Would you like to read some more.......

[splodge0]

Well incase we get bored from the 23rd onwards...............

A wide, shallow cup is the best kind to use for tea-leaf
divination--white if possible. A narrow cup adds to the seer's
difficulties, as the tea-leaves cannot be plainly seen. Small cups, too,
are objectionable for the same reason, and a fluted cup is even worse. A
plain, even surface is required, with no pattern of any kind, as this
has a tendency to confuse the symbols. Indian tea and the cheaper
mixtures, which contain so much dust and twigs are of no use for reading
a fortune, as they cannot form into pictures and symbols that can easily
be distinguished.

Those who desire to have their tea-leaves interpreted should leave about
a teaspoonful of tea at the bottom of the cup. It should then be taken
in the left hand, and turned three times from left with a quick swing.
Then very gently, slowly, and with care, turn it upside down over the
saucer, leaving it there for a minute, so that all the moisture may
drain away.

Some divinators of the tea-leaves insist on a concentration of the mind
during this turning of the cup, as do many cartomantes whilst the cards
are being shuffled; others prefer the mind to be as far as possible free
from any definite thought or desire, simply allowing it to ..........

Shall I carry on?:colour:

[Boris]

Shall I carry on?
Bored were you this evening Admiral ?

Maybe you could put it into practice and read my fortune. Wednesdays Lottery numbers would come in handy 'cos I didn't win last night
:bawling:

[Romantic Old Bird]

The source of teas loved by people around the world -from Assam, Darjeeling and English Breakfast to oolong, Masala and greentea- is the leaf of the Camellia sinensis, a shrub native to southern China and now cultivated in China, India, Japan and other parts of the world. But how did those bright green leaves evolve into some of the world's best-known beverages?



Although Buddhists believe that tea was discovered by the Buddha himself, a legend from ancient China infers that tea was discovered by an emperor some 5,000 years ago. This emperor, who was known for his wisdom in the ways of science, believed that the safest way to drink water was by first boiling it. One day during a journey, the emperor noticed that leaves had fallen into his boiling water. The leaves turned the water a light-brown color and gave off an enticing aroma. Filled with curiosity, the monarch took a sip of the brew and was pleasantly surprised by its excellent flavor.
Whether or not this story is true, the fact remains that tea has been enjoyed by the Chinese for centuries. Scholars hailed the brew as a cure for a variety of ailments. The nobility considered the consumption of good tea as a mark of their status. The common people simply enjoyed its flavor.


One of the earliest known references to green tea in Japan is in a text written by a Buddhist monk in the early ninth century. Japan was in the midst of its Heian Period (A.D. 794-1185), a time of peace and prosperity during which many aspects of Chinese culture and religion were introduced.
Green tea immediately became a staple among cultured people in Japan, a brew for the gentry and the Buddhist priesthood. Seeds were brought from China, marking the beginning of domestic cultivation, and as production grew tea became increasingly accessible, though still a privilege enjoyed mostly by the upper classes.
The tea ceremony as we know it today was developed over several centuries by Zen Buddhist monks took the form it retains today under the guidance of the monk Sen-no Rikyu (1522-1591). The warrior class, which rose to political prominence after the Heian Period, also embraced the beverage. In fact, many of the most important negotiations among feudal clan leaders were carried out in the austere and serene setting of the tea ceremony.
Eventually, green tea became available to the masses, making it the nation's most popular beverage

:spin2:

[Boris]

CHEERS !:wavey:

[Romantic Old Bird]

Tasseomancy

A divinatory form of fortune-telling by reading tea leaves. It is also known as tasseography. Tasseomancy originated in the Middle Ages stemming from ceroscopy and molybdomancy. In the 17th century, the West Dutch Indies merchants introduced tea from the Orient. Tea drinking became a popular custom which gave rise to the divination of tea leaves that remained in the bottom of the cup.

Tasseomancy is largely dependent on psychic intuition. Tea is poured into a cup without the use of a strainer. The one seeking psychic help, the inquirer, consumes all of the tea in the cup. If any moisture remains it is shaken out onto a napkin.

The leaves remain in the bottom of the cup which the diviner observes to see what patterns are formed. A letter, heart shape, or a ring might be observed. There are some standard symbolisms which are observed when interpreting the patterns: snake (enmity or falsehood), spade (good fortune through industry), mountain (journey or hindrance), house (change, success).

Another method is to leave a little moisture in the cup. This allows the leaves or dregs to be swished around. The cup is the upturned into the saucer. The reader picks up the cup and begins examining the formation of the dregs. As in the above described method, the dregs can form patterns such as letters, numbers, geometric designs, straight or wavy lines or shapes which resemble animals, birds or objects. Again, various symbols have particular meanings: straight lines indicate careful planning and peace of mind, while a cup shape indicates love and harmony. Time frames are also indicated by estimating the proximity of the leaves to the rim. Dregs closer to the rim and handle represent the immediate future, while those at the cup's bottom indicate the far future. Some diviners say they can only predict twenty-four hours into the future.

Due to technical modernization tea bags have arrived, but readers have circumvented this by cutting the bags and dropping the leaves into the cup. In some instances coffee grounds are used, but the practice is less common.

Italians, in the 18th century, claimed they invented the coffee-ground form of the divination. Also, they believed the prophecies came from demons so the diviners recited incantation during their practices such as: "Aqua boraxit venias carajos," "Fixitur et patricam explinabit tornare," and "Hax verticalines pax Fantas marobum, max destinatus, veida porol." It was believed that if such incantations were done incorrectly, the reading would be inaccurate.

[Boris]

Well can YOU tell me the numbers to WEDNESDAY'S lottery draw ?


AAWWWW SHUCKS !:bawling:

[Sticks]

What about those of us who like the occasional cup of Horlicks :conf:

[splodge0]

ftp://ftp.mirror.ac.uk/sites/metalab.unc.edu/pub/docs/books/gutenberg/etext04/tfbtl10.txt

CONTENTS


CHAPTER

I. INTRODUCTION TO THE DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES

II. PRACTICE AND METHOD OF READING THE CUP

III. GENERAL THEORIES IN READING THE CUP

IV. DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES AS AN AMUSEMENT
AND AS A MORE SERIOUS STUDY

V. SOME HINTS FOR DIVINERS. REMARKABLE INSTANCES OF PROPHECY
BY THE TEA-LEAVES

VI. WRITING IN THE TEA-LEAVES. SOME FREQUENT SYMBOLS

VII. THE "NELROS" CUP. TWO EXAMPLE READINGS OF ITS SIGNS

A DICTIONARY OF SYMBOLS

SOME COMBINATIONS OF SYMBOLS AND THEIR MEANING

SOME EXAMPLE CUPS WITH THEIR INTERPRETATIONS






TELLING FORTUNES BY

TEA-LEAVES




CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION TO THE DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES


At no time in the history of the world has there been such earnest
searching for light and knowledge in all matters relating to Psychic
Phenomena as in the present day. The desire to investigate some new
disclosure has resulted in yet other discoveries. Such will be handed on
in their various forms to be studied and used by those who seek to
learn.

Few subjects need more patience than those dealing with Psychology. Even
those who put their knowledge to a practical use in such studies as
divination by tea-leaves, must still plod patiently along a path thickly
strewn with new knowledge. The powers of clairvoyance, for instance,
cannot be forced or hurried; such arbitrary laws as time have no meaning
for the subconscious self, therefore the need for hurry does not exist.

I was once told by a very mediumistic woman that she had sat in the same
room at the same time for an hour every day for seven years, because she
"wished to develop Clairvoyance." Here was patience indeed! In some
manifestations of the clairvoyant powers within us, it is spontaneous,
the closing of the eyes to shut out all material surroundings being all
that is necessary to bring a vision of what is happening, or shortly to
happen, possibly hundreds of miles away.

In all dreams the clairvoyant powers are spontaneous; but for the
development of clairvoyance at will, great perseverance is necessary.
Its interests and powers are unlimited, so that it is well worth the
patience and time spent upon it.

In the use of tea-leaves as a means of divination, the more developed
the "clear sight," the more interesting and accurate will be the
interpretation. Practice is most necessary, especially for those who
have less natural clairvoyance than others.

The desire for knowledge on all Psychic matters has led to an increased
demand for various methods of bringing into symbols and pictures that
hidden knowledge of the present and the future. That this knowledge can
be translated to us symbolically is apparent to everyone--who could
doubt it, and still believe in anything at all?

Tea-leaves are habitually used by many people as a means of divination.
To some it is an easier method than the cards, there is less to
memorise, or the crystal.

There is in Paris a famous clairvoyant who always uses tea-leaves as the
medium for her powers of divination. Some are inclined to jeer at the
fortune in the teacup, but if the language of symbolism is rightly
understood, the medium through which it is seen matters little.

Tea-leaves have the advantage of being simple, inexpensive, and within
the reach of everyone. It cannot be claimed that the cult is of the
greatest antiquity; for although it seems to have been used in China
from very early times, tea was not brought into Europe until about the
middle of the sixteenth century. For many years after its introduction
into this country, tea was far too costly to be used except by a
comparatively small proportion of the population. It has, however,
proved its extreme usefulness as a means of divination, as well as its
merits as a beverage, for close upon three centuries.

It is a very favourite method with the Highlanders, where it is
customary for the "guid wife" to read in her cup of tea at breakfast the
events she may look for during the day. Simple though they may probably
be, there are to be seen in the tea-leaves, a letter, a parcel, a
visitor, a wedding, and so on. It is said that no Highland seer would
take money for making prognostications as to the future. This, no doubt,
is one good reason for their powers as clairvoyants.

It is a misfortune that clairvoyance should ever have to come into the
material necessities of money transactions, as it tends to mar the clear
vision.

It is said by some that tea-leaves can foretell the events for
twenty-four hours only. As clairvoyance has no restrictions as to time
or space, I cannot see how it can be thus laid down as a fact that it is
limited to man-made laws of time! Certainly there is much evidence of
the "tea leaves" being capable of foreseeing events of an important
nature at a considerable distance ahead.

One of the most difficult points in interpreting visions of clairvoyance
is the time element; simply because time, as we know it, does not exist.
The intuitive faculty is needed for any accurate definition of time, so
important to us in our present conditions, so absolutely unimportant to
the subconscious self. Let us decide at once, then, that divination by
tea-leaves may, and often does, extend to a further vision than that of
the twenty-four hours. Much depends upon the methods used.

Our individual past, quite apart from the arbitrary laws of heredity,
makes the road of our future. Possibly this may account for the curious
fact that in dreams the setting is often in childhood's surroundings,
while the dream itself is obviously of the present or the future. This
shows how the first beginnings of the event which is to come were
brought about. It is somewhat like unwinding a cotton reel!

There are, no doubt, some who look upon the tea-leaves merely as a form
of amusement, and who entertain their friends in that way. Well, it is a
harmless amusement, and is often useful at a very dull tea party! But
for those who take it seriously, and regard it as one of the many means
of divination, it will be treated with the respect due to such matters.

As in other forms of divination, so with the reading of the tea-cup, a
great deal depends on the seer. Those who are naturally clairvoyant will
read many events and scenes in the cup which would be passed over by
others not so gifted. Even without this "clear sight," however, the
tea-leaves may be read by anyone who has learned the principles and the
symbolic meanings given in this book. With a certain amount of intuition
and imagination, the tea-cups may be most successfully used to reveal
the future.




CHAPTER II

PRACTICE AND METHOD


A wide, shallow cup is the best kind to use for tea-leaf
divination--white if possible. A narrow cup adds to the seer's
difficulties, as the tea-leaves cannot be plainly seen. Small cups, too,
are objectionable for the same reason, and a fluted cup is even worse. A
plain, even surface is required, with no pattern of any kind, as this
has a tendency to confuse the symbols. Indian tea and the cheaper
mixtures, which contain so much dust and twigs are of no use for reading
a fortune, as they cannot form into pictures and symbols that can easily
be distinguished.

Those who desire to have their tea-leaves interpreted should leave about
a teaspoonful of tea at the bottom of the cup. It should then be taken
in the left hand, and turned three times from left with a quick swing.
Then very gently, slowly, and with care, turn it upside down over the
saucer, leaving it there for a minute, so that all the moisture may
drain away.

Some divinators of the tea-leaves insist on a concentration of the mind
during this turning of the cup, as do many cartomantes whilst the cards
are being shuffled; others prefer the mind to be as far as possible free
from any definite thought or desire, simply allowing it to dwell on such
abstract subjects as flowers or the weather. Personally, I advocate this
for both systems of divination; it enables the subconscious mind to
assert itself unhindered, whilst the normal mind is in abeyance.

The turning of the cup before inverting it over the saucer is equivalent
to the shuffling of the cards. It is as a direct result of those few
seconds turning that the pictures and signs are created, the
subconscious mind directing the hand holding the cup. The following
simple ritual is all that is necessary to those consulting the
tea-leaves.

The cup to be read is held by the seer and turned about as necessary, so
that the symbols may be read without disturbing them. This is important,
but no disturbance will take place if the moisture has been properly
drained away. The handle of the cup represents the consultant, also the
home, or, if the consultant be away from home the present abode.

It is necessary to have a starting point in the cup for the purpose of
indicating events approaching near to, or far distant from, the person
consulting. The leaves near the rim denote such things as may be
expected to occur quickly; those directly beneath the handle indicate
present and immediate happenings; those on the sides of the cup suggest
more distant events; whilst those at the bottom deal with the far
distant future.

This method of fixing the time, coupled with intuition, renders it
possible to give a consultant some idea as to when an event may be
expected; but if there be no intuitive sense of time, it will be found
wiser not to be too positive.

The turning of the cup and the draining of the moisture having been
carried out as directed, the tea-leaves will be found distributed at the
sides and bottom of the cup.

For those who wish to use the saucer as a further means of divination,
the following suggestions will be useful.

There must be a definite point to represent the consultant, and for this
reason the saucer is usually rejected. There is also the objection that
it is more difficult to manipulate in the turning. Nevertheless, it is
found to give excellent results, and, if the cup is bare of events, it
is useful to be able to find information in the saucer.

First of all, then, to determine the position of the consultant. Take
the centre of the saucer for this purpose. The circle round it
represents the home, or if the consultant is away from home, the present
abode, and also events near at hand. The more distant circle indicates
those things which are not to be expected for some time. The outer
circle and rim suggest events as yet in the misty future.

When the saucer is used as an additional means of seeking knowledge of
coming events, after the symbols in the cup have been exhausted, it will
often be found that this secondary divination confirms or enlarges upon
that which has already been foretold in the cup.

The moisture and leaves drained from the cup, having remained in the
saucer, should be turned by the consultant three times with the same
swirling motion as for the cup, and the moisture carefully poured away.
The saucer should be held inverted for a few seconds, otherwise when it
is placed upright, the remaining moisture will disturb the tea-leaves.
The symbols are read in exactly the same way as in the cup, the only
difference being the positions representing the consultant, the home,
and the indications of time. These have already been explained.




CHAPTER III

GENERAL THEORIES IN READING THE CUP


At first sight the interior of the cup will show the leaves scattered
about apparently haphazard and with no arrangement; just a jumble of
tea-leaves and nothing more. In reality they have come to their
positions and have taken on the shapes of the symbols for which they
stand, by the guidance of the subconscious mind directing the hand in
the turning of the cup.

The various shapes and the meanings to be attached to them will at first
be puzzling to beginners. A good deal of practice is necessary before
the tea-leaf symbols can be accurately interpreted at a glance. That,
however, will come later, and in time it will be as easy as reading a
book.

If you wish to be a proficient reader of the tea-leaves, practise
constantly this interpretation of the shapes and positions of the
leaves. Take a cup and follow out the simple instructions for the
turning and draining of it, and then carefully study the result.

It is an excellent plan to make a rough copy of the leaves as they
present themselves to you in each cup, making notes of the various
meanings.

Do not feel dismayed if, when you begin looking at the tea-leaves, you
are unable to discover in them anything definitely symbolic. It is
certain that nothing will be found if the seer is feeling nervous! Keep
a calm, open mind, and do not be in a hurry, for it is under such
conditions only that a clear reading of the leaves will be possible. In
some cases the symbols are more easily read than in others. Much depends
upon the consultant.

The gift of imagination (by no means to be confused with invention) is
of the greatest possible importance in discerning the symbols which are
of such endless shapes and variety. The seer has to find in the forms of
the tea-leaves a resemblance, sometimes it may be but a faint one, to
natural objects, _e.g._, trees, houses, flowers, bridges, and so
forth. Figures of human beings and animals will frequently be seen, as
will squares, triangles, circles, and also the line of fate.

These signs may be large or small, and the importance of them must be
judged by their relative size and position. Suppose, for instance, that
a small cross should be at the bottom of the cup, the only one to be
seen, the seer would predict that a trifling vexation or a tiresome
little delay must be expected; but not for the present, as it is at the
bottom of the cup. An alphabetical list of symbols is given later on, so
it is not necessary to define them here. The various points of a more
general character, however, must be studied before it is possible to
give an accurate reading.

It will constantly be found that the stems, isolated leaves, or small
groups of leaves, form a letter of the alphabet, sometimes a number.
These letters and numbers have meanings which must be looked for in
connection with other noticeable signs. If an initial "M" appears, and
near to it a small square or oblong leaf, both being near the rim of the
cup, it would indicate a letter coming speedily from someone whose name
begins with an "M." If the initial appears near the bottom of the cup it
shows that the letter will not be coming for some time.

If there be a clear space at the bottom of the cup devoid of tea-leaves,
it shows water, and that, in all probability, the letter is coming from
abroad. If the symbol of the letter comes very near to a bird flying, it
shows a telegram. If the bird is flying towards the consultant (the
handle), the telegram has been received. The news in it is to be judged
by other signs in the cup. If flying away from the handle, the telegram
is sent by the consultant. A single bird flying always indicates speedy
news.

In a cup with various ominous signs, such as a serpent, an owl, or many
crosses, the news coming is not likely to be pleasant. In a cup without
bad signs, it can safely be said that the news is good.

As a general rule large letters indicate places, whilst smaller ones
give the names of persons. Thus a large letter "E" would stand for
Edinburgh and a smaller "E" for Edwards, for instance. To all rules
there comes the occasional exception, and this principle holds good with
regard to the letters in the tea-cup. It is said that these smaller
letters always point to the first letter of the surname. Usually it is
so; but I have constantly found from experience that it is the first
letter of the Christian name, or even a pet name, to which the letter
refers. It is well to keep this possibility in mind, otherwise the seer
may give misleading information to consultants.

Sometimes numbers mean the date for an event to be expected, a "5" for
instance, very near the brim of the cup, or the handle (the consultant),
means in five days; or five weeks if it come on the side, possibly as
far off as five months if the figure be at the bottom of the cup.

As dots around a symbol always indicate money in some form or another,
according to the character of the symbol, a figure beside the dots would
signify the amount of money to be expected. If the symbol were that of a
legacy with the figure "90" near, it would show that a little legacy of
ninety pounds might be anticipated.

Clearly defined symbols that stand out separately are of more importance
than such as are difficult to discern. Clusters of shapeless leaves
represent clouds marring the effect of an otherwise fortunate cup.

Journeys are shown by lines or dots formed by the dust and smaller
leaves of the tea. The length and direction of the journey may be known
by the extent of the line and, roughly speaking, the point of the
compass to which it leads, the handle in this case representing south.
If the line of dots ascends sharply to the brim of the cup, a journey to
a hilly country will be taken.

