Chapter VII: The "nelros" Cup (1)

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 symbol.

CHESSMEN.--These announce the fact that you will be troubled by matters which are difficult to adjust to your satisfaction, and you must expect a certain amount of anxiety and worry.

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.