method was to mark down four rows of dots at random on a sheet of paper and then count them. If the first row had an uneven number of dots, one star was put in the first place, if an even number, two stars were put down, and so for each of the four rows. The resulting figure gave the key by which the chart was to be consulted. It often happened, however, that the questioner consciously or unconsciously regulated the number of dots to suit his purpose.

A more modern and strictly impartial way is the following: Take any book. Hold it tightly shut and stick a card at random between two of its pages. Open the book at those pages, note the first four words on the upper line of the left-hand page. Count the letters in these four words. If the first word has an even number place two dots in the first space, if odd, place only one dot. Then take the second word and place one or two dots in the same way, and so for the other two words. You will thus get a symbol that may look as follows:

or

or

.

These are called the Astral “Keys.” There are 16 possible constructions or keys. Now ask your question. Turn to the [Cabalistic Chart on page 35]. Decide on which of the 16 questions you want to ask. Note the number opposite that question. Run your finger along the top of the table till you find the Astral Key which you have just formed. At the junction of this column with the number line, you will find a mystic letter which tells you which of the oraculum tables to consult. For example: You want to ask the question, “Shall I recover my property?” This you find is No. 6 on the chart; the symbol is

. Find this symbol, run your finger down the column till it meets with the line of No. 6, and it gives you the mystic letter A. Turn to the oraculum table marked A and opposite the same symbol you will find the reply, “You will not recover your property.”

Instead of the book and card plan, four dice may be used in the same manner. The points indicating the even or uneven numbers of dots in the symbol.

Do not ask a question more than once in any one day. Always begin the search by reciting the formula:

“Oraculum, Oraculum, Tell true fortune, or be dumb.”

The following are unlucky days, on which none of the questions should be asked, or any adventure undertaken:

January 1, 2, 4, 6, 11, 12, 20; February 1, 17, 18; March 14, 16; April 10, 17, 18; May 7, 8; June 17; July 17, 21; August 20, 21; September 10, 18; October 6; November 6, 10; December 6, 11, 15.

ORACULUM TABLE

• 1. Shall I obtain my wish?
• 2. Success in my undertakings?
• 3. Shall I gain or lose my cause?
• 4. Shall I live in foreign parts?
• 5. Will the stranger return?
• 6. Shall I recover my property?
• 7. Will my friend be true?
• 8. Shall I have to travel?
• 9. Does the person love me?
• 10. Will the marriage be happy?
• 11. What sort of a wife or husband?
• 12. Will I have a son or daughter?
• 13. Will the patient recover?
• 14. Shall I speculate?
• 15. Will I be lucky?
• 16. What does my dream signify?