Supposing the consultant to be at home, and the dots form a line from
the handle all round the cup and back to the handle, it signifies a
journey for a visit and the return. If the line were to stop before
reaching the handle again, with an appearance of a house where the line
ends, a change of residence might safely be predicted. A wavy line shows
indecision as to arrangements. Crosses upon the line indicate that there
will be vexation or delay in connection with the journey. Large flat
leaves some distance apart along the line stand for important stations
to be passed through.

For some consultants there seems very little of interest to be read in
their cup. There are no events, merely trivialities. It is therefore
difficult to find anything that could be considered as "future," when it
seems to be just a dead level "present," the daily life, nothing more.
It is sad for those who have such a dull life, but there is usually some
sign, a small happening such as a parcel, or a visit from a friend.
These must be made the most of. The pleasure of anticipation will add to
the realisation.

A confused looking tea-cup, without any definite symbols, just a muddle
of tea-leaves, is useless for the purpose of divination, beyond giving
an indication of the state of the consultant's mind, so vague and
undecided in its character that it obscures everything. Tell such a one
the reason for the failure of divining, and recommend a more reliable
state of mind. Then let them try their "fortune" again in a few months,
when it may be found quite different.

It is of course a great mistake to be always "looking in the
tea-leaves," as some foolish people do twice a day. It is sure to lead
to contradictions though there is no harm in the habit of "looking in
the cup" each morning as others do, for finding the events likely to
happen in the course of the day. This is as permissible as the reading
of the cards each morning for the day's events by those who consider it
a safeguard, remembering that to be forewarned is to be forearmed.

Some people use the tea-cup simply for the purpose of asking a definite
question, such as, "Is the sum of money I am expecting coming soon?"
When this is the case, the consultant should be told before turning the
cup in the hand to concentrate the thoughts on this one point, as in the
case of wishing while shuffling the cards for a definite wish. Then the
seer must look only for the signs that will give the answer to the
question, ignoring all other points. This is necessary for the giving of
a satisfactory answer to the question asked.




CHAPTER IV

DIVINATION BY TEA-LEAVES AS AN AMUSEMENT AND AS A MORE SERIOUS STUDY


The need for patience cannot be too strongly impressed upon those who
are beginning to learn the language of tea-leaves. Some of the most
interesting symbols are very minute, and will certainly be missed by the
seer who is in a hurry.

When tea-leaf reading is indulged in merely as an amusement to while
away a few moments after a meal, a hasty glance at the cup, or cup and
saucer, will suffice. The seer will just note the chief features, such
as a journey, a letter, a parcel, or news of a wedding, and pass on to
the next cup. But this is far from being a really interesting method of
divination by tea-leaves, wherein so much knowledge is to be found, and
so much useful information gained.

Those who closely study this fascinating subject will certainly be well
rewarded by a deep personal interest, in addition to the pleasure they
give to others.

It is wonderful how rapidly converts are made to this form of
divination. Some who in the past have been heard scornfully to assert
that they "have no belief in tea-leaves," become the most regular
inquirers. Moreover, these sceptics have proved to be very efficient
students.

There is always a satisfaction in persuading another to one's own point
of view. The more obstinate the opposition, the more glorious the final
conquest!

It is a rare occurrence nowadays to meet with three people in the course
of a day, and not to find that one at least is deeply interested in
fortune-telling in some of its various forms.

Quite recently I had a letter from a girl who has gone on a visit to
British Columbia, asking me if I would "do the cards" for her, as she
could not find anyone in her vicinity who was particularly good at
divination. She went on to say that "there is a perfect rage for
fortune-telling out here, and everyone is keen on it." Another instance
of this universal popularity was given to me by a friend who had
recently been to America. She was amazed at the numbers of women whom
she saw absorbed in the reading of their tea-cups each day of the
voyage.

The male sex holds aloof and leaves us to "perform these follies." Some
ascribe it to man's superiority. Or as briefly summed up by a delightful
member of their sex, who when declaiming against the possibility of the
future being made visible, said, "With all apologies to you, I must say
I am not so profoundly stupid as to believe in these things; it cannot
be anything more than rot."

It is remarkable how such protests die away when clairvoyant evidence,
either by cards, tea-leaves, or other means, has accurately predicted
some event of the distant future that at the time appeared absurd and
impossible of happening.

Woman may lawfully claim superiority with regard to her intuitive
faculty, and thus she is well equipped for exercising her divinatory
powers.

Who need be dull or bored when the language of symbolism remains to be
learned? Perhaps I should say, studied; for completely learned it can
never be, seeing that fresh events are constantly occurring in the
world, and new symbols appear representing each.

There are few things more fascinating than personal discovery, and those
who become students of divination by tea-leaves, or cards, may safely be
promised a taste of this pleasing sensation of achievement. It is
limited to the few to discover the marvels of radium, or the discomforts
of the South Pole, but a fragment of their glory is shared by those who
find new evidence of the far-reaching knowledge of symbolism.




CHAPTER V

SOME HINTS FOR DIVINERS

REMARKABLE INSTANCES OF PROPHECY BY THE TEA-LEAVES

"For a man's mind is sometimes wont to tell him more
than seven watchmen that sit above in a high tower."


To those of an inquiring or doubting turn of mind, there may arise the
very natural question as to _why_ one shaped tea-leaf should mean
"a hat" and another "a table." It is useless to point out that these
objects are perfectly represented by the leaves. That is of no practical
satisfaction. The simple fact that each language has its alphabet, its
spelling, and its words, which must be learned before there can be any
reasonable understanding of it, seems the best and obvious reply.

Symbolism is a wide subject with many branches. Who can expect to master
even its alphabet in a moment? To those who cannot accept the symbols in
the tea-leaves on the authority of past experience, reaching over
several centuries, I would recommend a careful study of their cups for,
say, three months. Let them make notes of such signs as appear and
beside them place their meanings and predictions.

At the end of this time, compare all that has taken place with these
notes, and I think there will be no further lack of faith in the
tea-leaf symbols.

Before very many years have passed the language of symbolism by cards,
tea-leaves, crystal gazing, etc., will probably be almost universally
understood. The day will undoubtedly come when it will be accepted as
naturally as the English language, and we shall cease to worry ourselves
as to the why and wherefore of it all.

It is important that those who are learning the art of divination by
tea-leaves should realise the necessity for consistently attributing the
same meanings to the symbols. Do not be tempted to change their
interpretation for what may seem a more probable, or pleasant,
prediction for your client. It is a fatal mistake.

Remember that you are dealing with conditions and events of the future
which are outside the limited knowledge of the normal mind, whose power
of vision is limited to physical sight.

A simple instance of what may occur, should you thus change the meanings
of the symbols, will suffice to show the folly of such a practice.

A consultant comes to have her "fortune read." She is known to you
personally, and you are aware that she is anxious to hear a hopeful
report of someone dear to her who is ill. The tea-leaf symbols are
obstinately unfavourable, and display ominous signs of forthcoming
sorrow. If you gloss over this fact completely, and predict a rapid
recovery from the illness, what becomes of your client's faith in the
power of foretelling the future? Certain it is that the symbols would be
right in their verdict, and you would be wrong.

It is usually easier to prophesy smooth things rather than unpleasant
facts, but to do this in the face of obvious contradictions will lead to
disaster in foretelling the future.

Divination by tea-leaves or cards has the candour to be frankly
disagreeable when necessary. This is one great argument in favour of its
unerring truthfulness. There is no means by which symbols may be coaxed
into proclaiming false statements.

The most practised clairvoyant may occasionally make mistakes in her
reading of the symbols, but no genuine seer should ever deliberately
give a wrong interpretation of them to please her consultant. The
business of the diviner is to give what she believes to be a correct and
unprejudiced translation of the symbols before her.

It is sometimes a vexed question as to what extent information of a
gloomy nature, which may appear in a divination, should be given to a
client. Some are in favour of withholding such matter altogether, whilst
others announce it frankly without modification. It seems impossible to
lay down any hard and fast rule. There are so many things to be taken
into account, and each case should be treated on its merits and
according to its peculiar circumstances. There are some who would fret
themselves ill at the least mention of coming misfortune, others would
be the better prepared to meet it by having been warned of its approach.

One rule can be safely made for guidance on this point. Do not minimise
danger when a timely warning may avert an accident, or other misfortune,
nor should symbols of ill omen be exaggerated. As students become
proficient, they will find many meanings in the tea-leaves in addition
to those which they learn from this book. Much will depend upon
circumstances and individual temperaments.

These personally discovered meanings should be carefully noted and
verified with events as they occur.

It is necessary to remember that divination by the tea-cup is by no
means limited to personal information. Forthcoming public events are
frequently revealed. This adds largely to the interest and usefulness of
the divination. It is important to point out this to consultants, so
that they may not be too ready to fix the whole reading of their cups to
purely personal matters. It will be found that public news is usually
foretold in the cups of those who seek information of the future as a
regular practice.

For those who rarely do so, private affairs alone will appear, probably
without even a forecast of the weather to be expected within the next
few days.

It is a curious fact that the wider knowledge should seem to be reserved
for those who practise divination constantly, but so it is.

Some remarkable instances of the accurate foretelling of public events,
which have quite recently been brought to my notice, may be interesting.

For some weeks before the coal strike of 1920 was declared, a pickaxe
was seen on several occasions in the cups of two persons, both of whom
read their tea-leaves regularly. This symbol, as will be seen in the
dictionary which follows, stands for "labour trouble and strikes." A
spade was also in evidence at intervals, a further sign of "trouble and
unrest." So that it was through no fault of the tea-leaves if some of us
were not in the superior position of knowing all about the strike before
it came to pass.

The symbols already mentioned would of course apply equally to railway
disturbance, and some time before the threat of a strike was announced,
these symbols appeared again, together with an engine, and a signal at
the angle of "Danger." This seemed ominous. But within a few days the
signal was evident once more; but on this occasion set at "All Clear."
So it was easy to decide that the threatened strike would not take
place. The accuracy of this prediction by means of the tea-leaves was
shortly afterwards made evident.

Again, a week before there seemed to be even a hope of a settlement of
the coal strike, a mining shaft presented itself in one of the tea-cups
which had previously been indicating the strike. This symbol appeared at
the top of the cup standing out clearly by itself, evidently predicting
the miners' return to work within a short time. There was no need to
depend upon information from the newspapers as to the end of the strike,
for here in the tea-leaves was all necessary evidence of the fact.

Another very remarkable instance of symbolism was given to me by a
friend a short time ago. On Monday morning, October 26th, 1920, the
three following symbols appeared in her cup:--

A vulture resting on a rock.
An eagle.
A monkey.


In the evening of that day the death of King Alexander of Greece was
announced.

It will be seen, on referring to the dictionary, that an eagle and a
vulture signify "the death of a monarch." The monkey who lay at the
bottom of the cup, apparently dead, was of course the third symbol as
having caused the King's death. It was particularly gratifying that
these signs should have appeared in my friend's cup for she is a
mathematical genius, and rejects every symbol which she cannot recognise
at once. She was so struck by these signs that she called them to the
attention of her mother, who also immediately perceived and identified
them. The only regrettable omission was that the cup was not
photographed. It would have been valuable evidence for the wonders of
the tea-leaves.

This same friend had another interesting experience. The head of an
Indian appeared in her cup, with other signs pointing to news of a
personal nature. She was puzzled, for, as far as she knew, there was no
one in India from whom she would be in the least likely to hear.

Very shortly afterwards, however, her mother went on a visit to London.
There she quite unexpectedly met someone who had recently come from
India, and who had brought back messages of remembrance and affection
from a girl who my friend had no idea was in India at that time. Hence
the Indian in her tea-cup!

Whilst on this subject, I am reminded of another occasion when India was
represented in the tea-leaves. I was looking into my tea-cup one day,
when I saw most clearly depicted two natives creeping stealthily, their
attitude making this evident. In their hands were what appeared to be
knives, and they were making towards a figure that was unmistakably that
of an officer. He was standing upon what looked like a raised platform
with a barricade round him. He held a revolver in his hand.

I am quite aware that some may think this a tall tale for the tea-leaves
to relate! But fortunately my reading of the cup was witnessed by two
others, one of them being a man, who, although interested in psychic
subjects, despises the tea-leaves! Without remarking upon what I saw, I
suggested that he should look at my cup and see what he made of it.
Without a moment's hesitation he said, "There is an officer defending
himself against some natives who are about to attack him."

My readers will appreciate the satisfaction this testimony gave me,
coming as it did from one who had never before looked into a cup.
Moreover, that this witness should have been one of the male sex added
to its value! This prediction of danger for someone in India was borne
out by facts that were disclosed shortly afterwards. These instances
which I have given illustrate the variety and interest which are to be
found in divination by tea-leaves.




CHAPTER VI

WRITING IN THE TEA-LEAVES

SOME FREQUENT SYMBOLS


Another source through which messages are received by the tea-leaves
will be found in the writing which will be seen from time to time.
Moreover, it has the great advantage of being clear and easy to
decipher, so that there may be no doubt of what is intended to be
understood by it. The tea-leaves can never be accused of being
illegible. Occasionally it is very minute writing, and would probably be
passed over by those who read their cups in a superficial manner. To
those who study them carefully the future is revealed.

No one would reasonably expect to find a speech from the Prime Minister
or an invitation to a tea-party written for them in the tea-leaves. But
words they certainly will find.

A short time ago I saw in my cup, in perfect copperplate writing, the
word "wait." I was annoyed by it, for what is more annoying than having
to wait? Sometimes it may happen that the tea-leaves--as with their
relatives, the tumbler and automatic writing--become a little shaky in
their spelling. But this is not a serious defect, and the trifling
errors do not prevent the word from being translatable. It is a
recognised fact that writing seen through a medium, whether it be
tea-leaves, or a dream, is of importance, and should always be regarded
with attention and with an endeavour to understand its message.

I should like to point out that certain figures and symbols are of so
frequent occurrence that it may be well to emphasise their general
significance by referring to them here, in addition to their meaning
being given in the dictionary.

Among those which threaten misfortune, or sorrow, are the following:
Crosses, snakes, spades, pistols, guns, toads, cats.

Joy and success are indicated by such symbols as a crescent moon, clover
leaves, flowers, trees, anchors, fruit, circles, stars.

Having learned the symbols and the combined symbols by heart, it will
require only a little practice to interpret their meanings without
hesitation. For those who find difficulty in committing the dictionary
to memory, an essential for proficient reading of the cup, I would
suggest that they write down any meaning which may seem specially hard
to remember, roughly drawing its symbol beside it. In this way the
difficulty will soon be overcome.




CHAPTER VII

THE "NELROS" CUP

TWO EXAMPLE READINGS OF ITS SIGNS

"If thou wouldst learn thy future with thy tea,
This magic cup will show it thee."


Some readers may find an additional interest in divination by
tea-leaves, if they use a cup marked with the planetary symbols,
patented as the "Nelros Cup of Fortune." A short explanation of the
symbols, and the method of using this cup, will be helpful for those who
are not familiar with its signs. I am not suggesting the use of the
"Nelros" saucer, for the reason that its signs are somewhat obscure, and
students who have no experience in the science of astrology would find
it confusing, if used in addition to the cup, in which all needful signs
are illustrated.

As in the case of the ordinary tea-cup, the handle remains as the
representative of the consultant. The turning of it and draining of the
moisture should be carried out in the usual way.

Immediately under the handle, and above the space given to the Sun, are
seen a Diamond and a Horseshoe. Next on the left are a Snake twisted
round a stick, and a Spade, these being placed over the space given to
Saturn.

Following them are a Bell and a Club, seen over the sign of Venus. Next,
an Eye and Envelope, above the space given to Jupiter.

Then comes a Cross, with the sign of Pisces, the Fishes, these being
over the sign of Mercury.

Next are a Winecup and a Spider above the space of Mars.

Followed by a Cat's Head and a Heart, above the Moon.

Each one of these signs round the brim has a symbolic meaning, though
their meaning must also be judged by the position they occupy in the
cup.

Now, taking the signs round the brim of the cup, and connecting them
with the planetary symbols beneath.

Beginning at the handle is a Diamond, this being a token of wealth,
which, with the sign of the Sun below, indicates much prosperity,
favours, and general well-being, the Horseshoe over the Sun also
betokening good luck and successful projects.

In the next space, reading to the left, is the Snake twisted round a
stick, over the sign of Saturn. This is emblematical of a risk of
poverty coming through deceit, and with a Spade over Saturn, whose
characteristic is privation, there is a further indication of toil,
loss, undoing.

The next sign is a happier one; the Bell over the sign of Venus, with
the Club beyond, indicates joyful news, events meaning much happiness,
love and peace, the characteristic of Venus being peace or placidity.

Next is the sign of Jupiter, whose characteristic is expansion; above it
are placed an Eye and an Envelope, the Eye showing the power of
penetration, seeing things in a right perspective, and light thrown on
difficult questions, the letter showing that news from all parts of the
world is made possible by its expansion.

Next come the Latin Cross and the watery sign Pisces, the Fishes. These
being in connection with Mercury, whose characteristic is activity, show
much alertness and desire for knowledge; the Cross meaning obstacles and
hindrances in the chosen path, whilst the sign of Pisces denotes
interesting news from distant lands, with much desire for travel and
exploration.

In the next space the Winecup and Spider, in connection with the sign of
Mars, the characteristic of Mars being energy, show the strength,
courage, and perseverance needed to carry out a successful career; the
Spider being a symbol of concentration, patience, and achievement,
whilst the Wine-cup tells of joy and realised ambition.

Following these signs are the Cat's Head and the Heart, with the
Crescent Moon below. The characteristic of the Moon is change, mobility;
it is also a symbol of good fortune in the tea-leaves. In combination
with the Heart it indicates a romantic love affair. The Cat's Head shows
interference by those who are mean and spiteful.

Having learned from this brief explanation the symbols of the "Nelros
Cup," the reading of the tea-leaves in relation to those symbols will be
easy. For instance, suppose the wife of a sailor to be the consultant.
Her husband is on his ship in the North Sea, and she is eagerly awaiting
news of him. In the cup she has "turned," the symbol of a letter comes
in the watery sign [Symbol: )-(] with a large ivy leaf beneath it.
Further patience will be necessary, the ivy leaf tells us, as the
wished-for letter is still far away. The distance from the handle (the
consultant) shows this, also the letter symbol being in the watery sign
indicates the fact that it will come from across the sea. The waiting
for the news causes a feeling of disappointment and sadness; these will
vanish later on, and the waiting be compensated by the happy news that
will come in the longed-for letter. This is seen by the tea-leaves which
appear on other symbols of the cup.

The form of a man is seen between the signs of the Bell and Club; near
this form is the letter "A," the first letter of the consultant's name.
Round this initial letter is a well-formed circle; a trident lies at a
little distance from it.

Here is evidence of the joyful news coming from her husband, the
tea-leaves in the spaces of the Bell and Club making a prediction of the
satisfactory news a safe one. The circle round the letter "A" and the
symbol of the trident near, enable the seer to prophesy a good
promotion, much success and happiness.

This example reading of the "Nelros" cup is a fortunate one. We will now
consider one of a less satisfactory character.

The consultant is a widow; opposite the handle of the cup she has
"turned" is the Envelope over Jupiter, upon the Envelope tea-leaves
forming an Owl are seen, beneath is a small arrow pointing towards the
handle. These signs foretell bad news probably coming from a far
country; the sign of Jupiter and distance from the handle (the
consultant) would show this. The symbol of the Owl indicates the anxiety
caused by the arrival of the letter and its news. The arrow pointing
towards the handle would show that the matter is personal, and will much
affect the consultant.

Upon the sign of Saturn, with an arm stretched towards the Spade above
it, is the figure of a man. The characteristic of Saturn being
privation, and the Spade being a symbol of toil, it is evident that the
figure of the man represents someone related to the consultant for whom
the present prospects are very bad. It may well be this man from whom is
coming the news in the letter which will cause her so much anxiety.

Fortunately, on the Anchor at the bottom of the cup is a well-formed
key. Being in this position, it shows that someone at a distance, having
the welfare of the consultant much in their mind, will be the means in
the future of helping her out of the difficulties. The key being on the
Anchor indicates the security she may feel in the friends, who will be
instrumental in giving her happiness and peace of mind.

These two example divinations will illustrate the manner in which the
tea-leaves are read in relation to the signs upon the cup. To some it
may appear an easier means than that of the ordinary tea-cup.

In any case it is very useful to have an alternative method of
foretelling the future. Variety is always acceptable, and for this
reason I commend the "Nelros Cup of Fortune" to my readers.





A DICTIONARY OF SYMBOLS


A

ABBEY.--A sign of increasing wealth and comfort; you will gain much
success in your life.

ACE OF CLUBS.--This signifies good news through the post.

ACE OF DIAMONDS.--You will be gratified by a good present or sum of
money.

ACE OF HEARTS.--Shows affection and happiness in the home.

ACE OF SPADES.--A large town or building.

ACORN.--This is a symbol of health, strength and gain through industry,
a sowing of which you will see the reaping, a short journey from which
there may be great results; good fortune and ease are predicted by
several acorns.

AIRCRAFT.--If flying towards consultant, hasty news or an unexpected
journey; if stationary it gives warning that you will have but little
success in your life unless you come out of the rut into which you have
fallen.

ALBATROSS.--If seen with the sign of a ship or water it portends
distress for those at sea; to sailors or to those associated with them
it is an omen of sadness, meaning sorrow and sometimes death.

ALDERMAN.--To workers this is a sign that if they proceed with caution
they will become prosperous.

ALLIGATOR.--This is a bad sign of personal danger and distress possibly
caused by those nearest to you; it also shows much mental disturbance
and worry; if very near consultant a catastrophe is imminent.

ALMONDS.--These denote festivities and social enjoyment, good and
generous friends.

ALTAR.--If with a figure near, sorrow and distress are foreshown.

ANCHOR.--A pleasing symbol of good and loyal friends, constancy in love,
and the realisation of your wishes; an emblem of safety to a sailor.

ANEMONE.--These flowers often indicate an event to be expected in the
early autumn; the nature of it must be judged by other signs in the cup.

ANGEL.--This is a symbol of good fortune in love, radiance, happiness,
and peace.

ANGEL (FLYING).--A token of love and joy which are swiftly approaching
you.

ANTLERS.--An accident is predicted by this symbol.

ANVIL.--Your strength and energy will bring you much success in new
plans or enterprises.

APE.--This animal points to the fact that you have a secret enemy; it
denotes malicious and dangerous persons whose tongues are to be feared;
it is also a sign of despondency, care, anxiety, and fraud.

APPLES.--A pleasant sign of happiness, cheerful conditions, good health,
and fortune.

APPLE TREES.--These predict a happy event in the apple season.

APRON.--Near consultant brings a new friend; at a distance new work or
acquaintances.

ARAB.--This symbol points to a need for caution in choosing your
friends, or you may find yourself in the power of someone who will prove
to be an undesirable companion.

ARCH.--Things which you desire are developing in the wished-for
direction; the arch is a sign of hope; your ambition may be gratified in
a most unexpected manner. See also TRIUMPHAL ARCH.

ARK.--This symbol assures you of security and of finding refuge in times
of distress and turmoil.

ARM.--If curved, it signifies love, protection, care and strength;
stretched out, that a new influence will come into your life which will
prove to be an endless source of joy and love.

ARMOUR.--A suit of armour foretells that you will be called upon to face
difficulties and dangers and that you will come through them with
courage. See KNIGHT IN ARMOUR.

ARROW.--Unpleasant news or a disagreeable letter from the direction in
which it comes.

ARTICHOKE.--This signifies sadness, disappointment and delay; sometimes
a secret trouble is indicated by this symbol.

ARTIST.--To see an artist at work, indicates association with those who
study art; also a happy nature finding much joy and beauty in life.

ARTIST'S MAHL STICK.--This implies an artistic temperament, a dislike of
daily duties or irksome tasks, and a fretting under any routine; a lack
of attention to detail is also a usual characteristic of this symbol.

ARUM LILY.--This flower stands for dignity, expectancy, and calm; its
fuller meanings must be judged by other symbols around it.

ASS.--If its head is towards consultant, a piece of good news or an
event which has long been waited for is near; if its tail, then further
patience is necessary, for there will be delay; if it gallops, it gives
warning that if people allow themselves to become too boring their
friends may reasonably, be expected to avoid them.

ASTERS.--These flowers indicate a smooth though possibly a somewhat
monotonous life; they also show a settled state of mind and sound
judgment; if seen in the form of a wreath a death is predicted.

AUTOMATIC MACHINE.--This signifies a lack of initiative and consequent
failure in arriving at any great achievement.

AXE.--This shows mastery and power to overcome difficulties; sometimes
separation.


B

BABY.--A naked baby near consultant is a sign of sadness and
disappointment caused by those who are nearest and dearest; to some it
is a sign of money worries; a baby in arms means reconciliation.

BACON.--Pieces of bacon signify good luck and profitable business.

BADGER.--For a maid, or a bachelor, this symbol predicts a single life,
but one of freedom, health and success; for the married, it implies
regret that they did not remain unmarried.

BAGPIPES.--This symbol gives warning of coming sorrow or much agitation
and disturbance.

BALL.--See FOOTBALL.

BALLET DANCE.--This is a forecast of unsuccessful plans.

BALLOON.--A symbol which indicates that much is attempted but little
achieved; there is a passing enthusiasm for various experiments and new
ideas, but the interest soon flags, and finally vanishes as the balloon
in the clouds.

BANANAS.--These promise gratification and the occurrence of those things
which are most pleasing to you; also a prediction of much happiness and
success in love affairs.

BANNER.--This is a symbol of a prosperous life for a man and of a
wealthy marriage for a woman.

BARBER.--This signifies the approach of a new interest coming into your
life, which will lead you to be most particular as to your personal
appearance.

BARREL.--Festivity, possibly a picnic; several barrels, prosperity.

BARREL ORGAN.--Melancholy and a distaste for present circumstances.

BASIN.--This symbol stands for small ailments and minor worries; a
broken basin, domestic annoyance.

BASKET.--Domestic duties and family cares; if full, a present given or
received.

BASKET OF FLOWERS.--Happiness and contentment, fulfilled desires.

BASSOON.--This musical instrument implies that your energy is apt to
exceed your wit.

BAT.--See CRICKET BAT.

BATH.--This indicates grief or dismay.

BATS.--An ill omen showing sickness and trouble in the home; with other
signs, a prediction of death.

BAYONET.--A sign to be feared; it shows danger of operation, wounds, and
pain.

BEANS.--These show quarrels and disputes with relations.

BEAR.--A journey north, sometimes prolonged travel. See also POLAR BEAR.

BED.--A visit, illness; or death, according to other symbols.

BEEF.--A round of beef foretells coming financial worries.

BEEHIVE.--This is a symbol of eloquence, mental capacity, and much
energy in forming new schemes and carrying them through; also of
attainment to power and honour.

BEES.--These foretell success through your own ability, many friends and
enjoyment of life to the full. See also BUMBLE BEE.

BEETLE.--This signifies unrest, domestic tribulation, or disagreements;
several beetles, that there is a risk of slander and abuse by those whom
you regard as friends.

BEETROOT.--This symbol indicates that someone will try to do you a bad
turn, but it will fail in its object and rather turn out as a benefit.

Bell.--Amazing news according to other signs in the cup; several bells
indicate a wedding. See also CANTERBURY BELLS, DIVING BELL, HANDBELL.

BELLADONNA LILY.--This flower is a sign of hope, love, happiness, and
the leading of an upright and honourable life.

BELLOWS.--These show an endeavour to make the best of a bad business.

BESOM.--This gives a caution to avoid meddling in other people's affairs
or you may find yourself regarded as an unpleasant busybody.

BIER.--A symbol of death; if near consultant, a personal sorrow,
otherwise of a less personal nature.

BILLIARD TABLE.--Pleasure followed by regret.

BIRD FEEDING YOUNG.--After a time of patient waiting, your desires will
be fulfilled.

BIRD OF PARADISE.--Difficulties and trials are vanishing and a future of
comfort and pleasure awaits you.

BIRD ON A PERCH.--If near consultant, news resulting in pleasant plans;
if at some distance, there is a doubt of the news being sent.

BIRDS.--These are significant of happiness and joyful tidings; a single
bird flying means speedy news, telegrams; birds in a row on a branch or
line show that there will be vexatious delay in receiving some
wished-for news; birds in a circle denote cogitation followed by swift
decision. See also CLAPPER FOR SCARING BIRDS and STUFFED BIRDS.

BIRDS IN CAGE.--This implies that a variety of causes prevents you from
obtaining your dearest wish; should the cage door be open, obstacles
will shortly be removed and great happiness will be yours.

BIRD'S NEST.--This signifies a happy discovery, leading to a fortunate
enterprise brought about to a great extent by your own patience and
ability; it is also a good omen of love, friends, and increase of
fortune.

BISCUITS.--These seen in various shapes and sizes foretell the
occurrence of pleasant events.

BISHOP.--A sign of benevolence, authority, and progress; in cope and
mitre, preferment and honour.

BLUEBELLS.--These indicate that an event bringing you much satisfaction
and pleasure may be expected to take place in the spring.

BLUEBOTTLE FLY.--Unpleasantness and jealousy will be aroused by your
success.

BOAR.--This animal shows much energy and push though not always in the
right direction to bring you unqualified success; it is also a sign of
obstacles in your path.

BOAT.--Success in a new enterprise; seen with clouds, troubles and
disappointment. See also FERRYBOAT.

BOMB.--This foretells a personal disaster or news of an explosion and
loss of life.

BONES.--These are an indication of misfortune surmounted with courage.

BONNET.--This implies that youth will be past before you have the best
happiness of your life. See also WIDOW'S BONNET.

BOOK.--An open book shows a desire for information and a mind ever on
the alert to understand new theories and facts; a closed book is a sign
of expectancy.

BOOKCASE.--This is a pleasing symbol of coming success through study and
perseverance.

BOOMERANG.--This sign means news from Australia, or that some unexpected
development will lead to your having a great interest in that country;
with signs of travel, that you will make your home there.

BOOTBLACK.--A bootblack is a sign of failure in your work.

BOOTS.--These show fortunate business, a good income, and the
gratification of your tastes and pleasures; boots of a curious shape
foretell an unfortunate enterprise ending in failure.

BOOT-TREE.--A lucky surprise.

BORDER.--See FLOWER BORDER.

BOTTLE.--A sign of happy days; several bottles indicate extravagant
tastes; small bottles, illness.

BOUQUET.--This is a most fortunate symbol of coming happiness, love,
fulfilled hope, and marriage.

BOW.--A sign of reunion after absence or estrangement.

BOW AND ARROW.--This denotes that there is unpleasant talk of your
personal affairs which may do you harm.

BOWER.--Happiness in love is proclaimed by this symbol.

BOX.--An open box foreshows a troubled love affair; a closed box, that
you will find something which you had lost.

BOY.--This symbol must be read in accordance with other signs in the
cup.

BRACELET.--A discovery made too late.

BRANCH.--A large branch is a sign of much independence and of success in
carrying out an undertaking; the larger it is the greater your success;
a broken branch signifies an attempt to organise a project or new scheme
which will end in failure.

BREAD.--A loaf of bread is a sign of the commonplace and of monotony;
several loaves give warning against waste and extravagance, for a
shortage of corn is threatened; loaves of bread with crossed swords
above them predict mutiny and disaffection among those whom the world
trusted.

BRICKLAYER'S TROWEL.--A task which you have in hand will be successfully
carried out.

BRICKS.--These signify new plans and enterprises which will lead to
prosperity.

BRIDE.--This sign indicates a wedding, coming joy, or a rival in your
affections, according to other symbols around it.

BRIDGE.--An advantageous opportunity; a fortunate journey. See also
SUSPENSION BRIDGE.

BRIDLE.--This points to the fact that you greatly object to interference
or authority, and that you will always be "top dog" with your friends.

BROOCH.--This indicates that you are likely to make a discovery greatly
to your advantage, and may in time turn it to good account in the
development of a patent; a brooch with dots around it predicts a
present.

BROOM.--This signifies that there is need for you to be careful in the
choice of your friends, and to avoid rushing into an intimacy which you
might later have cause to regret.

BUBBLES.--See CHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.

BUCKLES.--These foretell that some important arrangement of much
personal advantage will fall through in an unforeseen manner, causing
disappointment and dismay.

BUFFALO.--A most unexpected and unusual happening, possibly causing
agitation and uncertainty as to the best way to proceed.

BUGLE.--This shows a desire for admiration and notice from all whom you
meet; it also implies that it is high time to arouse yourself and become
more energetic and industrious.

BUILDING.--A sign of removal.

BULL.--An ill omen of misfortune, attacks of pain, or of slander by some
enemy; if it gallops with tail up, personal danger or illness of someone
dear to you.

BUMBLE BEE.--This shows a cheerful disposition, making the best of
everyone and everything, easily gratified tastes and pleasures; many
friends and social success; with other signs, travel is indicated.

BUNS.--These signify social amusements and duties, also that you usually
take a cheery view of things even in troublesome circumstances.

BUOY.--This is a symbol of hope; you have a good friend in all weathers.

BUSH.--Invitations and social enjoyments.

BUTTER.--This signifies good fortune and success, the comforts of life,
and a desire for the best of everything.

BUTTERFLY.--Passing pleasure, power of attraction, many admirers, and
flirtations; to the lover it speaks of inconstancy.

BUTTONHOOK.--An exchange between friends, successfully organised plans,
and a propitious meeting.

BUTTONS.--If of various size and shape they mean that there will be many
suggestions as to arrangements and new plans without anything definite
being settled.


C

CAB.--A sign of gloom, sadness and parting.

CABBAGE.--This symbol points out that in spite of thrift and diligence,
you will never be very rich.

CABINET.--An unexpected and fortunate discovery, giving you much
pleasure and satisfaction, possibly wealth and unthought-of prosperity.

CAGE.--An empty cage shows that you expect to find all manner of amiable
qualities in others which are entirely lacking in yourself. See also
BIRDS IN CAGE.

CAKES.--New friends, social success, invitations, and hospitality. See
also WEDDING CAKE.

CALF.--This signifies a need for gentleness and kindness to those with
whom you associate.

CAMEL.--A responsibility satisfactorily carried out; sometimes
frustrated plans and endless delays; a camel laden means wealth from an
unexpected source abroad.

CAMERA.--This proclaims the fact that you are too fond of gathering new
or clever ideas from others, with a view to passing them off as your own
original thoughts whenever the opportunity arises.

CAMPANULAS.--These flowers indicate that your hope is centred on one
desire, and assure you of the certainty of obtaining your wish.

CANDLE.--This is significant of trials, worries, or illness.

CANDLE EXTINGUISHER.--An uncomfortable incident or episode which will
put you out considerably.

CANDLESTICK.--You have need to look at things from a wider point of
view; to make the best of yourself you must cultivate perception.

CANNON.--This denotes military and naval display and good fortune; with
pleasant symbols around or near, such as a crown or star, promotion for
someone dear to you in the service.

CANOE.--This implies that a new friendship will eventually lead to a
happy love affair.

CANOPY.--This brings success through the help and interest of those who
are socially or mentally your superiors.

CANTERBURY BELLS.--These graceful flowers indicate that your happiness
is to a great extent dependent upon others; if the figure of a woman
appeared beside the flowers it will be through a woman that your best
happiness comes, if a man were seen it will be one of the male sex to
whom you must look for your chief joy in life.

CAP.--This warns you to be cautious in your dealings with those of the
opposite sex; it also points to the fact that those things which you
desire to hide will become known. See also PEAKED CAP.

CAPSTAN.--To those associated with the sea, this symbol gives warning of
storms; to others, it predicts association with sailors or yachtsmen.

CARAFE.--A pleasure which will depend entirely upon yourself is the
meaning of this symbol.

CARAVAN.--This signifies an independent nature, desiring to live a
roaming life free of restrictions; should a horse be harnessed to the
caravan your ambitions will be fulfilled.

CARDS.--See ACE OF CLUBS, ACE OF DIAMONDS, ACE OF HEARTS, ACE OF SPADES.

CARNATIONS.--These sweet-scented flowers bring happiness, faithfulness,
love, and good friends.

CARPENTER AT WORK.--Necessary arrangement of your affairs is the meaning
of this symbol.

CARRIAGE AND HORSES.-This foretells that your affairs will prosper and
that you may reasonably expect the comforts of life; a carriage without
horses means that your riches will be transitory, leaving you in
poverty; with other signs it denotes that you may be the victim of
scandal.

CARRYING CHAIR.--An omen of illness or accident.

CART.--A symbol of fluctuation in fortune and of a tedious waiting for
any settled improvement in financial affairs.

CARVING.--Handsome carving is a sign of satisfaction and development.

CASTLE.--You may expect fortune to smile upon you; a crumbling castle
denotes disappointment and ill success in love and marriage.

CAT.--This is an uncomfortable sign of trickery, meanness, and quarrels
among relations, money matters probably being the disturbing cause; a
cat jumping shows worries and difficulty.

CATERPILLAR.--You are likely to be criticized unkindly by those who are
envious of you, although you have no suspicion that these people are
anything but friendly in their feeling towards you; there is slyness and
deception, and it would be well to be on your guard or you may find
unpleasant gossip has been spread about you.

CATHEDRAL.--Prosperity, contentment, and happiness with those whom you
love is the meaning of this symbol.

CATTLE.--Profitable transactions.

CAULDRON.--New opportunities which need careful consideration.

CAULIFLOWER.--This signifies that even your best friends cannot describe
you as constant or reliable.

CAVE.--Unless you rouse yourself and use a little more push, you are
likely to remain in obscurity all your life.

CELERY.--A vigorous body and active mind which will preserve the
energies of youth to a good old age.

CHAIN.--An engagement or wedding; an entangled chain means a dilemma
which will tax your ingenuity to the utmost; a long, thick chain
indicates ties that you wish to undo; a broken one, trouble in store.

CHAIR.--A small chair shows an arrival; a large one, deliberation over a
new plan. See also CARRYING CHAIR, ROCKING CHAIR.

CHATELAINE.--This signifies that a variety of people will be
instrumental in your career; it is also an indication that you are
somewhat inclined to depend too much on sentimental and demonstrative
affection.

CHAMPAGNE GLASS.--This is a symbol of good fortune and delight; to the
sick, a good omen of recovery.

CHEESE.--A large cheese denotes that you will benefit by the generosity
of prosperous friends.

CHERRIES.--A love affair, happiness, and health, are the meanings of
this symbo

[splodge0]

CHESTNUT TREE.--An event of interest and importance may be expected in
the spring.

CHESTNUTS.--These show determination in carrying out a scheme which you
think will benefit you.

CHICKEN.--This shows new interests and pleasures; if roosting, domestic
tribulation; if flying, troublesome matters.

CHILD.--This is a sign that you will soon be making fresh plans or
forming new projects; a child running means bad news or threatened
danger; at play, tranquillity and pleasure.

CHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.--Occasions of sadness and joy in quick
succession.

CHILD WITH DANCING-DOLL.--The gratification of a wish through an
entirely unexpected means.

CHILD WITH TAMBOURINE.--Pleasure, lightheartedness, coming good news.

CHIMNEY.--Unless you are cautious you will take a false step; a chimney
with smoke to be seen means that you are content, and find pleasure in
daily routine and a somewhat commonplace life.

CHINAMAN.--There is someone who appears eager to serve you but in
reality is far from being trustworthy.

CHINESE LANTERN.--False security, the evidence of which will soon be
brought to your notice.

CHISEL.--A symbol of losses, dismay, and trouble.

CHRISTMAS TREE.--This sign indicates that you may expect some special
happiness at the Christmas season.

CHRYSANTHEMUMS.--These beautiful flowers assure you of a long desired
hope in connection with someone dear to you which will be realised in
the autumn.

CHURCH.--Courage, honour, and tranquillity; a legacy.

CHURNING.--This is a happy omen for good and successful results in all
you undertake; you will be fortunate and will always take a turn in the
right direction for your own happiness.

CIGAR.--A wealthy friend or lover who will absorb all your thoughts; a
broken cigar signifies a disagreeable incident or a quarrel.

CIRCLE.--Money, presents, an engagement, faithful friends.

CLAPPER FOR SCARING BIRDS.--This sign proclaims that you are offended at
small faults or failings in others, and are always eager to bring them
into notice, but are blind to your own more obvious deficiencies.

CLARIONET.--A pleasure which will be gratified in an unlooked-for
manner.

CLAW.--This symbol foretells scandal or evil influence.

CLENCHED HAND.--Indignation; disputes.

CLERGYMAN.--Reconciliation in a long-standing feud.

CLOCK.--A sign that you desire to hurry over the present and arrive at a
time to which you are looking forward.

CLOUDS.--These denote disappointment, failure of plans, and dismay.

CLOVER.--A very lucky sign of coming good fortune.

CLOVES.--This symbol proclaims the desire for appreciation and the wish
to appear at your best on all occasions.

CLOWN.--Your folly is apparent to everyone.

CLUBS.--See GOLF CLUBS, ACE OF CLUBS.

COACH.--If with horses, you may look forward to a time of ease and
luxury; if without horses, it warns you against an act of folly or a
harmful indiscretion.

COAL.--Prosperity and good fellowship

COAL-SCOOP.--This signifies domestic difficulties or vexation at the
turn things have taken.

COAL SCUTTLE.--You will adapt yourself to unaccustomed circumstances
requiring much energy.

COAT.--Sadness caused through a parting; if the coat is ragged,
distressing news; without sleeves, failure in a new undertaking.

COBBLER.--This predicts a life of arduous and ill-paid work, poor
health, and a struggle to make both ends meet.

COBRA.--A warning of grave danger to you or yours.

COCK.--A sign of forthcoming good news, of conquest and triumph.

COCKATOO.--This bird indicates disturbance in the home and some vexation
with friends.

COCKCHAFER.--This predicts a bad harvest season; flying, the arrival of
sudden news of a somewhat disagreeable nature.

COCOANUT.--Travel or interesting discoveries.

COFFEE POT.--Dependence on creature comforts; slight indisposition.

COFFIN.--A bad omen of coming bereavement; a coffin with a sword beside
it shows death of a soldier; with a flag, that of a sailor; with
snowdrops, death of a child or infant.

COLLAR.--Perseverance in the face of obstacles will bring you a great
reward.

COLLAR-STUD.--A reminder of some tiresome or disagreeable little duty
which you would fain forget.

COLUMBINE.--These flowers foretell the renewal of a former friendship
which is brought about by means of an unthought-of meeting.

COMB.--You will find out that your confidence in someone was misplaced
and this discovery will cause you much distress.

COMET.--Favourable weather; unusual and interesting events; to lovers it
is an unfavourable omen of separation and blighted hope.

COMPASSES.--This sign implies that you may expect to travel and to spend
your life in interesting activities.

CONCERTINA.--This symbol proclaims dilatory habits and feeble wit.

CONDUCTOR.--See MUSIC CONDUCTOR.

CONVOLVULI.--This flower shows feelings of sadness; love and hope which
have lasted but a short time now leave only memories to which you cling.

CORKS.--This sign shows the power of adapting yourself to your company,
and of proving yourself useful in awkward situations.

CORKSCREW.--This denotes that you will be vexed by inquisitive people
who trouble you with questions.

CORMORANT.--This bird is a symbol of agility, swift decisions, and the
attainment of your ambition through the power of rapid thought and work.

CORN.--This is a pleasant omen of wealth and success.

CORNUCOPIA.--This symbol predicts great happiness and unqualified
success.

COVER.--See MEAT COVER.

COW.--A calm, contented state of mind, peaceful and prosperous days.

COWSLIPS.--A sign of joy; to the married it foretells a birth.

CRAB.--Strife, family disagreements, an enemy.

CRADLE.--A birth; a broken cradle, sorrow or anxiety about a child.

CRANE.--Heavy burdens and anxiety are indicated by this symbol.

CRESTS.--These are often to be seen and must to some extent be read in
connection with other signs in the cup; large crests indicate news of,
or communications with, those in positions of authority; small crests,
interesting family developments.

CRICKET BAT.--A love of sport and a keen desire for fair play in all
matters.

CRINOLINE.--This predicts that unless you retrench in your expenditure,
you will have but a pittance to spend upon your dress.

CROCUSES.--These flowers are an emblem of joy, and of radiant happiness
in love.

CROQUET-MALLET.--A cheerful and patient disposition, always making the
best of things, is the meaning of this symbol.

CROSS.--You must expect to meet with hindrances and obstacles in the way
of your desires; sorrow and misfortune are also indicated by this
symbol. See also MALTESE CROSS.

CROSSED KEYS.--A sign of authority, power and honour, and an assurance
of comfort and help in times of difficulty or doubt.

CROWN.--Advancement and honour; the attainment of your highest ambition.

CRUTCHES.--This is an unpleasant sign of forthcoming illness or accident
which causes lameness for the time being.

CUCUMBER.--A new plan successfully carried out.

CUP.--A large cup tells of a splendid opportunity coming your way which
will insure your future success; a small cup means that a little anxiety
is before you.

CUPBOARD.--Disappointment in money affairs.

CURTAIN.--This symbol proclaims that someone is hiding a matter from you
which it would be to your advantage to learn; with other signs in the
cup which are good you may conclude that the matter will be revealed to
you shortly.

CUSTARD-GLASSES.--A signal of illness, possibly chicken pox or measles.

CYPRESS.--This tree indicates that you bravely face a difficulty, and
finally overcome it by your own endeavours.


D

DAFFODILS.--A long-desired hope is about to come to pass, or a
delightful holiday spent in the company of those most congenial to you.

DAGGER.--If near and pointing towards consultant, it would be a bad sign
of danger from wounds or an operation; if more distant, it shows a much
less personal danger.

DAHLIAS.--A sign of some important event which you may expect to take
place in the autumn; it also denotes thrift and increase of fortune.

DAISIES.--These imply that you have an attractive, child-like nature,
finding happiness in simple pleasures; a circle of daisies means that
you attract someone to you of the same nature as yourself who will
become all the world to you.

DAMSONS.--These denote complication of your affairs.

DANCE.--See BALLET DANCE.

DANCER.--A pleasant omen of coming pleasure and gratification, good
news, happiness in love and friendship; it also means that you will
receive an unexpected invitation; several figures dancing in happy
abandonment foretell that your hopes and desires will be fulfilled, and
that many changes will occur, all tending to your success and future
happiness.

DANCING-DOLL.--See CHILD WITH DANCING DOLL.

DANDELION.--Unexpected news of the marriage of an old friend whom you
had always supposed would never marry.

DATES.--A pleasure which is unlikely to come up to your expectations is
the meaning of this symbol.

DEER.--An unfortunate indication that your ventures in new directions of
work or business will end in failure; if running, a fruitless endeavour
to undo your past mistakes; a dead deer, that you will be the innocent
cause of distress to someone you love.

DESK.--You will receive a letter which will upset you, or you will lose
the friendship of someone with whom you have corresponded regularly for
many years.

DEVIL.--This symbol gives warning that reformation is needed, or you may
find yourself so tightly in the grip of bad influence that it will be
well-nigh impossible to extricate yourself.

DIADEM.--This ensign of royalty shows that your ambition is realised
beyond your expectations; wonderful good fortune and influential friends
assure you of an unusually successful career.

DIAMONDS.--See ACE OF DIAMONDS.

DISH.--Anxiety in household matters; a broken dish is a foretaste of a
greater loss.

DIVER.--A great and unexpected piece of news which will lead to a
fortunate discovery; to the lover, it reveals deception.

DIVING-BELL.--This sign predicts that you may one day find yourself in
danger on the sea or river.

DOG.--This symbol has many meanings which must be read in accordance
with the other symbols; in a general way this sign indicates adverse
conditions, the thwarting of life's chances, unfortunate love affairs,
family misfortune and money troubles; a large dog sometimes signifies
protection and good friends; a small dog, vexation and impatience.

DOLL.--A festivity at which you will endeavour to conceal your feelings
of boredom under somewhat foolish hilarity. See also CHILD WITH DANCING
DOLL, RAG DOLL.

DOLPHIN.--A cheerful and optimistic character, pleasure on the sea or
river.

DOVECOT.--Peace in the home.

DOVES.--These birds give a personal message of happiness and an
assurance of faithfulness in love, peaceful circumstances, high ideals,
and progress; to those who are at enmity this symbol proclaims
reconciliation; to the sick or anxious, comfort and hope; to a business
man, a fortunate omen of success.

DRAGON.--Great and sudden changes about which there is an element of
danger.

DRAGON-FLY.--Tidings of unexpected occurrences, unlooked-for events, new
and advantageous opportunities, sometimes new clothes or furniture.

DRUM.--A hazardous enterprise or expedition is the meaning of this
symbol.

DRUMMER.--To a man, this foreshows popularity and a successful public
career; to a woman, social success, a large following of friends and
admirers, and power of gaining her own ends.

DUCK.--A sign of a taste for speculation; if more than one duck, success
in work and enterprise, profitable undertakings.

DUMB BELL.--A chance meeting which will lead to the making of a new
friend.

DUSTPAN AND BRUSH.--You will be certain to hear of domestic tribulation
amongst your friends or relatives; if this symbol appears in your cup
with other signs of vexation, it would indicate personal domestic
annoyance.

DWARF.--This portends calamity, accident, or disgrace.


E

EAGLE.--This predicts that you may expect most beneficial changes, the
realisation of a long-cherished hope, and possibly an inheritance of
wealth from an unexpected source; a flying eagle shows the coming of
wealth and honour after a change of residence; with a vulture, death of
a monarch; a dead eagle, public loss and mourning.

EAGLE'S NEST.--An eagle on its nest foretells association with those in
places of authority and honour; it also denotes a life of wealth and
ease.

EAR.--A large ear shows that you will be shocked by hearing of some
scandal or abuse; a normal ear means that you will receive some
interesting and pleasant piece of news or valuable information.

EAR-RINGS.--To a man this symbol proclaims the displeasure of one of the
opposite sex; to a woman, the humiliation of unrequited affection.

EARWIG.--A sign of uncomfortable discoveries in the home, troubles with
domestics, deceit and prying.

EASEL.--A sign of marriage to widows and maids; to the married, increase
of worldly goods; this symbol must be read in connection with other
indications in the cup.

EELS.--This is an unpleasant symbol meaning malicious tongues and
treacherous friends, also gossip over money matters.

EGG-CUP.--A sign of an escape from a threatened disaster.

EGGS.--New plans and ideas, or a birth.

ELEPHANT.--A sign of power, travel, promotion, happiness and stability
in love and friendship.

ELF.--This symbol should put you on your guard or you may be the victim
of an unpleasant practical joke.

ELM TREE.--A good omen of prosperity and coming happiness.

EMU.--Lack of caution will not be one of your failings.

ENGINE.--Journeys, trouble on the railway, strikes, accident, and hasty
news are the meanings of this symbol.

ENSIGN.--See FLAG.

ESCAPE.--See FIRE ESCAPE.

EXTINGUISHER.--See CANDLE EXTINGUISHER.

EYE.--This signifies penetration and the solving of difficulties; it
also shows depth of character and love.

EYEGLASSES.--You will make a beneficial discovery through surprising
means.


F

FACES.--Several of these denote an invitation to a party or wedding;
ugly faces mean disturbances or bad news; pretty faces, pleasure and
love; two faces upon one head, looking diverse ways, indicate that you
may hear yourself accused of deception and falseness, or that these
things may be practised upon you; a bearded face, health and strength,
but an indolent nature, which is a source of vexation to those around
you.

FALCON.--This bird warns you to be on your guard, for you have an enemy.

FAN.--Love of admiration, frivolity, pleasure with the opposite sex.

FATE.--This is indicated by a straight thin line of tea leaves which
ascends towards the consultant; what may be expected of fate must be
judged by the line itself and other signs in the cup.

FEATHERS.--Large feathers signify achievement and prosperity; to
authors, literary success; small feathers denote something of which you
are afraid, but which you will meet with courage.

FEET.--You will be called upon to take a decisive step in some matter
which may lead up to an eventful change in your life.

FENCE.--This means that there is but a step between you and success.

FENDER.--You will constantly come in contact with someone to whom you
feel a strong antipathy.

FERNS.--Dignity, peace, and steadfast love are the meanings of this
symbol.

FERRET.--Jealousy and enmity are likely to cause you distress.

FERRY-BOAT.--This symbol implies that difficulties will be smoothed away
for you by the aid of good and useful friends.

FIELD MARSHAL'S HAT.--To a soldier, or those who are associated with
them, this is a sign of coming promotion, triumph, and of the attainment
to honour.

FIGS.--These indicate joy and abundance of the good things of this
world; to those in business it is an omen of success and prosperity.

FIGUREHEAD OF A SHIP.--A good omen for your future Welfare; this symbol
predicts that you will be enabled to steer your course through smooth
waters.

FIGURES.--See NUMBERS, HUMAN FIGURES, RUNNING FIGURES.

FINGER.--This usually indicates a special need for attention to be paid
to adjoining symbols.

FIRE-ENGINE.--An evidence of a serious fire of which you will hear or
from which you will suffer; this must be judged by other indications in
the cup.

FIRE-ESCAPE.--An urgent warning to take all precautions against fire.

FIREPLACE.--Your chief interests in life will probably lie in your home;
small duties, simple pleasures, and a circle of friends.

FISH.--News from abroad; with other signs of movement, emigration; a
starfish is a sign of good luck.

FLAG.--Danger, rebellion, and war are the meanings of this symbol.

FLOWER-BORDER.--That for which you have long hoped and waited is about
to come to pass.

FLOWERS.--Many pleasant meanings may be given to this symbol, good
fortune, happiness, love, marriage, and a large circle of admiring
friends, being among them. See also BASKET OF FLOWERS, FOXGLOVES, LILY,
FORGET-ME-NOT.

FLY.--This signifies small vexations and annoyances which will ruffle
you considerably. See also BLUEBOTTLE FLY, DRAGON FLY.

FONT.--News of a birth or an invitation to a christening party.

FOOT.--This indicates a journey; a swollen foot, injury, or news of an
accident to the foot.

FOOTBALL.--Love of outdoor games, or a keen interest in the welfare of
those who take part in them, is shown by this symbol.

FORGE.--This implies a need for refinement and of reconstructing your
ideas on many subjects.

FORGET-ME-NOT.--This flower speaks of the attainment of a cherished
hope, also that you will probably find your truest happiness in love and
marriage.

FORK.--This warns you against those who constantly flatter you; it would
be well for you to be on your guard or you may one day awake to the fact
that all this flattery was used as a tool to harm you.

FOUNTAIN.--A most favourable omen foretelling happiness, success in love
and marriage, prosperity in business, and good fortune in all you
undertake; this symbol also points to an unexpected legacy.

FOX.--This denotes that you may have an unsuspected enemy, possibly
disloyal dependents; sometimes it means theft and trickery.

FOXGLOVES.--These show ambition and attainment; if broken or bending,
defeated plans and hopes.

FROG.--A change of residence; with other signs, new work or profession;
with bad symbols around, unpleasant sights and stories.

FRUIT.--A happy sign of forthcoming prosperity and general advancement.


G

GAITERS.--Your chief interests will be in outdoor work and amusements;
intellectual pursuits will not attract you; to clergy, or to those
associated with them, gaiters indicate promotion.

GALLOWS.--An omen of great distress and tragedy.

GARDEN ROLLER.--An indication that things around you are liable to
become somewhat unmanageable, and that you will need tact and strength
to avoid being crushed by circumstances.

GARLAND.--A sign of happiness, love and honour.

GARTERS.--A contempt for feminine weakness is the meaning of this sign.

GATE.--An excellent opportunity awaits you, perhaps the chance of a
lifetime; massive high gates denote restriction, misery, or
imprisonment.

GEESE.--These indicate the arrival of unexpected and rather troublesome
visitors.

GENTIAN.--A memory which is interwoven with sorrow and joy.

GERANIUM.--This flower shows a strong will and determined character,
contentment, and happiness; it also denotes two opposite natures who
have a great bond of affection between them.

GIANT.--There is, or will be, a serious obstacle in your path.

GIMLET.--You will be unpleasantly reminded of a disagreeable fact.

GIRAFFE.--You are apt to cause mischief through blundering and the
making of incorrect statements.

GLADIOLI.--These flowers indicate courage in the face of difficulty;
hope and tenderness.

GLASSES.--These show that you will entertain your friends on a lavish
scale, and delight in hospitality, but will occasionally be confronted
by difficulties in your arrangements. See also CHAMPAGNE GLASS,
CUSTARD-GLASSES, EYEGLASSES, HAND GLASS.

GLEANER.--You will always endeavour to make the best of the
circumstances in which you find yourself but will seldom possess the
most desirable things in life.

GOAT.--A new enterprise which has an element of risk about it; a goat is
an unfortunate sign to sailors or to those connected with them.

GOLF CLUBS.--These indicate a life so full of work that there is but
little leisure for recreation.

GONDOLA.--A visit to Italy, or a romance are the meanings of this sign.

GONG-AND-STICK.--This symbol warns you to expect little else than the
"trivial round and common task" for the present.

GOOSE.--A venture needing much discussion and arrangement; plans are
made only to be upset again, and unless you proceed with caution, you
are likely to make a bad mistake.

GRAMOPHONE.--This usually portends vexation at being drawn into a
somewhat disorderly and noisy pleasure.

GRAPES.--These signify pleasure, abundance, fulfilment, and a life free
from care.

GRASSHOPPERS.--These insects give warning of a poor harvest season; for
an old person the risk of chill leading to severe illness.

GRAVE.--This symbol must be read in accordance with its position, also
with reference to other signs in the cup; as a general rule, with gloomy
signs it would bring a message of coming sorrow, or with cheerful
symbols that a death would benefit the consultant.

GREYHOUND.--This sign stands for energy and untiring activity which will
bring you unqualified success; it also denotes that you may expect
favourable tidings of the result of a new enterprise.

GRINDSTONE.--The aftermath of an indiscretion.

GUITAR.--This symbol displays strong power of attraction for the
opposite sex, also pleasant adventures ending in a happy love affair.

GUN.--A very disquieting symbol, grave danger of a sudden calamity; with
other bad signs, a violent death.


H

HAMMER.--Troublesome little tasks which you are reluctant to undertake.

HAMMOCK.--A mournful ending of something to which you had looked forward
with delight.

HAM WITH FRILL.--This denotes a nice invitation, hospitality, pleasure
with your friends; also enjoyment followed by dismay; a ham without a
frill means increasing fortune and success.

HAND.--A sign of good fellowship, loyalty, and affection; it may also
indicate a parting, a meeting or a bargain concluded; other signs around
it must be noticed in order to read its special meaning. See also
CLENCHED HAND.

HANDBELL.--You would much like to startle the world by a wonderful
discovery or amazing theory by which your name would be known for all
time but you will need every possible good symbol to appear in the cup
to give you any assurance of your ambition being gratified.

HANDCUFFS.--Disgrace, imprisonment, misfortune, and dishonesty; this
sign must be read in connection with others around it.

HANDGLASS.--An illusion quickly dispelled is the meaning of this symbol.

HANDSCREEN.--Even small demands sometimes necessitate great effort on
the part of those to whom the demand is made.

HARE.--The return of an absent friend after a long absence; if it is
running, a journey is indicated; a dead hare foreshows money acquired
through industry.

HAREBELL.--Peace, a placid existence, and faithfulness in love are the
meanings of this lovely little flower; with other signs you may expect
news of a birth.

HARP.--This is a sign of melancholy and predicts the possibility of a
nervous breakdown.

HARRISSI LILY.--These graceful flowers predict peace, joy, hope, and a
wedding.

HARROW.--This shows that much of your time will be given endeavouring to
make the lives of those around you smooth and happy, whilst you
cheerfully spend your days in a somewhat monotonous manner.

HARVEST.--A shock of corn is a somewhat sad emblem showing that you have
sown that of which the reaping will be tears; it is also a warning of
illness, especially to the aged.

HASTENER FOR ROASTING MEAT.--You are reminded that you should endeavour
to move with the times, and not cling so tenaciously to ideas and habits
which are now obsolete.

HAT.--A symbol of luck, presents, success in new work or enterprise;
sometimes it foreshows the arrival of a visitor.

HAWK.--This is an unfortunate symbol, as it denotes circumstances in
which people and things seem to be working against you, placing you in
awkward and embarrassing predicaments.

HAYRICK.--This indicates a desire for mastery and preeminence; it also
shows that a doubt will arise as to how best to proceed, but you will
find the right way out and will come to a wise decision.

HEAD.--A large head gives warning of family trouble or of serious
illness; a very small head, waning ability or power; several heads,
mental distress or derangement.

HEARSE.--A sign of bereavement or of sad news of those who are bereaved.

HEART.--A sign of coming happiness through the affections bringing joy
into your life, or satisfaction through money, according to other signs
near.

HEARTS.--See ACE OF HEARTS.

HEATHER.--A most fortunate sign of gratified wishes and of coming good
luck; to lovers it is an assurance of much happiness.

HEDGE.--This shows that through energy and perseverance you will
surmount obstacles and carry all before you.

HEDGEHOG.--You will be immensely surprised by hearing that someone whom
you had always thought of as a confirmed bachelor is about to be
married.

HEMLOCK.--The shadows of your past life have an inconvenient habit of
appearing at the most awkward moments.

HENS.--Comfort and domestic felicity; a hen roosting shows domestic
annoyance and money worries.

HIGHLANDER.--This is a sign of sound business capacity and a plodding
contriver in transactions.

HIVE.--See BEEHIVE.

HOCKEY-STICK.--A keenness for games and success in the playing of them.

HOE.--This means that you will often have more to do than you can well
accomplish; each day things will occur needing your attention and
increasing your work, but in spite of it you will have good health and
cheerfulness.

HOLLY.--This indicates that something of importance may be expected to
occur in the winter; unless gloomy signs appear in the cup, it may be
assumed that the event will be a happy one.

HOLLYHOCK.--You will have a friend, or lover, who will never disappoint
you.

HONEYCOMB.--Prosperous undertakings, honour and renown, and much which
is delightful are foreshown by this symbol.

HOOP.--You will find immense satisfaction in doing things that require
energy even if they are of little importance.

HORNS.--You have a powerful enemy, or at least someone who has feelings
of animosity towards you, which may prove to be unpleasant in their
result.

HORSE.--Comforts, loyal friends, and pleasure; galloping horses mean
that events are hurrying towards you over which you have no control,
bringing many changes into your life. See also CARRIAGE AND HORSES.

HORSE-COLLAR.--To those who own horses, or do business with them, this
sign is a pleasant indication of success in some transaction; to others
it would imply toil and a strenuous effort to keep things going.

HORSEMAN.--See MOUNTED HORSEMAN.

HORSESHOE.--An unexpected piece of good fortune, the achievement of your
wish, and good luck in all you undertake; a double horseshoe hastens the
arrival of your desires; a horseshoe reversed means an upset of plans
causing much disappointment and vexation; a broken one denotes a
dilemma, trials, or discomforts.

HOT-WATER BOTTLE.--You will always find compensation in all trials and
discomforts.

HOT-WATER CAN.--Indisposition, irritability, annoyances.

HOURGLASS.--A warning against delay in arrangements or thought-of plans;
with other signs, the hourglass is a grave warning of peril through
illness or accident.

HOUSE.--A successful transaction, a visit, a new home.

HUMAN FIGURES.--These must be judged with regard to what they appear to
be doing.

HYACINTH.--This flower predicts love, joy, and gratified ambition.


I

IBEX ON ROCK.--After a time of strenuous effort and struggle, you will
achieve triumph and a position of security and peace.

INDIAN.--This symbol predicts news from India; the nature of the
information, whether personal, public, pleasant, or the reverse, must be
judged by other indications in the cup.

INITIALS.--These frequently occur, and usually point to names of people
from whom you may expect to hear shortly; or they may indicate places.

INKPOT.--Expectancy.

IRIS.--These flowers bring a message of hope and pleasure.

IRON.--Small vexations or troubles which will quickly pass, is the
meaning of this symbol.

IVORY.--This foretells increased wealth and a well-merited reward for
past industry.

IVY.--Patience, understanding, steadfastness, and loyal friends are
indicated by this sign.


J

JACKDAW.--Sagacity, dependable friends, and knowledge acquired by
persevering study.

JAM.--Pots of jam caution you against extravagance and waste.

JELLY.--This foreshows a time of pleasure and a time of pain.

JEMMY.--A bad attack of toothache is indicated by this weapon.

JEWELLERY.--You may expect an increase of wealth, possibly good presents
also.

JOCKEY.--Successful dealing and good money enterprise; luck in racing
and speculation.

JOHN BULL.--This figure implies that you are likely to witness, or
partake in, an event of national importance.

JUDGE IN ROBES.--Legal affairs, personal or otherwise according to other
indications in the cup; this sign is often seen during a famous trial or
when such is about to take place.

JUG.--This shows good health and money making.

JUMPING FIGURE.--Change which will be greatly to your advantage.


K

KANGAROO.--You will receive an unlooked-for and interesting piece of
news; sometimes it indicates that you have a rival.

KETTLE.--This is a sign of illness; unless a human figure appears beside
it, the illness is probably for the consultant; it is an omen of coming
trouble.

KEY.--Circumstances will improve, things will become easy, and your path
will be made smooth; you may hope for success in whatever you have on
hand; a key at some distance from the consultant denotes the need for
the assistance of good and influential friends in times of difficulty.
See also CROSSED KEYS.

KEYHOLE.--This gives warning of a need for caution, for someone of whom
you feel no suspicion is untrustworthy.

KINGFISHER.--This beautiful bird signifies the return of someone for
whom you have been longing; if flying, news of a surprising nature will
speedily arrive.

KING ON HIS THRONE.--Security and peace; it may also mean that you gain
a high position through influential friends.

KITE.--Vanishing pleasures and benefits, or scandal, are the meanings of
this sign.

KNEELING FIGURE.--A new enterprise or project; care should be taken to
think it over well; do nothing rashly and seek reliable advice.

KNIFE.--This is an unpleasant sign of quarrels, broken friendship, and
tears.

KNIGHT IN ARMOUR.--This sign predicts good fortune, success in love, and
loyalty to your friends.

KNIVES.--These signify danger of wounds, attacks of pain, and dismay.


L

LABURNUM TREE.--A sign of delight and the fulfilment of a cherished
hope, probably occurring in the spring.

LADDER.--This signifies advancement, influential friends, and the
attainment of good fortune.

LAMB.--An indication that you will be amazed by the success of a
doubtful undertaking. See also PRANCING LAMB.

LAMP.--This sign provides an assurance of good success in business. See
also STREET LAMP.

LANTERN.--This shows that fear and doubt will mar your happiness and
progress. See also CHINESE LANTERN.

LAUREL.--This tree points to power, ability and health.

LEAVES.--Prosperous results of your diligence, new friends, and
satisfaction.

LEEK.--This implies that you are anxious to come to the root of some
matter of which at present you have only an inkling; with good signs
around, you may expect to come to a satisfactory understanding.

LEG.--This foretells a successful race with fortune.

LEG OF MUTTON.--Depression and pecuniary worries is the meaning of this
sign.

LEOPARD.--This animal foreshows triumph over adverse circumstances or an
evil report; two leopards, fortune and misfortune following each other
in quick succession.

LETTERS.--These are shown by oblong or square tea-leaves, initials near
give the name of the writer; with dots around they will contain money.

LETTUCE.--This shows sleeplessness, possibly from the receiving of some
perturbing news.

LIGHTHOUSE.--A good sign of security and of light on your path whenever
it is most needed; if crooked or broken, disaster at sea.

LIGHTNING.--Forked lightning seen in a zig-zag up the side of the cup
shows bad weather conditions; if near the figure of a man or woman, it
may possibly indicate death from lightning or electrical mechanism; if
seen at the bottom of the cup and with a clear space indicating water,
it would mean bad storms abroad causing damage and loss.

LILAC.--This is an emblem of radiant happiness; joys shared with
another, with whom there is perfect oneness of purpose and love.

LILY-OF-THE-VALLEY.--A fortunate omen of realisation, love, and
marriage. See also ARUM LILY, BELLADONNA LILY, MADONNA LILY, HARRISSI
LILY, WATER LILY.

LIMPETS.--These denote that you endeavour to wrest from others some
valuable secret which they possess, but without success; limpets are a
sign of good luck to fishermen and promise a big haul of fish.

LINES OF DOTS.--These indicate journeys and their probable length and
direction; to be read in connection with other signs of movement; wavy
lines mean tiresome journeys or difficulties likely to be encountered;
if the lines ascend sharply to the brim of the cup, a journey to a hilly
country will be taken.

LION.--One of the most fortunate symbols indicating high hopes and
excellent prospects, association with distinguished persons, honour, and
fame.

LIZARD.--This suggests treachery and the probability of a plot being
laid against you by false and deceitful friends.

LOBSTER.--A pleasant event, or a good present, is shown by this symbol.

LOCK AND KEY.--You are warned against the loss of something which you
value.

LOOKING-GLASS.--This implies a desire to know the truth, even if it be
unpleasant to you.

LORD MAYOR'S COACH.--You will receive a good offer from an unexpected
quarter.

LUTE.--This is a sign of a secret sadness of which those around you know
nothing; to musicians, a good omen of success.

LYNX.--To the married a bad omen of estrangement, possibly divorce; to
others it denotes treachery or episodes of a painful nature.


M

MACARONI.--This proclaims the sad fact that you must endeavour to make
sixpence do the work of a shilling.

MACE.--Promotion, a position of authority and achievement.

MACHINE.--See AUTOMATIC MACHINE.

MADONNA LILY.--This flower means perfection and peace, and the assurance
of love and truth.

MAGNET.--You will be drawn by an irresistible attraction towards someone
for whom you will eventually feel more dislike than affection.

MAGNIFYING GLASS.--You are given to such exaggeration that it amounts to
untruthfulness.

MAGNOLIA.--This tree brings calm and peaceful conditions after a time of
unrest.

MAGPIE.--"One for sorrow, two for mirth, three for a wedding, four for a
birth"; this ancient saying well explains the meaning of seeing magpies
in the tea-leaves.

MAHL STICK.--See ARTIST'S MAHL STICK.

MALLET.--You will arrive at a wise conclusion in a difficult matter. See
also CROQUET MALLET.

MALTESE CROSS.--You will emerge from one source of vexation or trouble
only to fall into another.

MAN.--You may expect a visitor.

MAN CARRYING A BURDEN.--An unhappy marriage or an unfortunate love
affair.

MAN CARRYING MACE.--This points to personal promotion or the advancement
of someone dear to you.

MAN SPEAKING FROM A PLATFORM.--Public news or developments which will
specially interest or concern you.

MARROW.--See VEGETABLE MARROW.

MARS.--This sign will often be seen, and indicates a courageous,
energetic nature, fond of exploits and freedom, and shows a capacity for
strenuous work; a fortunate symbol for a soldier.

MASK.--For a lover, this predicts that unpleasant facts will come to
light, of which at present there is no suspicion, leading to an abrupt
ending of the love affair.

MASS OF LEAVES.--Arrivals and departures about which there are little
difficulties.

MAST.--This symbol must be read in connection with the surrounding
signs.

MASTIFF.--This dog warns you of an unexpected emergency in which there
is danger of your being overpowered by the arguments of those who are
masterful.

MAYPOLE.--This shows that you find but little satisfaction in your
amusements and gaiety; for whilst you appear to enter into them in a
light-hearted manner, you are craving for further excitement.

MAY TREE.--This signifies the receiving of a joyous message.

MEAT.--A sign of financial worry.

MEAT COVER.--An unpleasant emergency or discovery.

MEDAL.--You will be rewarded for past industry by future prosperity.

MEDICINE BOTTLE.--An unpleasant sign of illness.

MEDLAR.--This tree predicts a condition of transient happiness.

MEERSCHAUM PIPE.--You will be disturbed by some news from a man who has
much influence in your life.

MELON.--This means gratification and good news, and the deriving of much
pleasure from the appreciation of those whose good opinion is of value
to you.

MERCURY.--This planet is constantly seen in the tea-leaves and is a
symbol of ceaseless activity of striving to attain great things; it also
indicates good business capacity.

MERMAID.--To those associated with the sea, this is a warning of
shipwreck or other peril.

MERRYTHOUGHT.--The attainment of a wish or small pleasure.

MICE.--These indicate danger of poverty through fraud or theft.

MILK-CANS.--These show an agricultural enterprise that will be to your
advantage.

MILK-CHURN.--A good emblem of future comfort and increased happiness.

MILKING-STOOL.--A new venture about which you will feel somewhat dubious
but which with care will be carried out successfully.

MINE-SHAFT.--This is a hopeful sign of coming peace after a time of
discontent amongst miners, or a coal strike.

MIRROR.--Prophetic dreams; a love of truth.

MISTLETOE.--This signifies that a cherished hope is unlikely to be
fulfilled, or at any rate it will only be after many months have passed,
and when you have become weary of waiting.

MITRE.--A prediction of honour and promotion for a clergyman.

MONK.--Religious controversy and disturbances.

MONKEY.--This is an unpleasant indication that ugly rumours and scandal
will be spread about you or yours; sometimes public notoriety; with
other signs, it foreshows grief and pain.

MONKEY-ON-ORGAN.--Difficult circumstances and a hard struggle are the
meanings of this sign.

MONKEY PUZZLE TREE.--A task lies before you which you will find hard,
but for which you will afterwards be rewarded by meeting with great
success.

MONOGRAMS.--These will often be found in the tea-leaves and will
indicate someone of much importance in your life, whose initials are
shown by the monogram.

MONUMENT.--Someone in whose career you are much interested will rise to
fame.

MOON.--A crescent moon denotes good news, fortune, and romance; for a
man it predicts public recognition and honour.

MORTAR.--A sign of gloom, illness, emergencies.

MOTOR CAR.--Short journeys by road or rail, visits from friends; with
other signs, some increase of fortune may be expected.

MOUNTAIN.--This gives promise of the realisation of a great ambition and
of the influence of powerful friends; many mountains indicate
obstructions and sometimes powerful enemies in your career.

MOUNTED HORSEMAN.--A sign of good friends, luck, and advantageous
offers.

MOUSE.--This invariably indicates that there is need for a trap to be
set; it also gives warning that domestic worries are to be expected.

MUFF.--This implies caprice and ostentation.

MUG.--This symbol predicts a merry meeting.

MUSHROOM.--This predicts that you will take a small risk and achieve a
great success; to lovers, it foreshows a quarrel and possibly a broken
engagement.

MUSIC CONDUCTOR.--A good sign to a musician; to others it suggests that
enthusiasm and good spirits will carry them through life very happily.

MUTTON CHOP.--Fruitless discussion or indisposition are the meanings of
this sign. See also LEG OF MUTTON.

MYRTLE TREE.--This speaks of affection and peace; a declaration of love,
and a happy marriage.


N

NAIL.--Toothache and painful dentistry are foreshown by this sign.

NAMES.--To see the name of a person or place, signifies events occurring
in connection with such person or place; if good symbols appear,
pleasant happenings may be expected; if gloomy signs, then trouble will
arise associated with the name seen.

NARCISSUS.--This flower shows sentiment and coming joy; also that some
new idea will unfold itself to you in the spring and will prove to be of
much advantage to you.

NATIVE WITH "TOM-TOM".--This foreshows news of disturbance in India or
news of a personal nature which will cause anxiety.

NECKLACE.--A good present or money; a broken necklace shows that you
will break a bond which you have grown to feel is unendurable.

NEEDLES.--These denote mischief and deceit; sometimes disappointment in
love.

NEPTUNE.--This planetary symbol indicates a condition of chaos.

NEST.--See BIRD'S NEST, EAGLE'S NEST.

NET.--Toil or anxiety followed by amazing achievement and good fortune.

NINEPINS.--These show a mind determined to gain success whatever the
cost in drudgery.

NOSE.--A large nose denotes dissipation; a crooked one shows a wayward
and untrustworthy character; a long, thin nose implies that you change
your ideas on various subjects and alter your mode of life in accordance
with your new ideas.

NOSEGAY.--See BOUQUET.

NOTICE-BOARD.--Your attention will be called to some fact which it will
be to your advantage to learn.

NUMBERS.--These are frequently found in the tea-leaves, and must be read
in conjunction with surrounding symbols. If the consultant has a lucky
number, and this appears with good signs, it promises much success. An
unlucky number with gloomy signs predicts misfortune. A journey with a
five near obviously points out that it will be taken in five days, or
weeks, and so on. Ten dots, close together, means ten pounds or
shillings, according to the size and number of the dots. Numbers with
the symbol of a legacy show the amount to be expected.

NUN.--This is a sign that you will probably remain unmarried through
your own choice; to the married it implies unjust suspicion.

NURSE.--A nurse in uniform usually foretells illness for yourself or for
someone dear to you.

NUT-CRACKERS.--This portends that you will strive to solve a difficult
problem, the result of which is of much importance to you.

NUTS.--Gratified ambition and wealth are indicated by nuts.


O

OAK TREE.--This is a good omen of wealth, strength, and attainment of
cherished hopes; for a lover, it predicts happiness and prosperity in
marriage.

OAR.--Sport; amusements; a broken oar denotes recklessness for which you
will pay dearly; for a lover or husband, this means affliction.

OBELISK.--This foreshows honour and wealth.

OIL-CAN.--Work and worry are foretold by this sign.

ONIONS.--You may expect that something which you supposed was a secret
will be discovered, possibly through treacherous friends.

OPERA-GLASSES.--You are in danger of losing the confidence of your
friends because of your inquisitive questions.

ORCHIDS.--These give a pleasing assurance of coming good fortune and a
life of ease and wealth.

ORGAN.--This must be read in connection with other signs around it;
sometimes it means a wedding, death, or realised ambition; to a
musician, it is a good omen of achievement. See also BARREL ORGAN.

OSTRICH.--This symbol points to achievement in creative work; if
running, you may look for startling news and rumours of public
upheavals.

OTTER.--You must expect to receive a disagreeable shock through some
unpleasant spite on the part of those of whom you have always thought
well, and regarded as loyal and affectionate friends.

OVERCOAT.--You may expect to have changes in your life and become of
much importance.

OWL.--A bad omen of illness, misfortune, and poverty; if flying, you
will receive tidings of grief; to lovers this bird is a symbol of bad
news or unpleasant rumours; to those who are contemplating new work or
enterprise the owl should be regarded as a warning to proceed with
caution.

OX.--An ox in his stall implies hospitality, domestic peace and
abundance.

OYSTERS.--These are a sign of enjoyment and expensive tastes, also that
you will appreciate the pleasures of life more in your later years than
in your youthful days.


P

PADLOCK.--An open padlock means a surprise; a closed one, a need for
precaution.

PAGODA.--Foreign travels.

PAIL.--You will be called upon to undertake a variety of things which
you dislike.

PAILS ON YOKE.--In the future you may hope for compensation for past
trials and weariness.

PALACE.--This portends good fortune and favours.

PALETTE.--A hopeful sign of success to an artist or to those associated
with one; to others, it suggests a need for deliberation and advice
before embarking upon a new work or enterprise.

PALM TREE.--This is a symbol of honour, fame, and victory; increase of
wealth, love, and marriage.

PAMPAS GRASS.--This is a sign that you will make a pathetic endeavour to
find happiness in a life which is cast in a somewhat dreary lot.

PAN AND HIS PIPES.--A most cheering symbol which gives an assurance of
happiness, future prosperity, and delight.

PANSY.--This flower is a symbol of understanding, modesty, and
contentment; it is also a pleasant indication of faithful friends and
happy days.

PANTHER.--You may expect to be shocked at the treacherous behaviour of a
friend whom you had always regarded as honourable.

PARADISE.--See BIRD OF PARADISE.

PARALLEL LINES.--These predict well-thought-out and smoothly running
plans.

PARCELS.--These are shown by thick, square or round leaves.

PARROT.--This is a sign of foreign travel, the making of many friends,
and much mental energy; sometimes it gives a hint that there is an
inclination to gossip and spread scandal.

PARSLEY.--Small events will bring you satisfaction.

PEACOCK.--A sign of the acquisition of property; a prosperous and happy
marriage; with other signs, an unfortunate friendship.

PEAKED CAP.--The arrival of a male visitor.

PEARS.--Improved social condition and other advantages; this fruit
brings success to a business man and to a woman a rich husband; one pear
signifies a birth or new plans.

PEDESTRIAN.--An important appointment or urgent business.

PELICAN.--This bird is a symbol of loneliness, separation, and yearning
for the unattainable; if it is flying you will receive news from those
who are far away in isolated parts of the world.

PEN.--See QUILL PEN.

PENGUIN.--This strange bird indicates interesting news of expeditions
and discoveries in the northern regions.

PENKNIFE.--This is an unfortunate symbol of enmity, disloyalty, and
jealousy.

PEONIES.--You will probably be called upon to make a decision of much
importance before another summer is past; broken peonies predict that
you may possibly throw away your chance of happiness by coming to a
wrong conclusion.

PEPPER-POT.--This means vexation and unreasonable irritation which you
will endeavour to conceal.

PERAMBULATOR.--News of a birth.

PESTLE.--A sign of decisive measures; a remedy for a grievance or an
ill.

PHEASANT.--Good fortune; new friends; if flying, speedy and propitious
news.

PIANO.--This is a sign that you will make the most of your opportunities
and will gain that for which you have aimed; to musicians, a sign of
advancement.

PICKAXE.--This sign proclaims labour troubles and strikes.

PIG.--This assures you of gain and success in agricultural interests; it
also denotes that you may expect a present of money or a legacy.

PIGEONS.--These show reconciliation with someone dear to you from whom
you have been estranged; if flying, important and pleasant news is on
its way; if stationary, delay in the arrival of important news.

PILLAR.--A symbol of strength, protection from danger, and of good and
powerful friends; a broken pillar predicts sorrow and despair.

PILLAR BOX.--Important or specially interesting correspondence is the
meaning of this sign.


PINCERS.--A painful experience; an injury; toothache.

PINCUSHION.--Thrift, order, and a well-regulated household.

PINEAPPLE.--A pleasing indication of wealth, rich friends, and good
presents.

PINE TREES.--Happiness followed by an aftermath of regret.

PIPE.--A visit from a dear friend; several pipes foreshow news from a
man who is much in your thoughts. See also MEERSCHAUM PIPE, PAN AND HIS
PIPES.

PISTOL.--An ominous warning of disaster; with other bad signs, of a
violent death.

PITCHER.--This shows an endeavour to relieve a rather dull and
monotonous life, by throwing your energy into somewhat unnecessary work.

PITCHFORK.--A sign that you are apt to stir up feud, and make peace and
quiet impossible.

PLATE.--For the present, you will merely jog along in an ordinary way.

PLAYING CARDS.--See ACE OF CLUBS, ACE OF DIAMONDS, ACE OF HEARTS, and
ACE OF SPADES.

PLOUGH.--You must expect to go through toil and frustration before you
finally conquer your difficulties and achieve triumph.

PLUM PUDDING.--This denotes festivity and cheerfulness.

PLUMS.--These foretell a new development of plans.

POLAR BEAR.--This sign means a journey to a cold climate.

POLICEMAN.--This tells you to beware of theft and underhand practices;
with other signs, it would indicate trouble probably caused by those
with whom you are most closely associated.

POPE.--Unexpected gain and future happiness are foretold by this sign.

POPPY.--This flower is significant of a pleasant occurrence in the early
summer.

PORTER AND TRUCK.--This indicates a pending journey or the arrival of a
traveller.

POST.--This signifies a formidable obstacle; if broken, that you will
encounter a storm of opposition to your plan.

POSTMAN.--Important and profitable news.

POT.--See COFFEE POT.

POTATO.--You will have need of patience in your daily life, and will
sometimes be troubled by pecuniary difficulties.

PRANCING LAMB.--This is a symbol of trouble which will have beneficial
results and will lead to contentment and happiness.

PRAWNS.--These bring pleasures, presents and satisfactory arrangements.

PRINCE OF WALES' PLUMES.--This is a symbol of pleasant events, stirring
topics and sometimes of personal honour and distinction.

PUDDING.--See PLUM PUDDING.

PUFFIN.--This bird denotes timidity and a desire for solitude; if
flying, news from abroad.

PULPIT.--A love of talking and a dislike to listening is the meaning of
this symbol.

PUMP.--Your own efforts will bring about a fortunate result.

PUNCH-AND-JUDY.--You will read, or hear, of a sensational case in
married life.

PURSE.--This cautions you against theft, or carelessness that may lead
to losing money.

PYRAMIDS.--These foreshow attainment to honour, fame and wealth.


Q

QUEEN.--A queen upon her throne indicates security, peace, and honour;
sometimes the attainment to a high position through powerful friends.

QUERY.--This shows doubt, indecision; if this sign were seen with a
letter the doubt would be with regard to some correspondence; if with a
journey, uncertainty about it; and so on.

QUILL PEN.--This shows that you may expect, before long, to sign your
maiden name for the last time in a marriage register; with other signs,
a legal document.

QUOITS.--This sign indicates a journey to the country on pleasure.


R

RABBIT.--An indication of illness for a child; a dead rabbit means
domestic duties which will bore you, sometimes financial worry; several
rabbits suggest that you must depend upon your own efforts for your
amusements and must be content with simple ones; a rabbit on its hind
legs predicts that a new plan or idea will bring you great success.

RAG DOLL.--This implies a simplicity that sometimes verges on folly.

RAILWAY SIGNAL.--This symbol may be seen at "danger" or "all clear." Its
meaning must be read in accordance with other signs.

RAM.--An unpleasant person whom you would do well to avoid is indicated
by this sign.

RAKE.--This implement denotes a persevering nature which should bring
you a liberal measure of success in whatever you undertake; it also
indicates luck in speculation.

RAT.--Treachery and other impending troubles, are foreshown by this
unpleasant symbol.

RAVEN.--This bird is an omen of gloom and despondency, disappointment in
love, separation, failure in work; it is also a symbol of death for the
aged.

RAZOR.--Quarrels, also a warning against interference in other people's
affairs; to lovers this sign foretells disagreement and separation.

RED-HOT POKER.--This flower suggests that you are likely to bring
yourself within the range of unpleasant criticism by your flaunting
manner.

REPTILE.--This is a bad omen of coming misfortune, treachery, or
illness.

RHINOCEROS.--This animal denotes a risky proceeding into which you
plunge without hesitation, although your friends and relations will try
to persuade you to give up your scheme, but your indifference to the
opinion of others prevents any chance of their being successful.

RIDER.--This brings good news from overseas of business and financial
affairs.

RIFLE.--Strife and calamity are shown by this sign.

RING.--With dots around, a contract or a business transaction; with the
figures of a man and woman, an engagement or wedding is foretold.

RIVER.--A sign of trouble and perplexity, sometimes illness and
bereavement.

ROBIN.--A symbol of much good fortune, loyal friends, and happiness in
love.

ROCKET.--This foretells joy and gladness at some event about to happen.

ROCKING CHAIR.--This indicates contemplation of a new idea or scheme
about which you are somewhat doubtful.

ROCKING HORSE.--Happy associations will be renewed; pleasure with
children.

ROCKS.--These prepare you for alarms and agitation, but if good signs
appear, you will eventually find a smooth path through your fife.

ROLLER.--See GARDEN ROLLER.

ROLLING PIN.--This is an indication that you will be capable of
smoothing out your difficulties and will usually find an easy path in
which to tread.

ROSE.--A token of good fortune, joy, and love.

ROSEMARY.--Memories of the past will mar your future.

RUNNING FIGURES.--You may expect an emergency in which you will need to
have all your wits about you; sometimes this signifies urgent messages.


S

SACK.--This predicts an unlooked for event which will turn out to be
most fortunate.

SADDLE.--The successful solving of a troublesome matter is the meaning
of this sign.

SAILOR.--You may expect news from overseas of an interesting nature.

SALMON JUMPING IN A POOL.--This is a fortunate sign of propitious news
which will mean a great deal to you.

SANDWICH MAN.--After a time of irksome tasks and pecuniary worry, you
will be rewarded by a time of ease and wealth.

SAUCEPAN.--This is an indication that many troubles will befall you, and
your courage will be tested in meeting them.

SAUSAGES.--These show complaints or affliction.

SAW.--Interference which will bring a good deal of trouble upon you, is
signified by a saw.

SCAFFOLD.--This signifies that you will enter into a rash speculation.

SCALES.--This symbol stands for legal proceedings.

SCARECROW.--This warns you to avoid interfering in the private affairs
of others, or you may find that you will receive the cold shoulder from
them.

SCEPTRE.--This is a fortunate sign of distinction and honour.

SCIMITAR.--You will hear of murders, horrible treachery, and riots.

SCISSORS.--An unlucky sign of friction between friends; disputing and
disagreeableness with married couples; quarrels between lovers; trouble
in business.

SCOOP.--See COAL SCOOP.

SCREW.--With a little ingenuity and perseverance, you will arrive at
that for which you aim.

SCREW-SPANNER.--Troublesome affairs and vexations are before you.

SCUTTLE.--See COAL SCUTTLE.

SCYTHE.--This sign foreshows grief and pain.

SEAGULL.--A sign of storms; if flying, news from abroad.

SEAKALE.--A satisfactory conclusion to a vexed question is the meaning
of this symbol.

SEAL.--An indication that a considerable amount of patience will be
necessary before your hopes are realised, but eventually you will gain
success and wealth.

SEALING-WAX.--Theoretically you are wise, but you seldom bring your
wisdom to bear on practical matters.

SEE-SAW.--Unless you endeavour to become more decisive and reliable, you
will lose any good opportunities which may come your way.

SEAWEED.--This denotes a joy in the past of which only the memory
remains.

SHAMROCK.--A sign of good luck.

SHARK.--An ominous sign of death.

SHAVING-BRUSH.--This sign suggests that you are apt to turn molehills
into mountains.

SHEEP.--To landowners or those engaged in any agricultural pursuits
sheep are an omen of success and prosperous dealing; to others this sign
implies that they will receive assistance from unexpected quarters.

SHELL.--Good luck from an unexpected source; with other signs, a visit
to the seaside.

SHEPHERD.--The appearance of this symbol warns you against taking
unnecessary risks in all matters.

SHIP.--News from distant lands; a successful journey; a voyage.

SHIRT.--This sign is considered an omen of good fortune.

SHOES.--These indicate speedy new arrangements which are likely to turn
out extremely well.

SHRIMPING NET.--Pleasures and amusements, unconventionality, and good
spirits.

SHUTTERS.--This sign proclaims the fact that there is need for secrecy,
and that there may be things in your life of which you trust nothing
will be known.

SICKLE.--A sign that you will experience sorrow and pain through the
callous behaviour of someone you love.

SIGNPOST.--This symbol must be read in conjunction with surrounding
symbols; it usually emphasises the importance of other signs; a broken
signpost indicates, that you take a wrong turning in your life and
afterwards have much cause to regret it.

SKELETON.--This implies a feeling of disgust at some information which
is told to you and which you are asked not to reveal.

SKIPPING ROPE.--Pleasure with children and popularity with them.

SLEIGH.--A spell of cold weather; an interesting event or piece of news
to be expected in the winter.

SLUG.--Petty annoyances; bad weather.

SNAIL.--This is a sign of infidelity; several snails, that mischief is
going on around you of which you are unaware.

SNAKE.--This is an unpleasant sign of treachery, disloyalty, and hidden
danger, sometimes caused by those whom you least suspect; if its head is
raised, injury by the malice of a man is predicted; it is also an
indication of misfortune and illness.

SNIPE.--This bird signifies the discovery of a useful fact; if flying,
hasty news of a great friend.

SNOWDROPS.--These are a symbol of youth and innocence; this sign may
point to some event affecting you and yours which will probably take
place about February; if seen in a cross it would foreshow the death of
an infant or young child.

SOAP.--Cakes or blocks of soap predict temporary trouble in business.

SOAP BUBBLES.--See CHILD BLOWING SOAP BUBBLES.

SOFA.--This foreshows indisposition or a small illness, sometimes
disturbed nights or emergencies.

SOLDIER.--This signifies that you may count upon the loyalty and
affection of your friends; sometimes it indicates that you may expect
speedy news of a soldier.

SOLOMON'S SEAL.--This plant is a symbol of understanding, devotion, and
coming joy.

SOUP LADLE.--It will be through the assistance of others that you will
arrive at success.

SOUP TUREEN.--To the mature, this symbol points to a return of good
fortune; to the young, a small illness and loss of appetite.

SPADE.--This means toil, care, unrest, disappointment, and failure. See
ACE OF SPADES.

SPANNER.--See SCREW SPANNER.

SPHINX.--This denotes that your hopes will be set on things far beyond
your reach, and that as nothing but the very best in life has any
attraction for you, it is improbable that you will ever attain to
complete happiness.

SPIDER.--You may expect to receive an inheritance; with other signs,
that you will be triumphant in disputed will or money settlement;
several spiders foretell profitable transactions, sometimes a heritage
of much wealth.

SPUR.--This symbol foretells that as the result of endurance and honest
labour you will attain to honour.

SQUARE.--This formed of dotted lines indicates perplexity and dismay,
and endeavour to extricate yourself from an embarrassing situation.

SQUIRREL.--This is a sign of contentment and cheerfulness; although you
may never be rich you will be loved by those around you and, on the
whole, will lead a happy life.

STAR.--A lucky sign; if surrounded by dots, wealth and honour are
foretold.

STEAMER.--A voyage, news from overseas, interesting events, according to
other signs.

STEEPLE.--This denotes misfortune, bad luck; if it is crooked or bending
it foreshows a coming disaster or crushing blow to your hope.

STEPS.--Unaccustomed work which will fall to your lot as a result of the
illness of someone with whom you work or associate.

STILE.--With a small amount of perception you will arrive at a right
conclusion.

STILTS.--These show a desire to appear different in the eyes of your
friends from that which you really are, and you will often fail in an
effort to keep up this subterfuge.

STOCKS.--These sweet scented flowers foreshow an unexpected happiness
with someone whom you have not seen for a long while.

STOCKINGS.--A present received or given is the meaning of this symbol.

STONES.--Little worries and vexations.

STOOL.--A large stool is a symbol of honour; a small one signifies that
your success in life will be meagre.

STORK.--In summer, this bird tells you to beware of robbery or fraud; in
winter, prepare for bad weather and a great misfortune; a stork flying
predicts that whilst you hesitate in coming to a decision, a profitable
chance is lost, the news of which will speedily reach you.

STOVE.--This symbol calls attention to the fact that trials and
tribulations await you.

STRAW.--A bundle of straw foretells gain through industry.

STRAWBERRIES.--Pleasure and the gratification of your wishes are shown
by this fruit.

STRAW HAT.--Modesty and simple pleasures.

STREET LAMP.--This is a sign of a foolish desire to draw attention to
yourself.

STUD.--See COLLAR STUD.

STUFFED BIRDS.--A discovery that something upon which you had set your
heart proves unsatisfying.

SUBMARINE.--Swiftly arriving news or events; sometimes the disclosure of
a secret which will be of much personal value to you.

SUN.--This promises happiness, health, success in love, prosperity, and
the beneficial discovery of secrets.

SUN BONNET.--A sign of originality, personal charm and attraction,
sometimes coquetry.

SUNDIAL.--You are warned to take heed as to the way in which you spend
your time.

SUNFLOWER.--This flower proclaims learning and a satisfactory conclusion
in matters which are most interesting to you; it also implies that you
may reasonably expect a scheme to work out greatly to your advantage.

SUSPENDERS.--These show precaution.

SUSPENSION BRIDGE.--A venture in which much is at stake but after a time
of anxiety you arrive at final triumph.

SWALLOW.--A journey with a happy result; if flying, joyful tidings from
someone you love; if several swallows are flying, they indicate a
journey to a warm climate under ve

[splodge0]

SWAN.--This bird is significant of tribulation, troublesome conditions
in the home, and sometimes of separation from those whom you love.

SWEEP.--The performing of an urgent disagreeable business will shortly
fall to your lot.

SWEET WILLIAM.--This flower signifies that happiness in the past has
tinged your future with sadness.

SWIMMING.--A brave endeavour to overcome your fear of an undertaking
which must be faced.

SWING-BOAT.--By an act of folly, you forfeit the good opinion of someone
with whom you most desire to be on terms of friendship.

SWORD.--This is a sign of danger, sudden illness, or even death; it also
betokens slander and dangerous gossip; to lovers it is a bad omen of
quarrels; a sword in its sheath shows honour and glory for someone dear
to you; a broken sword predicts the triumph of an enemy.


T

TABLE.--This means suggestions and consultation; note the subject from
the surrounding signs.

TAMBOURINE.--A symbol of lighthearted gaiety which will follow a time of
gloom or worry. See also CHILD WITH TAMBOURINE.

TEA COSY.--To the unmarried, this is a sign that they will probably
remain single; to the married, affection and comfort in the small things
of life.

TEA-CUP AND SAUCER.--You may expect to hear something of much interest
and pleasure in your "fortune."

TEETH.--These call attention to the fact that probably a visit to the
dentist is required.

TELEGRAPH POST.--Hasty news by telephone or telegram.

TELEGRAPH WIRES.--You will transact important business by telephone or
telegram.

TELEPHONE.--You will be put to considerable inconvenience through
forgetfulness.

TELESCOPE.--This predicts the probability of trouble with your eyesight.

TENNIS NET.--This shows pleasures and social entertainments.

TENT.--A symbol of travel.

THIMBLE.--For a girl, this symbol implies that she will probably never
marry; to the married, it predicts changes in the household.

THISTLE.--This is a pleasant sign of strength, endurance, and affection;
it also shows a desire to remove obstacles from the path of those who
are in difficulties.

THRONE.--An empty throne denotes public misfortune. See also KING ON
THRONE.

THUMB.--A large and powerful thumb foretells an opportunity in which you
prove yourself superior to those who hitherto somewhat despised you.

TIGER.--You will be placed in a perilous position possibly through the
bad behaviour or folly of those who should protect you.

TIMBER.--Logs of timber are a sign of well-being and prosperity in your
affairs.

TIN TACKS.--An agreement about to be satisfactorily concluded.

TOAD.--You may expect deceit and the discovery of disagreeable facts;
this sign should caution you to be on your guard, for malicious talking
causes much discomfort and may separate the best of friends.

TOADSTOOL.--You are warned against making rash and unguarded statements,
a bad habit of gossiping and encouraging scandal.

TOM-TOM.--See NATIVE WITH TOM-TOM.

TOMATOES GROWING.--An increase of worldly goods is foreshown by this
sign.

TOMBSTONE.--This sign must be judged in accordance with other symbols
around it.

TONGS.--A pair of firetongs indicates anxiety and disturbance in the
home.

TONGUE.--This signifies that unless you amend you will make mischief by
your indiscreet and unkind words.

TOOTH.--One large tooth is a symbol of bereavement.

TOPIARY WORK.--Trees and hedges cut into the forms of birds, animals,
etc., are often to be seen in the tea-leaves; this sign assures you of
the fact that those things for which you must wait longest are those
which will give most joy.

TORCH (FLAMING).--This is a hopeful symbol that some unexpected piece of
good fortune will come to you; it also indicates the discovery of an
undeveloped talent.

TORPEDO.--Acts of violence, disaster, or distressing news are the
meanings of this symbol.

TORTOISE.--This means that you attempt that of which you have no
knowledge.

TOWER.--This predicts an advantageous opportunity through which you may
rise to a good position in life.

TOYS.--Pleasure with children.

TRAIN.--Arrivals, removals, a journey.

TRAM.--A roadway journey on business or pleasure.

TRAM LINE.--This is indicated by two thin, straight lines which run near
together up the side of the cup.

TREES.--Good health and a pleasing assurance of coming prosperity and
happiness; if surrounded by dots an inheritance of property in the
country is foreshown! See also CHESTNUT TREE, CHRISTMAS TREE, ELM TREE,
OAK TREE, YEW TREE.

TRIANGLE.--A fortunate meeting, good luck; sometimes an unexpected
legacy.

TRIDENT.--A hopeful sign of honour and promotion to those in the Navy.

TRIUMPHAL ARCH.--This is a fortunate omen of your future honour and high
position; a decorated arch foretells a wedding.

TROWEL.--This gardening implement foretells good weather conditions;
seen in the winter, it indicates unusual mildness. See also BRICKLAYER'S
TROWEL.

TROUSERS.--A pair of trousers foretells news of misfortune or sorrow for
a man.

TRUE LOVER'S KNOT.--This is a happy omen of faithfulness in love, and of
enduring friendship.

TRUMPET.--This denotes good fortune to a musician; to others,
entertainment, large assemblies of people, public speaking, sometimes
the setting on foot of new schemes.

TRUNK.--Arrivals and departures.

TUB.--You have evil to fear, is the meaning of this sign.

TULIPS.--A symbol of radiance, health, and constancy in love and
friendship.

TUNNEL.--This suggests that you are likely to make a wrong decision in
an important matter.

TURKEY.--That you are in danger of committing injurious follies is the
meaning of this sign.

TURNIP.--The discovery of secrets and domestic quarrels are indicated by
this sign.

TURNPIKE.--This implies that the reminiscences which you relate of the
past are of more interest than your topics of the present.

TURNSTILE.--This is a sign that you cleverly evade a disagreeable
incident or unpleasant discussion without offending anyone.

TURTLE.--This is significant of wealth and luxury.

TWINS.--This is a symbol of sympathy and the perfection of happiness;
with other signs, news of the birth of twins.


U

UGLY FACES.--These show domestic quarrels or unpleasant news.

UMBRELLA.--If it is open, bad weather and grumbling are foretold;
closed, a bit of bad luck which may be avoided.

UNICORN.--This is an indication of scandal.

URN.--A sign of illness.


V

VAMPIRE.--This brings a message of gloom and sorrow, or also means that
you await the expected news of a death.

VAN.--This sign denotes an interesting experiment in which you succeed.

VANITY BAG.--A large circle of admiring friends, and much pleasure with
them.

VASE.--This sign brings you a promise of good health.

VEGETABLE MARROW.--This means sad news or monetary losses through bad
crops, either at home or abroad.

VEGETABLES.--These indicate toil, followed by a time of leisure and
affluent circumstances.

VENUS.--This planet which is sometimes seen in the tea-leaves, brings a
message of peace or placidity.

VISE.--A carpenter's vise signifies that you will need powerful
assistance to extricate you from the mess in which you will find
yourself through your folly.

VIOLETS.--This is a symbol of high ideals and of the finding of
happiness in its fullest sense; several violets assure you of coming
joy; if in the form of a cross, death is predicted.

VIOLIN.--A symbol of coming success to a musician, and of pleasure and
entertainment to others.

VULTURE.--This bird is a forewarning of evil and unrest in various
quarters of the globe; it also means a powerful enemy, sometimes death;
if it flies, tragedy, sorrow, and tears are predicted.


W

WADING BOOT.--This is a warning to be cautious in swimming or boating,
or you may meet with an accident; with other signs it denotes a home by
the sea.

WAGGON.--This implies a fortunate outlook and changes for the better.

WALKING STICK.--The arrival of a male visitor.

WALL.--A thick, high wall denotes many difficulties in your life, and
that much courage will be needed to overcome them.

WALLFLOWER.--This sign indicates the serious consideration of a new
plan.

WARMING PAN.--This is a sign of comfort in small things and domestic
peace.

WASPS.--These insects are significant of distress caused by the sharp
tongues of those around you.

WATER.--This is usually recognised by a clear space entirely free from
tea-leaves at the bottom of the cup.

WATER LILY.--This flower proclaims a declaration of love.

WEASEL.--This animal shows cunning, and points to the sly behaviour of
someone with whom you associate, and of whom you feel no suspicion.

WEATHERCOCK.--This is a sign that you feel incapable of making up your
mind definitely on any matter without first consulting each one with
whom you come in contact, and in the end you settle upon an entirely
different course of action.

WEDDING CAKE.--This proclaims a speedy and prosperous marriage.

WHALE.--A prediction of personal danger which may be averted if you are
cautious.

WHEEL.--This is symbolic of the wheel of fortune and foreshows a
prosperous career or an inheritance of wealth; a broken wheel predicts a
bad disappointment as to an expected increase of income or a legacy.

WHEELBARROW.--This sign foretells a visit to the country or a pleasant
renewal of friendship with those who live in it.

WHIP.--To a woman this sign foretells vexation and trials in her
marriage; for a man, it has much the same meaning, and severe
disappointment will befall him.

WICKET GATE.--A small incident leads up to an important future event.

WIDOW'S BONNET.--This sign must be read in connection with other
symbols; sometimes it foreshows grief and mourning, or if dots are round
it, that a sum of money or a legacy may be expected from a widow.

WINDMILL.--A sign that you may hope to succeed in a doubtful enterprise.

WINDOW.--An open window shows that you are regarded with favour by many;
a closed one means embarrassment.

WINE CUP.--Joy and realised ambition.

WITCH ON BROOM.--You will be reproved by some of your friends who
consider that your interest in psychic matters is dangerous, but later
on you will be able to prove to their satisfaction that no harm has come
to it.

WITNESS BOX.--With bad signs around it, this would point to a personal
matter ending in a law court; otherwise, it denotes the taking place of
a trial in which you will feel special interest.

WOLF.--Beware of an avaricious and hard-hearted neighbour or friend.

WOMAN CARRYING A BURDEN.--An unhappy marriage or unfortunate love
affair.

WOMAN CARRYING A CHILD.--This shows distress, sometimes illness of
someone dear to you, or sadness through separation.

WOMAN HOLDING A MIRROR.--Clairvoyance and prediction of the future are
signified by this symbol.

WOMEN.--With bad signs, several women mean scandal; otherwise, society.

WOOD.--Much happiness with someone dear to you, a forthcoming wedding,
or a fortunate and favourable event.

WOODPECKER.--This bird brings pleasant news from those who live in the
country.

WORMS.--These warn you of coming misfortune, or of treachery, and evil
by secret foes.

WREATH.--This is a symbol of marriage, and of much happiness being in
store for you.


Y

YACHT.--This is a favourable sign of increased wealth or happiness.

YEW TREE.--You may expect to attain to a prominent position in life, and
to receive a legacy from an aged relative or friend.


Z

ZEBRA.--Something for which you have long waited is now within sight,
but you are likely to be disappointed, for you will find that it was not
worth waiting for after all.

[splodge0]

Want the rest???????????

:colour:

[Mairi]

I can't wait, Splodge0 :laugh::laugh::laugh:

http://www.handykult.de/plaudersmilies.de/happy/coffee.gif

[Boris]

One gets to the point of not knowing whether to continue or go back to the begining:shocked:



AND can I just point out that still no one has told me HOW to prdict the

Lottery Numbers

for Wednesday!!!!!

(or have I missed the point again ...HHmmmm):wavey:

[Romantic Old Bird]

Splodge you have finally lost your all too fragile grasp of reality.

Seek help now!:spin2:

[splodge0]

Or this.......... LOL

What is Sustainable Transport?
Chuan-Zhong Li
Department of Economics, University of Dalarna
S-781 88 Borlänge, Sweden
March 1, 2000
Abstract
In recent years there has been increasing interests in transport and
sustainability studies. However, there has been no formal definition on
the concept of sustainable transport. In this paper, we attempt to formalize
the concept in a framework of dynamic welfare analysis. Using
a control-theoretic model, we characterize a sustainable transport as the
development of the transport sector that can support a maximum sustainable
social welfare measured by an augmented net national product
with environmental values taken into account. Dynamic interactions between
transport, production, consumption and technological changes are
also discussed.
1 Introduction
Sustainable development has become a popular catchphrase nowadays. In the
well-known Bruntland Commission Report, sustainable development was defined
to be ”a development that meets the needs of the present generation without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”. However,
1
the concept of needs is a rather complex one in economics and to embed it in the
issue of sustainability seems to make the already complex definition even more
intractable. Accordingly, economists have attempted to narrow the definition
of sustainable development to refer to an economy in which future growth is not
compromised by that of the present (Goldin andWinters, 1994). This is evidenced
by two emerging branches of research on the subject. One is to extend the wellknown
Weitzman (1976) theory on welfare significance of net national product by
taking into account natural and environmental resources (Mäler, 1991; Aronsson
et. al., 1997; Weitzman and Löfgren, 1997). The other is to adapt optimal
growth models with hyperbolic discounting so as to achieve a maximum long-run
sustainable welfare (Chichilnisky, 1996, 1997; Heal, 1998; and Li and Löfgren,
2000).
In addition to the general concept of sustainable development, researchers and
policy makers have in recent years also concerned about its ramifications in various
production sectors and geographical areas. There have been concerns about,
for example, sustainable agriculture, sustainable forestry, sustainable cities, sustainable
coast, sustainable environment, and sustainable transport. While these
concepts seem to be widely accepted, their precise contents have remained rather
elusive. For instance, what is sustainable transport? The transport sector has
been one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gases which may lead to dramatic
climatic changes in the future. It is also known that other pollutants from transport
damage the natural environment which is our life-support system. With
increasing demand for consumption, transport services and environmental quality,
it is natural that sustainability related to transport has come to the top list of
policy agenda. However, to the best of our knowledge, there has been no formal
models for the concept of sustainable transport.
In this paper, we attempt to formalize the concept of sustainable transport
in a framework of dynamic welfare analysis. Using the control-theoretical model
developed by Weitzman (1976) and extended by Aronsson et. al. (1997), we
2
will highlight the transport sector by explicitly taking into account transport infrastructure,
transport means, energy supply, and environmental quality in our
model. It is shown that in a broad sense, sustainable transport cannot be separately
defined irrespective of the rest of the economy as transport is an integral
part of the whole system. At best, the concept of sustainable transport can be
defined as a development of the transport sector that is supported by production
and energy sectors on the one hand and that supports a maximum sustainable
social welfare on the other hand. In a narrow sense, one may conceptualize sustainable
transport as an adaptation of transport services that can satisfy some
other goals such as environmental objectives. However, a sustainable transport
defined as such may not support any overall sustainability or maximum social welfare.
We also extend our analysis with technological progresses of fuel efficiency
and non-stationary time preferences with a hyperbolic discounting criterion.
The remaining part of the paper is structured as the following. In section 2,
we develop the dynamic model with a highlighted transport sector and outline the
optimal solutions, and in section 3 we perform sustainability and welfare analysis
with special reference to sustainable transport. Section 4 extends the analysis
with technical progresses and the hyperbolic discounting criterion, and section 5
sums up the findings in this study.
2 The model
To make the problem analytically tractable, we consider that the economy consists
of only four sectors, a transport sector, an energy sector, an environmental
sector, and a production sector. It is assumed that transport services q can be
produced using transport means (vehicles) m, energy (fuel) h, and emissions of
pollutant e as inputs for a given infrastructure z, i.e. q = q(m, h, e, z). Further,
we differentiate transport services to households and firms by q1 = q(m1, h1, e1, z),
and q2 = q(m2, h2, e2, z), respectively, where m = m1 + m2, h = h1 + h2, and
3
e = e1 + e2. The production sector is assumed to produce all other goods and
services y with a neoclassical production function1 y = f(k, q2) with respect to
capital stock k and transport service q2. Let c(t), i(t) and δk(t) denote, respectively,
consumption, investment in infrastructure and capital depreciation rate at
any time t. Then the dynamics of the capital stock can be described by
˙k
= f(k(t), q2(t)) − δkk(t) − c(t) − m(t) − i(t) (1)
with initial stock k(0) = k0. Let z(t) represent the transport infrastructure at
time t, which depreciates at a rate δz. Then, its dynamics can be described by
˙ z = g(i(t)) − δzz(t) (2)
where g(i) is a infrastructure production function with respect to investment
i. Environmental quality at time t, E(t), is negatively related to the stock of
pollution p(t), which evolves as
˙ p = e(t) − δpp(t) (3)
where e(t) is the flow of emission at time t and δp is the assimilative rate of the
natural environment. To simplify matters, we may think that E(t) = ¯p − p(t)
with ¯p as the ”largest” stock of pollutants so that dE/dp = −1. Energy flow at
time t, h(t), is extracted from an exhaustible resource with stock x(t) ≥ 0 so that
˙ x = −h(t) (4)
Note that we have for notational ease not introduced any extraction cost or oil
refinery processes as these were not of out essential concern in this paper.
Without loss of generality, we normalize the population to unity and thus simply
consider a representative household that derives utility u from consumption c,
1Note that we omitt the emission input from the production function here in order to
highlight the transport ptoblem. The essential results on welfare analysis will not be altered
by this simplification.
4
transport service q1, and environmental quality E such that u = u(c, q1, E). It is
assumed that utility increases with all three arguments but at a decreasing rate.
As E is negatively related to p, with E(t) = ¯p − p(t), it is obvious that utility
decreases with pollution stock p. Then, we may rewrite the utility function as
u = u(c, p, q1) with ∂u/∂p ≤ 0. For a given rate of time preference r, we can now
formulate the society’s optimization problem (the time argument t is suppressed
for national convenience) as to maximize
U = Z ∞
0
u (c, p, q1) exp(−rt)dt (5)
with respect to the control variables c,i,m1,m2,h1,h2,e1,e2, and the state variables
k,z,p,x, subject to the dynamics equations (1) to (4). To facilitate the analysis, we
define three new variables 0 ≤ α, β, γ ≤ 1 such that m1 = αm, m2 = (1 − α)m,
h1 = βh, h2 = (1− β) h, e1 = γe, and e2 = (1− γ) e. By so doing, we can
maximize the objective functional (5) with respect to the control variables c, i,
m, α, h, β, e and γ. The current-value Hamiltonian then becomes
H = u (c, p, q1) + λk [f (k, q2) − δkk − c − m − i]
+λz (g(i) − δzz) + λp (e − δpp) − λxh (6)
where λk, λz, λp, λx are the co-state variables associated with capital stock,
transport infrastructure, pollution stock and energy resource, respectively. Following
the standard procedure, we derive the first-order optimality conditions
with respect to the control variables as
uc − λk = 0 (∂H/∂c = 0)
−λk + λzg0(i) = 0 (∂H/∂i = 0)
αuq∂q1/∂m1 + (1 − α) λkfq∂q2/∂m2 − λk = 0 (∂H/∂m = 0)
uq∂q1/∂m1 − λkfq∂q2/∂m2 = 0 (∂H/∂α = 0)
βuq∂q1/∂h1 + (1 − β) λkfq∂q2/∂h2 − λx = 0 (∂H/∂h = 0) (7)
uq∂q1/∂h1 − βλkfq∂q2/∂h2 = 0 (∂H/∂β = 0)
5
γuq∂q1/∂e1 + (1 − γ) λkfq∂q2/∂e2 + λp = 0 (∂H/∂e = 0)
uq∂q1/∂e1 − βλkfq∂q2/∂e2 = 0 (∂H/∂γ = 0)
The first two equations in (7) have the usual interpretations that the shadow
price of capital equals both to the marginal utility of consumption and to the
marginal value of investment in transport infrastructure. For the third one, while
the first term on the left-hand-side measures marginal contribution to household
utility of a unit input in transport means, the second term reflects that to firm
productions, and the sum of them equals marginal cost of providing a unit infrastructure.
The forth equation determines the optimal share of transport means
used in household and production sectors at which their marginal values are
equalized. Similarly, the rest of the four equations in (7) determine the optimal
levels of energy input and emissions, as well as their shares in the house household
and production sectors. Euler equations for the co-state variables are
˙λ
k = λk (r + δk − fk)
˙λ
z = λz (r + δz) − (uq∂q1/∂z + λk∂q2/∂z)
˙λ
p = λp (r + δp) − up (8)
˙λ
x = rλx + ν
which together with the dynamic system equations (1) to (4), the equation system
in (7) and the conventional transversality conditions constitute a complete set
of neccesarry optimality conditions. Under certain regularity conditions on the
utility and production functional forms, it can be proved that there exists an
optimal solution path for all the control, state and co-state variables c∗(t), m∗(t),
i∗(t), i∗(t), i∗(t), α∗(t), β∗(t), γ∗(t), k∗(t), z∗(t), p∗(t), x∗(t), λ∗k(t),λ∗z
(t), λ∗p(t)
and λ∗x(t), for all t ≥ 0.
6
3 Sustainability and welfare analysis
In his seminal paper on Quarterly Journal of Economics,Weitzman (1976) showed
that the current-value Hamiltonian at ant time t corresponds to a constancy
equivalent measure of themaximumsustainable future utilities in a dynamic economy.
On the one hand, the Hamiltonian measures the national income (though
in utility terms) being the value of all consumptions and investments, and on the
other hand, it reflects the interest on an aggregated ”social capital” being the
discounted present value of all future utilities. Thus, if this Hamiltonian can be
made constant over time, then the ”social capital” would be kept intact while the
interest on it would support a constant stream of welfare over time. The model
in this famous paper has been later extended in several directions for green accounting
with natural resources and environmental externalities (Aronsson et.
al., 1997; Mäler, 1992).
In this paper, we attempt to formalize the concept of sustainable transport
by taking advantage of the analytical tools developed by Weitzman (1976). The
upshot is to study the current-value Hamiltonian function, its components and
their trends over time. The exercise to totally differentiate the Hamiltonian function
(6) with respect to time is straightforward but rather tedious. Fortunately,
by help of the first-order conditions in (7) and (8), we can simplify the resulting
expression as
dH(t)
dt
= r hλk(t) ˙k
+ λz(t) ˙ z + λp(t) ˙ p + λx(t) ˙ xi (9)
that is the interest on the aggregated value of ”investment” in all types of
capitals, the production capital, transport infrastructure, pollution and energy
stocks. The shadow values of λz(t), λp(t), and λx(t), for instance, can be derived
from (8) as
λz(t) = Z ∞
t Ãuq
∂q1
∂z
+ λkfq
∂q2
∂z !exp (−(r + δz) (s − t)) ds
λp(t) = Z ∞
t
up exp (−(r + δp) (s − t)) ds (10)
7
λx(t) = Z ∞
t
ν exp (−r (s − t)) ds
It is seen that the shadow value of an extra unit of transport infrastructure
is simply the present value of its overall contribution to household utility and
firm production in the future, discounted with an effective rate being the sum of
the rate of time preference and that of the infrastructure depreciation. Similarly,
the shadow prices of pollution and energy stocks are their presents values of
marginal pollution damages and use costs of the energy resource, discounted at
their appropriate rates.
Using the Hamiltonian function in (6), we can rewrite (9) as
dH(t)
dt
= r [H(t) − u (c, p, q1)] (11)
that has the well-known Bernoulli equation form. The solution of this differential
equation is simply
H(t) = r Z ∞
t
u (c, p, q1) exp(−r (s − t)) dt (12)
that can be interpreted as the static equivalent of the maximum sustainable future
welfare. To verify this, we denote the hypothetical constant welfare over time by
¯H
and then equate the present value of this stream to that of the stream of
optimal solution u (c∗(t), p∗(t), q1∗(t)), i.e.
Z ∞
t
¯H
exp (−r (s − t)) dt = Z ∞
t
u (c, p, q1) exp(−r (s − t)) dt (13)
then, it is straightforward to shown that ¯H
= H(t) as defined in (12). Thus, we
have
Proposition 1 Given the model setup from (1) to (5), the current-value Hamiltonian
is a static equivalent of the maximum sustainable future welfare along the
optimal path, which equals the interest on the present value of the whole stream
of future utilities.
8
If we define the present value of future utilities as a ”super capital”, then
the static equivalent of future maximum welfare would remain constant over
time if this super capital is kept constant. A development path as such may
be regarded as sustainable according to the weak sustainability criterion. From
(9), it can be seen that this would also imply a zero value of the aggregated
”investment” in all types of capitals - the productive capital k, infrastructure z,
pollution p and energy stock x over the development path. It is worth mentioning
that there is no requirement for each type of capital to remain intact as the
value decrease in one type of capital may be compensated by value decreases
of other capital types. The main thing is that the sum of investment values
in all capital types remain non-decreasing over time. For example, if the value
of a transport infrastructure investment can sufficiently compensate a loss in
environmental value caused by production activities, the development path may
also be claimed to be sustainable, provided that they are appropriately priced
according to (10). Similarly, if the decrease in the exhaustible energy stock can be
compensated by increases in the value of other capital types including renewable
energy, then we may also claim that the development follows a sustainable path
(Hartwick 1977, 1996; Dixit and Hoel, 1980; and Solow 1986, 1992). Loosely
speaking, in a word with continuous changes, it may not be neccesarry to sustain
the size of each type of capital, say, trees, minerals, fishes, and railroad, but to
sustain the aggregated value of them.
From (4) and (12), we obtain
H(t) = u (c, p, q1) + λk(t) ˙k
+ λz(t) ˙ z + λp(t) ˙ p + λx(t) ˙ x
= r Z ∞
t
u (c, p, q1) exp(−r (s − t)) dt (14)
i.e. the sum of instantaneous consumption and investment values along the optimal
growth path equal the interest on the present value future utilities. We
are now interested in how the concept of sustainable transport enters the whole
picture. The question is whether it is possible to break the Hamiltonian into
9
components on sector levels or at least to separate a transport-sector specific
sub-Hamiltonian function ˜H
(t) from the rest of the economy in the sense that
˜H
(t) = r Z ∞
t
u(q(s)) exp (−r (s − t)) dt (15)
where u(q(s)) denotes the utility of transport services at time s. If this were
true, then we would define sustainable transport as a development that ensures
the sub-Hamiltonian in (15) non-decreasing over time, i.e. d ˜H
(s)/ds ≥ 0 for
all s ≥ t. However, this is in general not the case since transport is always an
integral part of the whole system. First, transport services directly enter the
utility function, which may not be separable from consumption of other goods
and services including environmental quality. Second, the value of net changes in
the different types of capital on the right-hand-side of the first equation in (14)
depends on their shadow prices which hinges upon future interactions between
transport, energy, production and the environment. Even if we impose separability
conditions on the utility and production functional forms, it would be hardly
possible to decompose the overall Hamiltonian into an exclusive and exhaustive
set of sub-Hamiltonians, one of those, say, is for the transport sector.
Thus, we are inclined to define sustainable transport as an integral part of the
overall sustainable development. Specifically, we consider sustainable transport
as a development of the transport sector that is on the one hand supported by the
rest of the economy and that on the other hand supports a maximum sustainable
welfare over time. More formally, we state:
Proposition 2 A sustainable transport from time t onwards is characterized by a
development of transport services for households and firms, q∗1 [m∗1
(s), h∗1
(s), e∗1
(s), z∗(s)]
and q∗2 [m∗2
(s), h∗2
(s), e∗2 (s), z∗(s)], respectively, such that the overall Hamiltonian
in (12) satisfies dH(s)/ds ≥ 0 for all time s ≥ t.
According to this definition, one has to solve the overall sustainability problem
in order to know how a sustainable transport would look like. Among other
10
things, one has to assess the shadow prices of the different types of capitals
including pollution and energy stocks as shown in (10). This is obviously an
extremely challenging work since such shadow prices depend on the marginal
social damage of pollution and scarcity value of energy etc. in the future.
It is worth mentioning that, in various case studies, sustainable transport was
considered to be some ad hoc adaptation of the transport sector that can satisfy
certain environmental goals within a given period of time (Rothengatter, 1997;
Whitelegg, 1992). Although it is easier to do such an exercise, the adaptation
here provides only a partial picture to overall sustainability. A sustainable transport
defined as such would not ensure any overall optimality or sustainability
conditions. If it would do, then the optimal development path discussed above
would not be optimal, which is a contradictions.
As argued by some cost-benefi analysts, it may be more useful to try to measure
the right things though it is difficult than to accurately measure the wrongs
things. With the definition in proposition 2, the task would be to gather information
to better understand the complex system such as the economic contribution
of transport infrastructure to transport services, the effect of transport services
to households and firms, the relationship between transport and the environment,
energy supply, and the assimilative ability of the environment etc. With better
knowledge on these relations, we will be one step closer to operationalize the
concept of sustainable transport and overall sustainable development discussed
above.
4 An extension with technical progress and hyperbolic
discounting
An important result from the previous analysis is that along the optimal solution
path for the maximization problem (5), welfare is properly measured by the
11
current-value Hamiltonian, and sustainable transport is thereby defined as an endogenous
solution for the transport sector that supports a maximum sustainable
welfare. However, there have been two major omissions concerning technological
progress and time preferences. With a constant technology and fixed energy
stock, it may not be possible to sustain welfare if the exhaustible energy resource
is essential for transport and transport services are essential for the economy. A
simple remedy is to reinterpret the variable m in the transport service function q
as a composite factor input including some renewable energy energy sources, i.e.
a substitute for the exhaustible energy source. In so doing we will still stick to the
sustainability results derived above. Now, we explicitly introduce technological
progress in the model and examine how this will modify the sustainability conditions.
Although, technological progresses can take place in various sectors, here
we simply focus on energy efficiency for illustrative purposes as the qualitative
properties would remain the same with more sectors modified. Let us define the
effective energy use as ˆh(t) = φ(t)h(t) with φ(t) ≥ 0 and φ0(t) ≥ 0. Then, the
production of transport services will be q1 = q(m1, φ(t)h1, e1, z) for households
and q2 = q(m2, φ(t)h2, e2, z) for firms, with which we can use the same procedure
as in the previous sections to derive
dH(t)
dt
= r ³λk(t) ˙k
+ λz(t) ˙ z + λp(t) ˙ p + λx(t) ˙ x´+ λkhfq∂q2/∂h2φ0(t) (16)
and
H(t) + Ω(t) = r Z ∞
t
u (c, p, q1) exp(−r (s − t)) dt (17)
where
Ω(t) = Z ∞
t
λkhfq∂q2/∂h2φ0(t) exp(−r (s − t)) dt (18)
is the present value of marginal product increases due to the technical progress
function φ(t).
With technical progress explicitly introduced in the model, it is now the sum
of the conventional Hamiltonian and the value of the technical progress that measures
welfare. With a prospect of more efficient energy uses, the static equivalent
12
of maximum future sustainable welfare exceeds the current-value Hamiltonian
that is the value of current consumption plus that of investment in all capital
types (Aronsson et. al. 1997; Nordhaus, 1993). Note that the transport sector is
still non-separable from the rest of the economy and thus we still need to define
sustainable transport as an integral part of overall sustainable development.
Proposition 3 With technical progress explicitly introduced in the model, a sustainable
transport from time t onwards is characterized by a development of transport
services for households and firms, q∗1 [m∗1
(s), h∗1
(s), e∗1
(s), z∗(s)] and q∗2[m∗2
(s),
h∗2
(s),e∗2
(s),z∗(s)], respectively, such that the sum of the current-value Hamiltonian
in (12) and the value of technical progresses in (18) does not decrease over
time, i.e. dH(s)/ds + Ω0(s) ≥ 0 for all time s ≥ t.
Finally, we briefly analyze the effect of non-stationary preferences on welfare
measurement and sustainable development. In optimal growth models, it is often
assumed that people have stationary time preferences in that they discount the
future with a constant exponential rate. However, strong empirical evidences
suggest that people discount the future hyperbolically, applying a larger annual
discount rate to near-future returns than returns in the distant future (Ainslie,
1992; Loewenstein and Prelec, 1992; Cropper, Portney and Aydede, 1994; Laibson,
1996). Here we are to examine the implications of such non-stationary
preferences on sustainable development and sustainable transport. Let Λ(t) denote
the discount function with Λ0(t) < 0 and limt→∞ Λ(t) = 0, then the society’s
problem will be to optimize
U = Z ∞
0
Λ(t)u (c, p, q1) dt (19)
subject to the dynamic equations (1) to (4). As the integral of the discount
function over an infinite time horizon may not be bounded, the problem may
need to be solved using a more general optimization criterion (Seierstad and
13
Sydsaeter, 1987). After the usual derivations, we obtain the time trend of the
current-value Hamiltonian as
dH(t)
dt
= r(t) hλk(t) ˙k
+ λz(t) ˙ z + λp(t) ˙ p + λx(t) ˙ xi (20)
where r(t) = −Λ0(t)/Λ(t) is the instantaneous rate of discount at time t, and the
expression for the Hamiltonian itself as
H(t) = R∞t Λ(s)u (c, p, q1) ds
R∞t Λ(s)ds
= ¯r(t) Z ∞
t
Λ(s)
Λ(t)
u (c, p, q1) ds (21)
where ¯r(t) = Λ(t)/ R∞t Λ(s)ds is the long-run rate of discount.
When the exponential discount function is used as a special case with Λ(t) =
exp(−rt), we have r(t) = ¯r(t) = r, i.e. both the short and the long-run rate of
discount equals the constant exponential rate. The Hamiltonian in (21) would
in this case reduce to the conventional expression in (12). Since Λ0(t) < 0 and
limt→∞ Λ(t) = 0, the asymptotic long-run discount rate converges to zero, i.e.
limt→∞ ¯r(t) = 0. Following Radner (1967), the very long-run welfare would be
lim
t→∞
H(t) = lim
t→∞,T→∞
1
T Z t+T
t
u (c, p, q1) ds (22)
i.e. the greatest welfare that can be sustained forever. Such an ideal state may be
termed as the golden-rule (Phelps, 1961) or the green golden rule (Chichilnisky,
1996, 1997).
Proposition 4 Given the hyperbolic discount function Λ(t) with Λ0(t) < 0 and
limt→∞ Λ(t) = 0, a sustainable transport from time t onwards is characterized by a
development of transport services for households and firms, q∗1 [m∗1
(s), h∗1
(s), e∗1
(s), z∗(s)]
and q∗2[m∗2
(s), h∗2
(s), e∗2
(s), z∗(s)], respectively, such that the Hamiltonian expressed
in (21) does not decrease over time, i.e. dH(s)/ds ≥ 0 for all time s ≥ t, and it
eventually converges to the largest possible sustainable welfare defined in (22) as
time goes to infinity.
14
Note that in the long-run, it is the optimal configuration of consumption,
transport services and environmental quality that provides the maximum welfare.
Wether the transport sector at this ideal state is larger or smaller than at other
states would depend on the exact functional forms and parameters in the model.
Following the optimal development path, the economy would eventually converge
to this state at which the overall welfare derived from a combination of goods
and services is maximized.
5 Concluding Remarks
In this paper we have attempted to formalize the concept of sustainable transport
in a control-theoretic framework. This was done by an explicit introduction of
the transport sector in the neoclassical optimal growth model. We first formulate
the Hamiltonian function, which corresponds to an augmented national product
in utility terms, as the sum of instantaneous utility and value of investment in
all types of capital including transport infrastructure, environmental quality, and
exhaustible energy stock. Then, following Weitzman (1976), we show that this
augmented national product along the optimal path is a static equivalent of the
maximum sustainable future welfare. With general sustainability conceptualized
as a non-declining sustainable welfare over time, we have characterized sustainable
transport as a development of the transport sector that is supported by the
rest of the economy and that supports an overall maximum sustainable welfare
over time. Since transport is an integral part of the whole economy, it is not
possible to extract a sub-Hamiltonian for the transport sector from the overall
welfare measure. As a result, we cannot define sustainable transport as a development
which sustains the ”value” of transport corresponding to some kind of
sub-Hamiltonian functions.
We have also extended the optimal growth models with exogenous technological
progress and hyperbolic discounting and examined their implications on
15
sustainable transport. It is shown that with technical progress, it is the sum of
the Hamiltonian (national product) and the value of technical progress that corresponds
to the static equivalent of maximum sustainable future welfare. However,
since the transport sector remains non-separable from the rest of the economy,
the definition of sustainable transport in this case is simply adapted to be a
development of the transport section that sustains the sum of Hamiltonian and
the value of technical progress. With hyperbolic discounting, the dynamic system
from the growth model becomes non-autonomous and therefore the resulting
national-product-like Hamiltonian measure depends explicit on the time variable
t. As time goes to infinity, we show that the long-run steady state welfare
is maximized at what may be called the Phelp’s golden rule or Chichilnisky’s
green golden rule. Sustainable transport is according defined as a development of
the transport sector that sustains the national-product-like Hamiltonian welfare
measure.
References
Ainslie, G.W. (1992), Picoeconomics, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
Aronss on,T., Johansson,P.O. and Löfgren,K. G. (1997), Wel f are Measu rement, Sust ai nabilit y
and Green National Accounting - A Growth Theoretical Approach, Edward
Elgar, Cheltenham, UK.
Ch ichilnis ky, G. (1996), An axiomatic approach to sustainable de velopme nt.
Social Choice and Welfare 13, 231-57.
Chichilnisky,G. (1997), What Is Sustainable Development? Land-Economics
73, 467-91.
Cropper, M. L., Aydede S.K. and Portney P.R. (1994), Preferences for Life Saving
Programs: How the public Discount Time and Age. Journal of Risk and
Uncertainty 8, 243-265.
16
Dixit, A.P. and Hoel, M (1980). On Hartwick’s rule for regular maximum paths
of capital accumulation, Review of Economic Studies 47, 551-556.
Goldin I. and Winters L. A. (1994). Economic policies for sustainable development,
in (Goldin and Winters, eds) The Economics of Sustainable Development,
Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.
Hartwick,J.M., (1977). Intergenerational Equity and the Investing of Rents from
Exhaustible Resources, American Economic Review 67, 972-974.
Hartwick,J.M., (1996). Constant Consumption as Interest on Capital,
Scandinavian Journal of Economics 98, 439-443.
Heal, G.M. (1998), Interpreting Sustainability. In (Chichilnisky, G., Heal, G.M.
and Vercelli, A., eds.) Sustainability: Dynamics and Uncertainty. Kluwer
Academic Publishers.
Laibson, D. (1997), Golden Eggs and Hyperbolic Discounting, Quarterly Journal
of Economics 112, 443-477.
Loewenstein G. and Prelec D. (1992), Anomalies in Intertemporal Choice: Evidence
and an Intepretation. Quarterly Journal of Economics 107, 573-598.
Li, C.Z. and Löfgren, K.G. (2000), Renewable Resources and Economic Sustainability:
A Dynamic Analysis with Heterogeneous Time Preferences.Journal
of Environmental Economics and Management (forthcoming).
Mäler, K.G. (1991). National Accounts and Environmental Resources, Environmental
and Resource Economics 1, 1-15.
Nordhaus, W.D. (1993). Reflections on the concept of sustainable Economic
Growth. Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei Working paper 56.93.
Phelps, E. (1961), Golden rule of economic growth. American Economic Review
51, 638-643.
Radner R., (1967). Efficiency prices for infinite horizon production programmes,
Review of Economic Studies 34, 51-66.
Solow, R.M. (1986). Intergenerational equilty and exhaustible resources, The
Review of Economic Studies, symposium 29-46.
17
Solow, R.M. (1992). An almost practical step towards sustainability. Resources
for the Future Invited Lecture, Washington, DC.
Seierstad A. and Sydsaeter, K. (1987), Optimal control theory with economic
applications, North Holland, New York.
Whitelegg, J. (1992). Transport for a sustainable future. Belhaven Press, London
and New York.
Weitzman, M. L., (1976). On the welfare significance of national product in a
dynamic economy, Quarterly Journal of Economics 90, 156-162 (1976).
Weitzman,M.L. and Löfgren,K.G., (1997). On the Welfare Significance of Green
Accounting as Taught by Parable, Journal of Environmental Economics
and Management 32, 139-153.

:colour:

[Boris]

Good Grief !:laugh: