ftp://ftp.mirror.ac.uk/sites/metalab...04/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