The Answers

A.
	What you desire you will shortly obtain.
	Trouble and sorrow will come to you.
	Be cautious in what you do today, or you will lose.
	Do not speculate.
	Your life will be spared.
	You will have a daughter, but a thankless one.
	Your mate will be virtuous and good-hearted.
	You will make enemies if you marry this person.
	Decline this Love, for it will not be constant.
	Don’t travel; it will not be to your advantage.
	A true and sincere friendship will continue.
	You will not recover your property.
	Yes, the stranger will soon return.
	Do not remove from where you are at present.
	The Lord will help you if your cause is good.
	You will be lucky.
B.
	Luck will come to you and will be coveted by others.
	Do not follow your desire for the present.
	A favor or kindness will come from some person.
	Beware of enemies who would defraud you.
	Only by the advice of an expert.
	The patient should be prepared for the worst.
	A son who will be a blessing.
	You will secure a rich partner.
	You will have prosperity thru this marriage.
	This love comes from an upright and sincere heart.
	God will protect you on your way.
	Beware of false and deceitful acquaintances.
	You will certainly recover your property.
	Unforeseen trouble prevents his return at present.
	Be prepared for a change.
	Be wise and careful or you will lose.
C.
	With the blessing of God you will be lucky.
	Unless you take expert advice you will be unlucky.
	If they are not extravagant your desires will be granted.
	Peace and plenty will come to you and friends.
	You may meet with trouble unless you are prepared.
	You will lose if you speculate.
	Health and prosperity will result.
	A daughter that will bring a fortune.
	The person is in middling circumstances but happy.
	Decline this marriage or you may regret it.
	Refuse further intercourse.
	Better stay at home and help your folks.
	A true and sincere friendship is at your command.
	That which you have lost is lost forever.
	Sickness prevents him from seeing you.
	Stay where you now are and you will be content.
D.
	You will obtain a fortune in another country.
	You will certainly gain if you have courage.
	God will change your misfortune into success and happiness.
	You may meet poverty and distress unless you change your ways.
	You will have many impediments in the accomplishment of your pursuits.
	Abandon all evil inclinations.
	Speculate—but cautiously.
	The patient’s illness will be lingering, but he will recover.
	A dutiful and handsome son will bless your union.
	Modest in circumstances but honest.
	Marriage will add to your prosperity.
	The person you love does not speak well of you.
	Your journey will be pleasant if guided by prudence.
	His heart is false. Beware!
	You may gain your property if you are cautious.
	Do not expect to see the stranger again. It is better so.
E.
	The stranger will not return to you.
	Pray to God and strive modestly. He will help you.
	You will gain what you seek by industry.
	Remain here among your family and you will do well.
	You will obtain your wishes soon.
	You have enemies who will endeavor to ruin you.
	An enemy is endeavoring to bring misfortune to you.
	Never speculate.
	The patient will soon recover. There is danger of a relapse.
	A daughter who will be honored and marry rich.
	Your partner will be fond of pleasure.
	Marriage may bring you to poverty, therefore be cautious.
	Their love is false to you and will harm you.
	Don’t travel for the present. It is dangerous.
	This person deserves to be respected.
	You will never recover the property you have lost. Be reconciled.
F.
	Employ a detective and you will recover your property.
	The stranger will never return.
	You will be successful in foreign countries.
	A great fortune will be yours. Wait patiently.
	Your indecision is a great hindrance to your success.
	Wait till next month. Your wishes are in vain at present.
	There is great danger and sorrow before you. Be courageous.
	Today is unlucky. Take no risks.
	Leave speculation to others.
	The patient’s recovery is assured.
	A fine boy will bring luck and joy.
	A worthy person and a fine fortune is to be yours.
	Do not let your intentions destroy your peace of mind.
	His love is true and constant. Guard it well.
	You will not have cause to repent it. Travel.
	You can trust this friend and never have cause for sorrow.
G.
	This friend will be faithful and true.
	Bear your loss with courage.
	He will return unexpectedly.
	If you stay at home.
	You will meet failure in your pursuits unless you economize.
	Heaven will bless you thru your friends.
	Not at the present time.
	You will get ahead of all enemies.
	It will be difficult for you to escape bad luck.
	If you speculate you will lose.
	The patient will recover after a week.
	A daughter and a son, both lucky.
	You will get an honest associate and prosper.
	This marriage may bring sorrow. Decline it.
	Do not yield to this love.
	You may be recalled by an unexpected event.
H.
	Go on your travels and see the world.
	Your so-called friend hates you. Beware of him.
	Your hopes to recover your property will soon be realized.
	An unforeseen affair prevents the stranger’s return.
	Your fortune will come in another land.
	You will do well to refuse.
	You will not succeed. Try something else.
	You will soon realize your wishes.
	Your fortune will change for the better soon.
	Your luck will soon improve. Have courage.
	A good time to speculate.
	The patient will soon be better.
	A healthy son will bless you.
	You will be married in a short time to a worthy man.
	Do not marry this person if you value your happiness.
	This love will continue until death.
I.
	Love is true, but will cause great misery.
	It will be foolish for you to travel at present.
	Your friend will be sincere and true.
	You will recover the stolen property soon.
	The traveler will return within a week.
	You will be more prosperous in foreign lands.
	Place your trust in God. He will give you happiness.
	Your future will shortly be changed for the better.
	You will succeed if you work hard.
	The misfortune which threatens will be prevented.
	Beware of false friends who seek to harm you.
	Speculate in moderation.
	The patient will gain health and strength again.
	She will have a daughter who will be a credit to her.
	You will marry a person for whom you will have little love.
	The marriage will come off according to your expectations.
K.
	You will be comfortable and happy after many trials.
	You will have a sincere love from an upright heart.
	You will prosper in your journey and return safely.
	You can rely on the friendship of this person.
	Your property is lost forever.
	The traveler will be absent for some time.
	You will have luck and happiness abroad.
	Yes, success for the present is in sight.
	You may succeed in your undertaking if you work hard.
	You will do well to change your intentions.
	There are mean persons who would harm you.
	Your circumstances will shortly mend. Be patient.
	Speculation is serious.
	The patient cannot live long.
	She will have a tall, handsome son.
	It will not be difficult for you to get a good partner.
L.
	You will get a successful partner.
	Good luck will attend this marriage.
	His love is changeable.
	You will be lucky in your travels.
	Love is true and sacred. You may rely on it.
	You will lose your property.
	The stranger will return with a fortune.
	You will have success at home.
	Your gain will not be worth while.
	Be cautious or you will meet with trouble.
	You will succeed according to your aspirations.
	You will get money soon.
	You will do well in spite of business.
	Speculation spells loss.
	The patient will recover in a month.
	She will have a tall, handsome daughter.
M.
	She will have a son who will gain wealth and honor.
	A partner with much money.
	The marriage will be lucky and prosperous.
	Party wishes to be yours only.
	A long journey will prove to your advantage.
	Do not place trust in the person.
	You will find your property at home.
	The traveler’s return is doubtful.
	You will succeed in France but not in Germany.
	You will get no gain.
	You may get more luck than you expect.
	Whatever your desires, you will speedily be gratified.
	Will be asked to a wedding soon.
	You will have no occasion to complain of ill-luck.
	Buy stocks, but not on margin.
	The patient’s recovery is slow.
N.
	The patient will recover, but will not live long.
	She will have a fair daughter.
	You will marry into a very rich family.
	By marriage you will gain much wealth.
	Await the time and you will not be disappointed.
	Stay at home.
	This person is a sincere well-wisher.
	You will not recover the lost goods.
	When abroad keep from gambling.
	You will soon have what you little expect.
	In this venture you will have great success.
	Be sensible and rejoice ever at that which is given you.
	Sorrow will depart and joy will return.
	Your luck will soon be at hand.
	Be cautious.
	The stranger will return in a year.
O.
	Don’t speculate.
	The patient’s recovery is assured.
	She will have a son who will become famous.
	You will get a sensible partner.
	Delay not your marriage; you will have happiness.
	Nobody loves you better.
	You may go ahead with confidence.
	A secret enemy is trying to deceive you.
	You will recover the stolen goods.
	The stranger will not return again.
	A woman will greatly increase your fortune.
	You will be cheated out of your earnings.
	You will be happy in the end.
	Fortune shuns you at present, but will come in time.
	You will soon hear agreeable news.
	There are troubles lurking about you.
P.
	Every day will bring you increased happiness.
	Beware of gambling.
	The patient will recover soon and live long.
	She will have a son and a daughter.
	Your partner will be rich and lucky.
	Your marriage will bring you much happiness.
	He or she loves you devotedly.
	Stay at home; you will not prosper otherwise.
	This friend will bring you good fortune.
	You will not get back your goods.
	He is ill and cannot come to you.
	Remain at home and depend upon your own industry.
	Prosperity is ordained to you. Be patient.
	Work, and don’t depend too much on luck.
	Your wish will be granted to you soon.
	Be very careful lest any accident befall you.
Q.
	Joy and happiness between friends is your lot.
	This day is lucky. Use it.
	He will yet earn a fortune, although he is now poor.
	Recovery is doubtful.
	She will have a son who will be a genius.
	A rich partner with a bad temper will be yours.
	You insure your happiness by wedding.
	He has great love for you, but wishes to conceal it.
	Go on your journey without fear. It will be lucky.
	He is inconsistent and deceitful.
	You will recover your property in a week.
	The stranger may return unexpectedly.
	You will dwell abroad in comfort.
	You will surely prosper if you are modest.
	You will soon enjoy plenty.
	Be contented with your present fortune.

FORTUNE-TELLING BY CARDS

The Origin and History of Playing Cards.

The history of playing cards extends back five hundred years, and various stories and theories have been mooted as to how and by whom they were first introduced into Europe. Many Eastern nations—notably those of India, China, Chaldea and Egypt—possessed cards for divination and playing purposes which differed both in design and use from those known in Europe at an early date. It seems from ancient manuscripts that the wise men of the East regarded cards with great veneration and ascribed to them mysterious powers. They considered them mediums of revelation from the celestial powers.

Many authorities hold that playing cards were invented by Europeans. It is certain that they were known in Italy as early as 1379, and that the Moors and Saracens introduced them into Spain at an earlier date. The first cards were called “Nabis,” and the Hebrew word “Nabi” means to prophesy. This gives weight to the theory that the original intention of cards was for purposes of divination.

The earliest cards of which we have any definite knowledge were called “Tarots,” which are supposed to have been the invention of a Jewish astrologer and cabalist. Various explanations are given as to the name. The science and divination by means of these cards were supposed to be found in the Egyptian “Book of Thoth,” which Moses learned in the Egyptian temples and of which he guarded the secret jealously. Outside of a few packs in some of the museums, there are no tarot cards to be found. The pictures on them represented priests, popes, jugglers, emperors, devils and other characters. Later on numerals were added to the symbolic cards so that games could be played with them. At the beginning of the fifteenth century, Venice had games of cards composed of 78 cards, 22 containing symbols and 56 numerals. Later the size of the pack was reduced to 52 cards.

Suits and Symbols

There have always been four suits in use, but the symbols used had varied in different countries. Originally they were cups, money, swords and clubs. These are still retained in Italian and Spanish cards. Old German cards have acorns, leaves, hearts and bells. The French cards used spades and clubs, hearts and diamonds. The word “spade” comes from the Italian word meaning a sword. The club sign was adopted from the three-leaf clover. Many of the packs used last century were very costly and artistic. They were painted by hand to represent historic characters.

Mystic Meaning

To many people a pack of cards comes next in importance to the Bible. To others they are supposed to be the devil’s own handbooks of destruction. They have exercised an irresistible fascination over the minds of men and women of all ages. A great interest attaches to the many possible combinations to be made from the cards in a pack. It has been pointed out that—

The fifty-two cards represent the 52 weeks in the year.

Thirteen cards in each suit represent the 13 lunar months, and the 13 weeks in each quarter.

The four suits represent the four seasons of the year.

The twelve court cards represent the 12 signs of the Zodiac.

The Charm and Power of Cards

We have nothing to do in this book with cards used for gambling purposes, but as instruments of Cartomancy we find them full of charm and interest. Every person has a certain amount of superstition in his nature and desires to take a look into the dim and mysterious future. No one need be ashamed of confessing a certain amount of interest in the unseen and occult. Strange coincidences are happening all the time, and there are many inexplicable occurrences that meet us at every turn. Educated men and women are taking an interest in the occult to a greater extent than ever before, altho in the past the great statesmen and famous women of France, even the great Napoleon himself, were believers in the power of cards to foretell the future. Divination by cards is of great antiquity and is still as popular as ever. Formerly it was connected with astrologers’ incantation and religious practices. Now, however, it is indulged in principally as a means of amusement. Of course no one need be warned against the danger of taking a pack of cards as a guide in matters of importance requiring judgment and discretion.

What the Cards Signify

There are several systems of telling fortunes by cards. In each the meaning of the cards and the mode of laying them out differ. The meaning of a card is modified when the card is reversed. As our modern packs are practically the same, looking at them from either end, it is well to mark the cards so that you can tell which is the top and which is the bottom. This could be done before starting to use the pack.

Meaning of the Various Cards.

Hearts are especially connected with the work of Cupid and Hymen. The suit has also close reference to affairs of the home and to both the domestic and social sides of life.

Diamonds are representative of financial matters, small and great, with a generally favorable signification.

Clubs stand for prosperity, a happy home life with intelligent pleasures and successful undertakings.

Spades forebode evil. They speak of sickness, death, monetary losses and anxieties, separation from friends and dear ones. They are also representative of love, appealing exclusively to the senses.

Meaning of the Hearts.

Ace.—A love letter, good news; (reversed) a removal or a visit from a friend.

King.—Fair man of generous disposition; (reversed) a disappointing person.

Queen.—Fair, good-natured woman; (reversed) she has had an unhappy love affair.

Knave.—A young bachelor devoted to enjoyment; (reversed) a military lover with a grievance.

Ten.—Antidote to bad cards, happiness and success; (reversed) passing worries.

Nine.—The wish card, good luck; (reversed) short sorrow.

Eight.—Thoughts of marriage, affections of a fair person; (reversed) unresponsiveness.

Seven.—Calm, content; (reversed) boredom, satiety.

Meaning of the Diamonds.

Ace.—A letter, an offer of marriage; (reversed) evil tidings.

King.—A very fair or white-haired man; a soldier by profession, and of a deceitful turn of mind; (reversed) a treacherous schemer.

Queen.—A fair woman, given to gossip and wanting in refinement; (reversed) a rather spiteful flirt.

Knave.—Subordinate official, who is untrustworthy; (reversed) a mischief-maker.

Ten.—Traveling or a removal; (reversed) ill luck will attend the step.

Nine.—Vexation, hindrances; (reversed) domestic wrangling, or disagreement between lovers.

Eight.—Love passages; (reversed) blighted affections.

Seven.—Unkindly chaff, cynicism; (reversed) stupid and unfounded slander.

Meaning of the Clubs.

Ace.—Good luck, letters or papers relating to money, pleasant tidings; (reversed) short-lived happiness, a tiresome correspondence.

King.—A dark man, warm-hearted and true as a friend, straight in his dealings; (reversed) good intentions frustrated.

Queen.—A dark woman, loving but hasty, and bearing no malice; (reversed) harassed by jealousy.

Knave.—A ready-witted young man, clever at his work and ardent in his love; (reversed) irresponsible and fickle.

Ten.—Prosperity and luxury; (reversed) a sea voyage.

Nine.—An unlooked-for inheritance, money acquired under a will; (reversed) a small, friendly gift.

Eight.—Love of a dark man or woman which, if accepted and reciprocated, will bring joy and well-being; (reversed) an unworthy affection calculated to cause trouble.

Seven.—Trifling financial matters; (reversed) money troubles.

Meaning of the Spades.

Ace.—Emotional enjoyment; (reversed) news of a death, sorrow.

King.—A widower, an unscrupulous lawyer, impossible as a friend, and dangerous as an enemy; (reversed) the desire to work evil without the power.

Queen.—Widow, a very dark woman; (reversed) an intriguing, spiteful woman.

Knave.—Legal or medical student, wanting in refinement of mind and manners; (reversed) a treacherous character, fond of underhand measures.

Ten.—Grief, loss of freedom; (reversed) passing trouble or illness.

Nine.—A bad omen, news of failure or death; (reversed) loss of one near and dear by death.

Eight.—Coming illness; (reversed) an engagement canceled or a rejected proposal, dissipation.

Seven.—Everyday worries, or a resolve taken; (reversed) silly stratagems in love-making.

Combinations of Court Cards.

Four Aces.—When these fall together they imply danger, financial loss, separation from friends, love troubles. The evil is mitigated in proportion to the number of them that are reversed.

Three Aces.—Passing troubles relieved by good news, faithlessness of a lover. If reversed, they mean foolish excess.

Two Aces.—These mean union: if Hearts and Clubs, it will be for good; if Diamonds and Spades, for evil, probably the outcome of jealousy. If reversed, the object of the union will fail.

Four Kings.—Honors, preferment, good appointments. If reversed, the good things will be of less value, but will arrive earlier.

Three Kings.—Serious matters will be taken in hand with the best result, unless any of the three cards be reversed, when it will be doubtful.

Two Kings.—Co-operation in business, upright conduct, and prudent enterprises to be crowned with success. Each one reversed represents an obstacle. Both reversed spell failure.

Four Queens.—A social gathering which may be spoilt by one or more being reversed.

Three Queens.—Friendly visits. If reversed, scandal, gossip and possibly bodily danger.

Two Queens.—Interchanged, secrets betrayed, a meeting between friends. When both are reversed, there will be suffering for the inquirer resulting from his own acts. Only one reversed, means rivalry.

Four Knaves.—Jolly conviviality. Any of them reversed lessens the evil.

Three Knaves.—Worries and vexations from acquaintances, slander calling the inquirer’s honor in question. If reversed, it foretells a passage-at-arms with a social inferior.

Two Knaves.—Loss of goods. If both are reversed, the trouble is imminent; if one only, it is near.

Combinations of Plain Cards.

Four Tens.—Good fortune, success. The more there are reversed, the greater number of obstacles in the way.

Three Tens.—Ruin brought about by lawsuits. When reversed, the evil is decreased.

Two Tens.—Unexpected luck, which may be connected with a change of occupation. If one be reversed, it will come soon; if both are reversed, it is distant.

Four Nines.—Unexpected events. The number that are reversed stand for the time to elapse.

Three Nines.—Health, wealth and happiness. If reversed, it means financial difficulties caused by imprudence.

Two Nines.—Prosperity and contentment accompanied by business matters. If reversed, small worries.

Four Eights.—Attending a journey or the taking up of a new position. If reversed, undisturbed stability.

Three Eights.—Thoughts of love and marriage, new family ties. If reversed, flirtation and foolishness.

Two Eights.—Pleasures and passing love fancies. If reversed, disappointments.

Four Sevens.—Schemes and contention and opposition. If reversed, failure of same.

Three Sevens.—Loss of friends, ill-health, remorse. If reversed, slight ailments or unpleasant reaction.

Two Sevens.—Mutual love and marriage. If reversed, faithlessness or regret.

General Information.

When a number of court cards fall together it is a sign of hospitality, festive social intercourse, and gaiety of all kinds.

Married people who seek to read the cards must represent their own life partner by the king or queen of the suit they have chosen for themselves, regardless of anything else. For example, a very dark man, the King of Spades, must consider his wife represented by the Queen of Spades.

Bachelors and spinsters may choose cards to personate their lovers and friends.

A court card placed between two cards of the same grade—for instance, two nines, two sevens, etc.—shows that the one represented by that card is threatened.

Should a military man consult the cards he must always be represented by the King of Diamonds.

It is always essential to cut cards with the left hand, there being a long-established idea that it is more intimately connected with the heart than the right. A round table is generally preferred by those who are in the habit of practising cartomancy. It is a matter of opinion as to whether the cards speak with the same clearness and accuracy when consulted by the inquirer without a fortune-teller. The services of an expert are generally supposed to be of great advantage, even when people have mastered the rudiments of cartomancy themselves.

Telling One’s Fortune with Twenty-one Cards

The Italian Method.

Thirty-two cards are actually required for this method, altho only 21 of them are used. After shuffling the cards and cutting with the left hand, the fortune-teller counts off the first 11 cards and lays them aside. From the 21 which are left he takes the top card and lays it apart, then he lays out the other 20 on the table before him. One card must represent the inquirer, either a knave or a queen, according to the sex. If this card is not among the 20 cards on the table the pack must be dealt over. The meaning of the cards must then be considered; if any set of 2, 3 or more of a kind occur their meaning should be read also, as it may modify the general interpretation of the rest. The 20 cards should be read from left to right continuously to let each card continue the meaning of the one before. The cards must then be put together again and shuffled and cut as before. The top card is again laid aside and the others divided into 3 packs, of which 2 contain 7 cards each and the last only 6 cards. The inquirer chooses one of the packs, which is next turned with the face up and one after the other the cards are to be read according to their significance. This operation must be repeated 3 times.

The following will give an example of how these cards are to be manipulated:

Let us take the Knave of Clubs as representing the inquirer, and the 21 cards selected are the following in their regular order: King of Spades, Queen of Hearts (reversed), Ace of Hearts, Knave of Clubs, Ace of Spades (reversed), Ace of Clubs, Knave of Hearts, King of Hearts, Queen of Spades (reversed), Nine of Hearts, Knave of Diamonds, Ten of Spades, Ace of Diamonds (reversed), King of Diamonds, Seven of Diamonds, Eight of Diamonds, Eight of Spades (reversed), Seven of Clubs (reversed), Nine of Clubs (reversed), Nine of Diamonds. The Surprise placed apart.

On examining this list carefully we find there are 4 Aces, which indicate danger and financial loss. The fact that one of them is reversed shows that the trouble is somewhat lightened.

There are 3 Kings, which indicate that important matters will be undertaken and carried thru successfully by the inquirer.

There are 2 Queens, both reversed, which show that the young man may suffer thru his own faults.

There are 3 Knaves, which mean more worries and vexations thru which the inquirer’s honor may be at stake.

Three Nines, however, are indicative of happiness and wealth, altho there will be difficulties to overcome.

The 2 Eights indicate some love interest and flirtation.

And the 2 Sevens speak of mutual love and marriage, altho one being reversed adds an element of regret.

We will now follow the cards as they lie before us from left to right:

The King of Spades is an unscrupulous man who is a dangerous enemy and will cause trouble.

The Queen of Hearts, reversed, speaks of a woman who, while good-natured, has had an unlucky love affair and on whom the inquirer has set his heart.

The Ace of Hearts indicates that a love letter containing good news will be sent to her by the inquirer.

The Knave of Clubs, a clever young fellow, is mixed up in the affair, but some grief may affect his health as indicated by the Ace of Spades, while the Ace of Clubs, coming immediately after, shows that this sorrow may have something to do with money matters.

The 3 court cards which follow are indicative of a good time in which the inquirer will have to deal with the Knave of Hearts, who is a young bachelor devoted to enjoyments, the King of Hearts a man of generous disposition, and the Queen of Spades, reversed, a dark, intriguing woman.

The Nine of Hearts shows that the inquirer will have good luck and pleasure, but the Knave of Diamonds, following immediately after, shows that an untrustworthy friend is trying to bring him to trouble.

The Ten of Spades means considerable worry and is followed by the Ace of Diamonds, reversed, which also indicates bad tidings in which the King of Diamonds, an old soldier with a deceitful turn of mind and who has a grievance against the inquirer, will have recourse to scandal and slander, as indicated by the Seven of Diamonds.

Next comes the Eight of Diamonds, which shows that the inquirer will indulge in love-making, but he is in for considerable worry as his offer of marriage will be rejected.

The Seven of Clubs tells him that money matters will also cause worry until the Nine of Clubs, reversed, indicates that a gift of money will relieve the situation somewhat. However, there will still be vexatious hindrances, as indicated by the Nine of Diamonds.

The “Surprise” may now be turned up, and contains, let us say, the King of Clubs—a warm-hearted, true friend, straight in his dealings, thru whom happiness and prosperity may come to the inquirer.

The Significance of the Three Packs.

As before stated, after having read these cards as a continuous message, the cards must be again shuffled and cut into three packs. The inquirer is asked to choose one of the packs. We will take it for granted that he takes the middle pack, containing 7 cards. Let us say, for example, that this pack contains the following cards: Knave of Diamonds, Seven of Diamonds, Ace of Clubs, Queen of Spades (reversed), Ace of Spades, Ace of Diamonds, Eight of Diamonds. Reading these cards, we notice three Aces, which indicate a lot of trouble—possibly a faithless lover—to be followed by good news. The Knave of Diamonds, an untrustworthy friend mixed up in a scandal which is shown by the Seven of Diamonds, and is brought about by a letter relating to money, as shown by the Ace of Clubs. A widow with an intriguing mind, shown by the Queen of Spades, has something to do in this trouble. The Ace of Spades foretells enjoyment—probably an offer of marriage or a letter, as indicated by the Ace of Diamonds. The Eight of Diamonds foretells a happy marriage after all these troubles.

The inquirer now selects another pack, which is to be read in the same manner, and finally the third pack is to be similarly interpreted.

The French System.

Thirty-two cards are required, rejecting all under the Sevens. They must be shuffled and cut as usual and divided into two packs of 16 each. The inquirer chooses one of the packs, and the first card is laid aside for the “Surprise.” The remaining 15 cards are turned face upward and laid on the table from left to right. A certain card must be selected to represent the inquirer. And this must be in the pack he selects. If not, the division must be gone over again until this card is found in the selected pack.

Method of Reading.

If there are any 2, 3 or 4 of a kind their explanation must first be given. Next start from the card representing the inquirer and count in groups of 7 from right to left. Next, pair the end cards together and read their meaning. After this shuffle the 15 cards again and divide them into three packs of 5 cards each. The top card of each is first removed and placed with the other which has been set apart as the “Surprise.” This will leave three packs of 4 cards each. Inquirer then chooses one of the packs, and the 4 cards are laid out on the table from left to right and their meaning is read. The left-hand pack is “for the house,” the right-hand pack “for those who do not expect,” and the remaining pack is “for the surprise.”

Let us suppose, for example, that the inquirer, being a woman, is represented by the Queen of Clubs. She chooses the middle of the three packs, which contains the Knave of Clubs, Eight of Diamonds (reversed), Eight of Hearts, Queen of Clubs. These will be read as follows: “A clever young man is ardent in his love and is flirting with the inquirer. He has thoughts of marriage in which the inquirer plays a very important part. And the prospects are favorable.”

The next pack, which is “for the house,” may have the following cards: Knave of Spades, Ace of Spades, Knave of Hearts, King of Spades. They are read as follows: There are 3 Spades, which indicate disappointment. Two Knaves coming together indicate loss of goods and other trouble. The Knave of Spades indicates a legal gentleman of not very refined character who is employed by his master, an unscrupulous lawyer, as shown by the King of Spades, and who is an enemy of the inquirer. A young bachelor devoted to pleasure, however, will help the inquirer out of difficulty. The next pack, which is for “those who do not expect,” is, we will say, composed of the Queen of Hearts, Ten of Spades, Ace of Clubs, Nine of Clubs. These indicate that a fair-haired lady, who has had considerable grief, will bring letters relating to money to the inquirer, possibly an unlooked-for inheritance which will change the career of the inquirer. In the case of a merchant, it may mean new customers.

Finally comes the pack “The Surprise,” in which we will find The Ace of Hearts, Queen of Spades, Nine of Diamonds, Ten of Hearts. These are read as follows: “A love letter with the best of news will be received. A dark-haired lady will throw hindrances and trouble into the path of the inquirer, in spite of which happiness and success will be the final outcome.”

An English System of Telling the Past, Present and Future.

We will present an easy and generally accepted method of telling fortunes by means of cards. Thirty-two cards are required, which are shuffled and cut in the usual way. After being cut, the top card of the lower pack and the bottom card of the upper pack are laid aside and form the “Surprise,” then the packs are placed one upon the other. This leaves 30 cards, which are dealt into three equal parts; the pack at the left representing the past, the one in the middle the present, and the one to the right the future.

The man or woman wishing to know what Fortune has in store is called the “Inquirer”; he is represented by a card (supposing him to be a man) which we will say is the Knave of Hearts. Let us now suppose that the ten cards representing the past are as follows: