Chapter VII: Part 7

DOUBLE-BLANK. To turn this domino is the worst sign in the whole set, and is only favorable to misers, usurers, gamblers, and unprincipled cheats and seducers. To any heartless, selfish person, the turning of this domino foretells good luck—to all others disappointment. We hope that no young girl turning a domino to ascertain her fortune as to marriage will turn this one, for it surely foretells disappointment and sorrow. If she has a lover, and should he marry her, he will desert her afterwards. In business matters, too, it is decidedly unfavorable, and is a sign that your business will decrease. If you are wanting a situation, you will not be likely to get it, and if anything is lost or stolen, it will not probably be recovered again. It is generally a pretty bad domino for decent people—but a good one for all the dishonest ones, who, if they have got anything by trickery and fraud, will be apt to enjoy it.

METHOD OF TELLING FORTUNES WITH DICE.

Take three dice, shake them well in the box with your left hand, and then cast them out on a board or table, on which you have previously drawn a circle with chalk; count the number of spots on the uppermost sides of the dice, and look at the signification of the numbers, as given below. Be careful and do not attempt to tell your fortune on Mondays or Wednesdays, as they are unlucky days for dice. To throw the same number twice at one trial, shows news from abroad, be the numbers what they may. If the dice roll over the circle, the number thrown goes for nothing, but the occurrence shows sharp words, and if they fall to the floor, it is blows; in throwing out the dice, if one remains on top of the other, it is a present of which I leave the ladies to take care.

SIGNIFICATION OF THE SPOTS ON DICE.

THREE. If a young girl throws this number, (three aces,) it foretells that she will have numerous lovers, and if she marries will have a good crop of children, and then become a widow. To a young man it denotes that he will never marry, but will be a great favorite of the ladies, and probably a gay seducer. If a married person throws it, he or she will become a widower or widow, as the case may be.

FOUR. To throw this number denotes frivolity in love matters. Unmarried persons who throw it will have many lovers or sweethearts, and will not be fully satisfied with either. It foretells to a married woman that her husband admires the sex generally quite as much as he does her; but it also denotes that she will have many children, and that both herself and husband will live to raise them.

FIVE. To throw this number of spots of the dice, foretells good luck in a land speculation to any one who is about buying lands. It is a very good number for farmers, prognosticating a fortunate season to come. To lovers it shows that some obstacle will present itself to their marriage, or else that they will quarrel. In a family it is a sign that some person will soon visit there that is not welcome. If you are about to go a journey, and throw this number, you will meet some one who will bother you, or that you dislike, or else some disagreeable accident will happen; but the accident will not be serious.

SIX. If a girl throws this number, (three deuces,) it denotes that she will be of gay disposition and have many lovers, but will never marry; if she escapes illicit connections, she will be fortunate, and probably get some money by will. To a young man it denotes that he will marry a gay wife, who will be of loose principles; and also that he himself will keep a mistress, and perhaps become a gambler. He will not be poor as long as he is young and attractive, but he will either die young or become poor in middle age. To gamblers, the throwing of this number is a sign of success in winning money.

SEVEN. If a man throws this number it foretells that he will never marry, but will be lucky in business speculations. A young lady who throws it will be apt to marry a wealthy husband, though he may not be an agreeable companion. To farmers and mechanics it is not a particularly bad number, though it does not promise them much success, and it foretells that they will have pretty hard work to keep even with the world.

EIGHT. This is the miser’s throw; those who throw it will probably be well off, though not rich. It foretells a miserly or stingy disposition, and a character too close in money matters to be very prosperous. If a girl throw this to test the character of her lover, she may be assured that he will not be poor, though it is possible he may lead her an unhappy life from his selfish and penurious habits.

NINE. If you throw this number with the dice with reference to your future husband or wife, be assured that you will be lucky in your choice. It foretells an orderly, energetic and industrious person. I should not want a better wife than this number predicts. To a young girl it does not promise riches with a husband, but it foretells thrift and plenty, and that she may be rich, too. It is a fair business throw also—foretelling pretty good luck in everything except games of chance, and predicting bad luck in such games.

TEN. If a young girl throws this number, she will not marry very soon, and perhaps not at all; but she will have good luck in other matters, and rise above her present position in society. If a man throws it, he will get a rich wife. It is a favorable number to the male sex in love matters. A married woman who throws it will rise in the world, or have a legacy left to her.

ELEVEN. This throw foretells extravagance and fondness of show and display. Those who throw it, or for whose fortune it may be thrown, will probably have the command of means, but all will be spent in gimcracks, parties of pleasure, and in adorning the person; and though they may not come to poverty, they will leave nothing but debt to their heirs. To laboring people it denotes that they will be always in debt, and live above their means.

TWELVE. Shows that an event of some kind is soon to occur in your affairs, either for good or evil. To a farmer or a laboring man it will probably be fortunate, but it may be otherwise. To a banker, a money-dealer, or a jeweler, it is generally a bad omen—to other trades, uncertain. It has no special reference to love matters.

THIRTEEN. I hope no virtuous young girl will ever be so unfortunate as to throw this number, unless she be possessed of a resolution as firm as a rock, for it foretells that she will be sorely tempted to become profligate. It is emphatically the throw of an unchaste female. If a man throws this number, it is a sign that he will never marry, but will associate with harlots, or live with a woman who is not his wife; if he throws it with a view to discover the character of his lady-love, he may guess the result.

FOURTEEN. This is the gambler’s throw, and denotes dishonesty and an unprincipled disposition in men, and misfortune in women. If a man throws it, he will be either a gambler or a rich rogue, if he has brains enough, and if his intellect is not sufficient, he will probably be a small swindler, or the favored lover of a lewd woman, or both. Although these will be his characteristics, yet circumstances may place him in a different position, but he will always be mercenary, selfish, impudent, and without pride of character. To a girl this number foretells an unhappy marriage, and misfortune by that means; but if she remains single, and keeps clear of lovers, she will avoid the ill omen.

FIFTEEN. If you are a speculating character—a buyer of lottery tickets or lottery policies, or are engaged in any games of chance, such as gambling, horse-racing, shooting at a mark, betting, or in fact any scheme that you expect to win money by, this number foretells bad luck and discomfiture. If you try to test your luck in any such matters, and this number turns up, you may be sure you will lose, and had better give up at once. If you want to buy land, you will be apt to get a good bargain and be fortunate. This number foretells good luck to a farmer putting in his crops, and the same to a girl choosing a husband; for though she may not get a rich man, yet he will be industrious, thrifty, comfortable, and good-hearted. To consumptive people this throw is not a favorable one, as in many cases it predicts a short life to them.

SIXTEEN. This is an unlucky number to a merchant, a banker, or a mechanic. It foretells bad luck of some kind, though it is generally a forerunner of a brisk and profitable business. An excellent run of business may come first, and the bad luck afterwards, or _vice versa_, but the misfortune is sure to come in somewhere. To a farmer this throw foretells abundant crops, and to a gold-digger good luck and plenty of the precious metal. A young girl who throws it will get a thrifty husband, and have a numerous family.

SEVENTEEN. If you are a girl, and think of getting married, you will be apt to lose your lover unless he is a farmer, a gardener, a well-digger, a gold-miner, a brewer, a coal-heaver, a grave-digger, or some occupation that makes him use a shovel a good deal. If you think of marrying any such man, this throw is a good one. For a man of any other occupation, it foretells disappointment. To a young man, this number shows that by perseverance and industry he will do well in the world—that his luck will be good if he only tries his best to get along. If you have had anything stolen from you, or have lost valuable property while walking or riding, this throw is unfavorable; you will probably never recover what you have lost.

EIGHTEEN. People who throw this number may congratulate themselves, as it foretells riches, honors, and a happy and contented life. It predicts unexceptionable prosperity in all kinds of business, good luck in love matters, and advancement to those who are honorably ambitious. To rogues and dishonest people it is an omen of discomfiture, detection and punishment.

PALMISTRY,

OR TELLING FORTUNES BY THE LINES OF THE HAND.

Many people think the predictions from lines in the hand are all guess-work, but it is a mistake, for they are determined by simple rules and long observation. Let us explain the matter:

In the first place each finger has its name.

(1) Forefinger: Jupiter ♃
(2) Middle finger: Saturn ♄
(3) Ring finger: The Sun ⨀
(4) Little finger: Mercury ☿
(5) Thumb: Venus ♀

Each hand has five main lines.

(1) The Life line: L. Vitalis.
(2) The Natural line: L. Naturalis.
(3) The Table line: L. Mensalis.
(4) The Liver line: L. Hepatica.
(5) The Wrist line: L. Rascetta.

(_See Engraving._)

1. LINEA VITALIS.

If this line is wanting or nearly so, it is by no means a good sign. It signifies a feeble understanding, a faint heart, and a short, sickly life. This, however, is not the signification in every case; it often indicates, especially with the ladies, changeableness of feeling, a disposition easily influenced by others, and a proneness to enthusiasm.

The length of life is in proportion to the length of the line of Life. It begins between ♃ and ♀ and it is here that you commence with the prophecy.

Each knot in this line denotes an obstacle, or, at least, something momentous in life. Each crossing by smaller lines, some unpleasant occurrence. The larger the cross, the greater the misfortune.

In most cases one or more lines run from the Natural line to the line of Life. This indicates the partner of one’s life. The point where the junction takes place denotes the point of time of the marriage. If this occurs near the commencement of the line, of course the marriage will take place early in life. If two lines unite with the line of Life it indicates two husbands (or wives). If no line joins it, the person will remain unmarried.

The clearer and more distinct the line of Life, the happier the person’s life. When it is fine, deep and sharply defined, it denotes an energetic, and at the same time a noble character.

2. LINEA NATURALIS.

A regular length and good appearance of this line denotes excellent digestive organs. Large crosses occurring in its course signify imprudence, precipitation.

3. LINEA MENSALIS.

If it is well defined it indicates an amorous temperament; if accompanied by a side line, it signifies good fortune in love and wedlock. If it is very broad, happiness in domestic life. If it is interrupted it denotes that sad calamity, infidelity.

4. LINEA HEPATICA.

If it is complete and tolerably long, it promises robust health, a clear understanding, and good humor. If it throws out branches near its commencement it signifies wit, acuteness, presence of mind, a spirit of mischief, perhaps falsehood.

5. LINEA RASCETTA.

When it is complete and unbroken, it denotes good fortune in all matters of importance.

From the ring finger (Solis ⨀) there commonly runs one or more lines into the Linea Mensalis. These denote the various inclinations of the heart. If but a single line is actually visible, and if this is deep and long, the person loves or will love faithfully and warmly. If a number of smaller lines are found in its place, the person is inconstancy itself, a butterfly roving from flower to flower. Add up all these little lines, and the sum will give you the number of times the person will fall in love.

PHRENOLOGY AND PHYSIOGNOMY.

The science of Phrenology teaches how to discover from the formation of the skull the qualities of the soul, and to draw conclusions as to the character of an individual. The whole head, accordingly, is divided into organs. The following are the principal ones, and are all that are necessary for the reader’s instruction. To enter more deeply into the subject would exceed our limits.

1. Memory.
2. Causality.
3. Benevolence.
4. Approbativeness.
5. Painting.
6. Energy.
7. Imagination.
8. Inclination to Melancholy.
9. Mischievousness.

(_See Engraving._)

According as these organs are more or less elevated and well formed that peculiarity of character which they indicate is more or less present.

PHYSIOGNOMY, OR THE FEATURES OF THE HEAD AND FACE, teaches us to judge of the character of a person and of events connected with his destiny from the shape, color and expression of his features. If my fair readers would like to know how many husbands they are to have, they have only to knit their eyebrows closely together, and count the folds of the skin formed by this movement.

If they wish to see how many years they have to live, let them elevate their brows as much as possible, and then count the cross folds in the forehead. Subtract the number found from one hundred, and the remainder is the number of the years which it is allotted you to pass upon this earth.

OF THE NOSE. A bold, projecting nose, usually called a Roman nose, denotes an enterprising temper. In general a large nose is a good sign. A long nose is a sign of good sense, a stumpy one generally indicates the contrary. A perfectly straight nose denotes a high and noble spirit, unless the expression of the eyes contradicts this judgment, and then it denotes great stupidity. A turned up nose signifies a spirit of mischief, wit, forwardness, that is, if it is not too stumpy. A very small nose indicates good nature, yet at the same time a complete want of energy. A red nose denotes a cheerful temper, or an inclination to drink, as all the world knows.

OF THE LIPS. Very thick lips indicate either great stupidity or very great genius. Very fine thin lips denote falsehood, especially if they are usually compressed. Swelling lips, if generally compressed, denote great decision of character, a philosophical turn of mind, and oftentimes somewhat of obstinacy. A mouth always open says as plain as words can speak, “I am a calf.”

OF DIMPLES. Dimples in the cheeks signify roguery. But the dimple in the chin the God of Love has himself imprinted with his own divine finger.

OF THE EYE. The soul, however, dwells particularly in the eyes, and the faculty is inborn with every man to understand their language without ever having studied it. At least it should be so; the eyes should be like an open book, which all may read and understand. But as all eyes are not to be trusted, and will sometimes lead you astray, I will give you, my dear readers, a few rules to guide you in your path through life.

A clear eye, with the pupil in continual, slightly tremulous movement, denotes a good memory, yet something of selfishness with slowness of comprehension.

An eye which, while the person speaks, roves hither and thither, denotes a deceiver. Very quiet eyes which have an imposing effect upon you, and embarrass you by their great repose, signify great self-command, yet, at the same time, great self-complacency.

Eyes which ordinarily appear impressive, yet often suddenly flash forth a clear pleasant light, denote true-heartedness and honesty, coupled with a sound understanding.

Eyes which have always an inquisitive expression in them, and then suddenly, when they turn to address a person, have an exceedingly kind expression, are not to be trusted. This indicates a suspicious temper, and he who does not trust his fellow-man, can seldom himself be trusted.

An eye in which the white has a yellowish tinge, and is streaked with reddish veins, denotes vehement passions.

Very blue eyes, betray a temper inclined to coquetry.

Gray eyes, intelligence.

Greenish, falsehood, and a disposition to tittle-tattle.

Yellowish, great phlegm.

Black, a passionate lively temperament.

Brown, a kind, good, happy disposition.

A pair of eyes which looks every one cheerfully and frankly in the face, with an air of simple joy and unaffected innocence, yet, when surprised, droops to the ground, with a certain sly bashfulness, or, when offended by another’s glance, turns aside blushing and confused, such a pair of eyes, indicates an amiable character, a faithful heart, a sound understanding, and a pure soul.

A being with such a pair of eyes we cannot help loving, let the eyes be black, brown, blue, gray, green, or yellow, let the nose be stumpy, and the features ill-shaped, no one can help regarding their possessor with a feeling of hearty kindness and good will, if not with actual love.

OF THE EYE-BROWS. Upright eyebrows are amiable; the eyebrows hanging over, indicate an effeminate person; the brows very hairy, denote an industrious, affectionate man; the brows extending to the temples, usually signify a slovenly man.

OF THE EARS. Open ears usually indicate but little reason; great ears not too much wisdom; very small ears foolishness; square ears of medium size, prudence.

OF THE NOSTRILS. The nostrils thick and strong, betoken strength; if round, fair, and drawn in length, they are a sign that the person is merry and courageous; if narrow and round, they are mostly indicative of an envious and foolish person.

OF THE MOUTH. A very large mouth, with the upper lip hanging over, usually signifies a foolish, unsteady person, a rash man and a babbler. A mouth not too large, indicates a bold and courageous man; and a small mouth, a clever man.

OF THE FACE. A lean face is an indication of a wise man; the face plain and fat, denotes a person addicted to strife. The face without any rising and swelling, indicates a penurious person; a sad face sometimes denotes foolishness, and at other times wisdom; a fat face indicates a man to be inclined to untruth; a round face signifies folly; a great face denotes a man slow about business; a well-proportioned face indicates a person to have virtuous qualities.

OF THE NAILS ON THE FINGERS. Broad nails show the person to be bashful, fearful, but of gentle nature. When there is a certain white mark at the extremity of them, it shows that the person has more honesty than subtlety. White long nails denote much sickness, but are sometimes indicative of strength and deceit. If upon the white anything appears at the extremity that is pale, it denotes short life; but if the white is clear and smooth, it signifies long life.

OF THE HEAD. A large head shows a person stupid, and dull of apprehension; also a very small head signifies the same; but the head of a man being neither great nor small, is the prognostic of a wise man; for all extremes are irregular and a deviation from nature, and experience has made it manifest, that a great head and small members do always produce great indiscretion and folly in either man or woman; but we must also consider the several parts of the head: and first,

OF THE FOREHEAD. A large forehead shows a liberal man; but the forehead narrow, denotes a foolish person; a long forehead shows one apt to learn; a high forehead, swelling and round, is a sign of a crafty man, and a coward; a forehead full of wrinkles, shows a man to be envious and crafty.

But in forming your opinions of men from these or other indications, you should always bear in mind that there is no rule without an exception.

FORTUNE-TELLING BY MOLES.

These little marks on the skin, although they appear to be the effect of chance, or accident, and might easily pass with the unthinking for things of no moment, are nevertheless of the utmost consequence, since from their color, situation, size, and figure, may be accurately gathered the temper of, and the events that will happen to the person bearing them; though moles are, in their substances, nothing else than excrescences, or ebullitions which proceed from the state of the blood whilst the fœtus is confined in the womb, yet they are not given in vain, as they are generally characteristic of the disposition and temper of those that bear them; and it is also proved by daily experience, that from the shape, situation, and other circumstances, they bear a strong analogy to the events which are to happen to a person in future life. But before I presume to give any directions to those who are to form the prognostic, who are desirous to be duly enabled to pronounce an infallible judgment, I shall, in the first place, teach you herein the common prognostications by moles found in the various parts of the body, according to the doctrine of the ancients. And, first, it is essentially necessary to know the size of the mole, its color, whether it be perfectly round, oblong, or angular; because each of these will add to or diminish the force of the indication. The larger the mole, the greater will be the prosperity or adversity of the person; the smaller the mole, the less will be his good or evil fate. If the mole is round, it indicates good; if oblong, a moderate share of fortunate events; if angular, it gives a mixture of good and evil; the deeper the color, the more it announces favor or disgrace; the lighter, the less of either. If it is very hairy, much misfortune may be expected; if but few long hairs grow upon it, it denotes that your undertakings will be prosperous.

We shall further remark only, that moles of a middling size and color are those which we are now going to speak of. The rest may be gathered from what we have just above mentioned, but as it may frequently happen that modesty will sometimes hinder persons from showing their moles, you must depend upon their own representation of them for your opinion.

SIGNIFICATION OF MOLES.

ARM. (_Right or Left._) Show a courteous disposition, great fortitude, resolution, industry, and conjugal fidelity; it foretells that the person will fight many battles, and be successful in all; that you will be prosperous in your undertakings, obtain a decent competency, and live very happy—it denotes that a man will be a widower at forty, but in a woman it shows that she will be survived by her husband.

ANKLE. Shows an effeminate disposition, given to foppery in dress, and cowardice in a man; but in a woman it denotes courage, wit, and activity—they foretell success in life with an agreeable partner, accumulation of honors and riches, and much pleasure in the affairs of love.

ANUS. Around outside this place, a mole predicts that you will be indolent, shiftless and poor, though of good capacity.

ARM-PITS. You will be very good looking, will become rich, and be benevolent.

BACK. If just below either of the shoulder blades, it signifies that you will have misfortune and defeat in the enterprises you may undertake.

BELLY. Shows an indolent, slothful disposition, given to gluttony, very selfish, addicted to the pleasures of love and drink, negligent of dress, and cowardly; it denotes small success in life, many crosses, some imprisonment, and travelling, with losses by sea; but it foretells that you will marry an agreeable partner of a sweet temper, have children, who will be industrious and become very respectable in life.

BOSOM. Shows a quarrelsome and unhappy temper, given to low debauchery, and exceedingly amorous, indolent and unsteady; it denotes a life neither very prosperous nor very miserable, but passed without many friends or much esteem.

BREAST. A mole on the right breast shows an intemperate and indolent disposition, rather given to drink, strongly attached to the joys of love; it denotes much misfortune in life, with a sudden reverse from riches to poverty—many unpleasant and disagreeable accidents, with a sober and industrious partner—many children, mostly girls, who will all marry well, and be a great comfort to your old age; it warns you to beware of pretended friends, who will harm you much. A mole on the left breast shows an industrious and sober disposition, amorous, and much given to walking; it denotes great success in life and in love, that you will accumulate riches, and have many children, mostly boys, who will make their fortunes by sea.

A mole under the left breast under the heart, shows a rambling, unsettled disposition, given to drinking and little careful of your actions; very amorous, and much given to indulge indiscriminately in the pleasures of love, in a man. In a woman it indicates sincerity in love, industry, and a strict regard for character; in life it denotes a varied mixture of good and bad fortune, the former rather prevailing; it denotes imprisonment for debt, but not of long duration. To a woman it denotes easy labors, and children who will become rich, live happy and respected, and marry well.

BUTTOCKS. Signifies shiftlessness and poverty, though a good capacity; it is a sign that you will be too lazy to do anything for yourself.

CHEEK. A mole on either cheek, shows an industrious, benevolent and sober disposition, given to be grave and solemn, little inclined to amorous sports, but of a steady courage and unshaken fortitude; it denotes a moderate success in life, neither becoming rich nor falling into poverty—it also foretells an agreeable and industrious partner, with two children, who will do better than the parents.

CHIN. A mole on the chin shows an amiable and tranquil disposition, industrious and much inclined to travelling, and the joys of Venus; it denotes that the person will be highly successful in life, accumulating a large and splendid fortune, with many respectable and worthy friends, an agreeable conjugal partner, and fine children, but also indicates losses by sea and in foreign countries.

EAR. On either ear it denotes riches in man or woman. If on the lower tip of the ear, keep off the water, or you will be drowned.

ELBOW. A mole on either elbow shows a restless and unsteady disposition, with a great desire for travelling—much discontented in the married state and of an idle turn; it indicates no very great prosperity, rather a sinking than rising condition, with many unpleasant adventures, much to your discredit—marriage to a person who will make you unhappy, and children who will be disobedient, and cause you much trouble.

EYE. A mole on the outside corner of either eye shows a sober, honest, and steady disposition, much inclined to the pleasures of love; it foretells a violent death, after a life considerably varied by pleasures and misfortunes; in general it foreshadows that poverty will keep at a distance.

EYEBROW. A mole on the right eyebrow signifies a sprightly, active disposition, a great turn for gallantry, much courage, and great perseverance; it denotes wealth and success in love, war and business; that you will marry an agreeable mate, live happy, have children, and die in an advanced old age, at a distance from home. On the left eyebrow, temple, or side of the forehead, shows an indolent peevish temper, a turn for debauchery and liquor, little inclined to amorous sports and very cowardly; foretells poverty, imprisonment and disappointments in all your undertakings, with undutiful children, and a bad-tempered partner.

FINGER. On either finger of either hand, it shows that you will be a thief, or a dishonest person in some way, and never wealthy.

FOOT. A mole on either foot shows a melancholy and inactive disposition, little inclined to the pleasures of love, given to reading and a sedentary life; they foretell sickness and unexpected misfortunes, with many sorrows and much trouble, an unhappy choice of a partner for life, with disobedient and unfortunate children.

FOREHEAD. If the mole is in the centre of the forehead it predicts an active, industrious disposition, success in business, riches, honors, a happy marriage, and a son who will be distinguished. But if the mole is on the side of the forehead, the signification is not so favorable, particularly if on the left side. (_See Eyebrow._) On the right side of the forehead, or right temple, shows an active and industrious disposition, much given to the sports of love; it denotes that she will be very successful in life, marry an agreeable partner, and arrive at unexpected riches and honors, and have a son, who will become a great man.

GROIN. On the right groin denotes riches and honors, but to be accompanied with disease. On the left groin, you will have the sickness without the wealth.

GULLET. On that part of the throat called the gullet, it predicts that you will be distinguished in some way and become rich.

HAND. Moles on either hand, if not on the fingers, denote wealth, industry and energy in either sex. You will also be fortunate and happy in your children.

HEART. Over the heart, denotes wickedness, poverty and a hasty, headstrong disposition. (_See Breast._)

HEEL. Shows a spiteful and malevolent disposition, but a person of much energy, who may be successful in what he undertakes; that he will be greatly talked about behind his back.

HIP. A mole on either hip shows a contented disposition, given to industry, amorous and faithful in engagements, of an abstemious turn; it foretells moderate success in life, with many children, who will undergo many hardships with great fortitude, and arrive at ease and affluence, by dint of their industry and ingenuity.

KNEE. A mole on the left knee shows a hasty and passionate disposition, extravagant and inconsiderate turn, with no great inclination to industry and honesty, much given to the pleasures of Venus, but possessed of much benevolence; it indicates good success in undertakings, particularly in contracts, a rich marriage, and an only child. On the right knee, shows an amiable temper, honest disposition and a turn for amorous pleasures and industry; it foretells great success in love, and the choice of a conjugal partner, with few sorrows, many friends, and dutiful children.

LEG. Moles on either leg show a person of a thoughtless, indolent disposition, of an amorous turn, much given to extravagance and dissipation; it denotes many difficulties through life, but that you will surmount them all; it shows that imprisonment will happen to you at an early age, but that in general you will be more fortunate than otherwise; you will marry an agreeable person, who will survive you, by whom you will have four children, two of which will die young.

LIPS. A mole on either lip shows a delicate appetite, a sober disposition, and much given to the pleasures of love, of an industrious and benevolent turn; it denotes that the person will be successful in undertakings, particularly in love affairs—that you will rise above your present condition, and be greatly respected and esteemed—that you will endeavor to obtain some situation, in which you will at first prove unsuccessful, but afterward prevail.

MONS. If a woman have a mole here, she will become the mother of a great genius, or else the wife of a distinguished personage. It is also a sign of riches.

MOUTH. (_See Lips._)

NAVEL. On a woman it denotes many children, a good husband, and an abundance of this world’s goods. On a man it is a sign he will be lucky in all he undertakes, become very rich, and that he will have a son who will be distinguished.

NECK. In front of the neck is a good sign; you will rise to unexpected honors and dignities, or become rich. On the back of the neck it denotes misfortune. On either side of the neck it foretells that you will become wicked or quarrelsome; and if on the right side, behind the ear, it is a sign that you will be hung.

NIPPLE. In woman it is a sign that she will have a child that will become famous and distinguished in the world. In man it denotes that he will be fond of women, and spend much of his life in amours, to the neglect of his proper business.

NOSE. Moles on any part of the nose, show a hasty and passionate disposition, much given to amorous pleasures, faithful to engagements, candid, open, and sincere in friendship, courageous and honest, but very petulant, and rather given to drink; it denotes great success through life and in love affairs—that you will become rich, marry well, have fine children and be much esteemed by your neighbors and acquaintance—that you will travel much, particularly by water.

NOSTRIL. Inside the nostril shows that you will be energetic and persevering, and well off in the world; that you will get a good wife or husband when you marry.

PRIVATE MEMBERS. Moles on these parts show a generous, open and honest disposition, extremely disposed to gallantry, and the joys of Venus, given to sobriety, and of undaunted courage; it denotes great success in the latter part of life, but many and severe misfortunes in the former, which will be borne with fortitude; it also foretells a happy marriage and fine children, who will be happy, thrive well, and grow rich and respectable: in man it shows that he will have natural children, who will cut a great figure in life, but he will experience much plague and vexation from their mother.

SHIN. (_See Leg._)

SHOULDER. On the left shoulder shows a person of a quarrelsome, unruly disposition, always inclined to dispute for trifles, rather indolent, but much inclined to the pleasures of love, and faithful to the conjugal vows. It denotes a life not much varied either with pleasures or misfortunes; they indicate many children, and moderate success in business, but dangers by sea. On the right shoulder shows a person of a prudent and discreet temper, one possessed of much wisdom, given to great secrecy, very industrious, but not very amorous, yet faithful to conjugal ties; it indicates great prosperity and advancement in life, a good partner, and many friends, with great profit from a journey to a distant country, about the age of thirty-five.

SIDE. On either side, near any part of the ribs, shows an indolent, cowardly disposition, given to excessive drinking, of an inferior capacity, and little inclined to the pleasures of love; it denotes an easy life, rather of poverty than riches, little respected, a partner of an uneven and disagreeable temper, with undutiful children, who will fall into many difficulties.

STOMACH. If in the pit of the stomach, it shows a person of foppish disposition, with little common sense, though much industry; it also denotes riches. If lower down on the stomach, it is a sign that you will promise more than you will perform, but will nevertheless be highly esteemed.

THIGH. On the right thigh, it shows the person to be of an agreeable temper, inclined to be amorous, and very courageous: it also denotes success in life, accumulation of riches by marriage, and many fine children, chiefly girls. On the left thigh, shows a good and benevolent disposition, a great turn for industry, and little inclined to the pleasures of love: it likewise indicates many sorrows in life, great poverty, unfaithful friends, and imprisonment by the false swearing of some one.

THROAT. It predicts a fortunate and wealthy marriage to either sex. (_See Neck._)

TONGUE. If a man shall have a mole on his tongue, it foretells that he shall marry with a rich and beautiful woman of great celebrity. On a woman’s tongue it denotes reserve of manner and wisdom; also a fortunate marriage.

WRIST. Moles on the wrist, or between that and the finger ends, show the person to be of an ingenious and industrious turn, faithful in his engagements, amorous and constant in his affections, rather of a saving disposition, with a great degree of sobriety and regularity in his dealings. It foreshows a comfortable acquisition of fortune, with a good partner, and beautiful children, but some disagreeable circumstances will happen about the age of thirty, which continue four or five years. In a man, it denotes being twice married—in a woman only once, but that she will survive her husband.

TO CHOOSE A HUSBAND BY THE HAIR.

BLACK. Generally healthy, but apt to be cross; fond where he fixes his attachment, and likely to make a good husband, and be careful of his family: but if short and curly, is usually of an unsettled temper, apt to show a want of prudence and carefulness in early life.

WHITE OR FAIR HAIR. Usually of a weak and sickly constitution, fond of music, and will cut no great figure in the world.

YELLOW. Fond, but inclinable to jealousy; and not always industrious.

LIGHT BROWN. Sensible and good-humored, careful and attentive, and, if saving of his income, generally makes a good husband; but is apt to be otherwise.

DARK BROWN. Neither very good nor very bad, middling in all respects, but may be regarded as a pretty good character.

VERY DARK BROWN. Of a robust constitution, and of a grave disposition, but sometimes not very good-tempered and sensible, and kind to a good wife.

RED. Will be cunning, artful, and fond of female companions; and be generally of a lively temper, and sometimes careless of money.

SIGNIFICATION OF THE NAILS.

BROAD NAILS. The person that hath the nails thus, is of gentle nature, good, and pusillanimous, and a great fear to speak before great persons, or those by whom they are in subjection; as also being guilty of extreme bashfulness.

If about these nails there happens to be an excoriation of the flesh, which is commonly called points—in these large nails it signifies the party given to luxury, yet fearful, but usually given to excess.

When there is at the extremity a white mark, it signifies ruin through negligence. The party has more honesty than subtlety.

WHITE NAILS. He that hath the nails white and long, is sickly, and subject to much infirmity by fevers; he is neat but not very strong, because of his indispositions, much addicted to the company of women by whom he will be greatly deceived.

NARROW NAILS. The person with such nails, is desirous of attaining knowledge in the sciences; but is never long at peace with his neighbors. But if to narrowness they add some degree of length, the person will be led away by ambitious propensities, always aiming at things which he will be unable to obtain.

ROUND NAILS. These declare a hasty person, yet good-natured and very forgiving; a lover of knowledge, liberal sentiment, doing no one any harm, and acting by his own principles, but too proud of his own abilities.

LONG NAILS. When the nails are long, the person is of a good-natured turn, but placing confidence in no man, being from his youth familiar with duplicity, but not practising it, from his strict adherence to virtue.

FLESHY NAILS. This description of nail indicates an idler, loving to sleep, eat, and drink; not delighting in bustle and busy life; one who prefers a narrow income without industry, to one of opulence to be acquired by activity and diligence.

LITTLE NAILS. Little round nails discover a person to be obstinately angry, seldom pleased, inclining to hate every one, as conceiving himself superior to others, though without any reason.

PALE OR LEAD-COLORED NAILS. A melancholy person, one who through choice leads a sedentary life, and would willingly give up all things for the sake of study, and to improve in the learned and metaphysical branches of philosophy.

RED AND SPOTTED NAILS. Choleric and martial, delighting in cruelty and war; his chief pleasure being in plundering towns, where every ferocious particle in human nature is glutted to satiety.

When you find any black spots upon the nails, they always signify evil, as white ones are a token of good.

FORTUNE-TELLING BY TEA OR COFFEE GROUNDS.

TO POUR OUT THE GROUNDS OF A TEA OR COFFEE CUP.—Pour the grounds of coffee or tea into a white cup, shake them well about in it, so that their particles may cover the surface of the whole cup; then reverse it into the saucer, that all the superfluous parts may be drained, and the figures required for fortune-telling be formed.

The person who acts as the fortune-teller, must always bend his or her thoughts upon him or her who is to have their fortune told, and on their rank in life, and profession, in order to give plausibility to the predictions. It is not to be expected that upon taking up the cup, the figures will be accurately represented as they are in reality, but it will be quite sufficient if they bear some resemblance to any of the emblems; and the more fertile the fancy is of the person that inspects the cup, the more he or she will discover in it.

In other respects, every one who takes a pleasure in this amusement, must be a judge under what circumstances he or she is to make changes in point of time—speaking, just as it suits, in the present, the past, or the future; in the same manner, their ingenuity ought to direct them when to speak more or less pointedly with regard to sex.

THE ROADS, or separate lines, indicate ways; if they are covered with clouds, and, consequently, in the thick, they are said to be infallible marks, either of many great or future reverses. But if they appear in the clear and serene, are the surest token of some fortunate change near at hand; encompassed with many points or dots, they signify either a gain of money, or long life.

THE RING signifies marriage; if a letter is near it, it denotes to the person that has their fortune told, the initial of the name of the party to be married. If the ring is in the clear, it portends happy and lucrative friendship; if surrounded with clouds, the contrary. But if the ring appear at the bottom of the cup, it forebodes the probability of a separation.

THE LEAF OF CLOVER is, as well here as in common life, a lucky sign. Its different position in the cup alone makes the difference; because, if it be on the top, it shows that the good fortune is not far distant; but it is subject to delay, if it be in the middle or at the bottom. Should clouds surround it, it shows that many disagreeables will attend the good fortune; in the clear, it prognosticates serene and undisturbed happiness.

THE ANCHOR. The emblem of hope and commerce, implies successful business carried on by water and by land, if on the bottom of the cup; at the top and in the clear part, it shows constant love and fidelity; but in thick and cloudy parts, it denotes inconstancy.

THE SERPENT, always the emblem of falsehood and enmity, is likewise here a general sign of an enemy. On the top or in the middle of the cup, it promises to the consulting party that by his always acting properly, his enemies will not be able to triumph over him; if in the thick or cloudy part, he must watch his temper and actions very carefully, to prevent great troubles.

THE COFFIN. The emblem of death, prognosticates the same thing here, or at least a long and tedious illness, if it be in the thick or turbid. In the clear, it denotes long life; if in the thick, at the top of the cup, it signifies a considerable estate likely to be made by cautious industry.

THE DOG, being at all times the emblem of fidelity or envy, has also a two-fold meaning here. At the top, in the clear, it signifies true and faithful friends: if the image be surrounded with clouds and dashes, it shows that some whom you take for your friends are not to be depended on; but if the dog be at the bottom of the cup, take much care not to excite any person to envy or jealousy, or you will have to dread the effects of both.

THE LILY. If this emblem be at the top, or in the middle of the cup, it signifies that the consulting party either has, or will have, a good spouse; if it be at the bottom, it denotes anger. In the clear, the lily further betokens a long and happy life; if clouded, or in the thick, it portends trouble and vexations.

THE CROSS, in general, predicts adversities; if it be at the top, and in the clear, it indicates that the misfortunes of the party will soon be at an end, or that he will, by careful conduct, easily get over them; but if it appear in the middle, or at the bottom of the thick, the party must expect many severe trials; if it appear with dots, either in clear or thick, it promises recompense for sorrow.

THE CLOUDS. If they be more bright than dark, you may expect a good result from your hopes; but if they are black, you may give it up. Surrounded with dots, they imply success in trade, if you are saving, and not too venturesome; the brighter they are, the greater will be your happiness.

THE SUN, is an emblem of the greatest luck and happiness, if in the clear; but in the thick, it denotes a great deal of illness; surrounded by dots or dashes, it foretells that, without much circumspection, an alteration will soon take place.

THE MOON. If it appear in the clear, it denotes high honors; in the dark or thick parts, it implies disappointment and sadness, which will, however, pass without great prejudice. But if it be at the bottom of the cup, the consulting party may expect, by industry and prudent conduct, to be very fortunate.

THE STAR denotes happiness, if in the clear, and at the top of the cup; if clouded, or in the thick, it signifies long life, though exposed to various troubles. If dots are about it, it foretells fortune and respectability. Several dots denote good children; surrounded by dots, it predicts that, without good bringing up, they may cause you grief and vexation.

MOUNTAINS. If it present only one mountain, it indicates the favor of people of rank; but several of them, especially in the thick, are signs of powerful enemies; in the clear, they signify the contrary, or friends in high life.

THE LETTER. Signifies both pleasant and unpleasant news. If this emblem is in the clear part, it denotes the speedy arrival of welcome news; surrounded with dots, it announces the arrival of a remittance of money; but hemmed in by clouds, it forebodes some melancholy or bad tidings, a loss, or some other accident; if it be in the clear, and accompanied by a heart, lovers may expect a favorable letter; but in the thick it denotes the contrary.

THE TREE. One tree only is indicative of good health; a group of trees in the clear part, betokens misfortunes, but which may be avoided by carefulness and industrious habits; several trees, wide apart, promise that your wishes will be accomplished; if they be encompassed by dashes, it is a token that your fortune is in its blossom, and requires only your own care and prudence to bring it to maturity; if the trees be accompanied by dots, it is a sign of riches.

THE CHILD. In the clear part it bespeaks innocent intercourse between the consulter and another person; in the thick part it signifies crosses in love matters, and requires your utmost care to prevent great expenses; and a family without means of support.

THE WOMAN. Signifies much joy in general. If in the clear, this emblem shows very great happiness; but in the thick part it cautions against jealousy. If dots surround the image, it shows children and wealth.

THE PEDESTRIAN. Denotes in general a merchant, good business, pleasant news, or the recovery of lost things. It denotes to the female a kind and industrious husband; it also signifies some engagement, and a short journey.

THE RIDER OR HORSEMAN. Denotes a letter, good news from abroad, a good situation, or the like; it also foretells that a fortune is to be obtained by care and industry.

THE MOUSE. As this animal lives by stealth, it also is an emblem of theft or robbery; if it be in the clear, it shows that your loss will be easily prevented; but if in the thick, you must use your utmost watchfulness.

THE ROSE, OR ANY OTHER FLOWER. Usually indicates success in science or art by study; if married, good children may be expected, and all the happy fruits, if they have but a good education and good examples.

THE HEART. If it be in the clear, it signifies future pleasure. It promises joy at receiving some money, if surrounded with dots. If a ring or two hearts be together, it signifies that the party may expect to be married; if a letter is perceptible near it, it shews the initial of the person’s name.

THE GARDEN, WOOD, OR BUSH. Signifies a large company. In the clear and with leaves, it indicates good friends; in the thick, encompassed with streaks, or if without leaves, it is a token of the caprices of fortune, and warns the consulting party to be cautious whom they take for their friends.

THE ROD. Predicts differences with people about matters relating to legacies; in the thick, it denotes some affliction, which will require your utmost care to avert.

THE BIRD IN GENERAL. In the clear, it signifies that the disagreeables and troubles with which you will have to combat, will only be surmounted by persevering in doing good; in the thick, it is a sign of good living; also a speedy journey, or voyage, which, if there be dashes, is likely to be to a distance.

FISH IN GENERAL. Imply some lucky event by water, if in the clear, which will either happen to the consulter, or be the means of improving his affairs. If they are in the thick, the consulter may expect to fish in troubled water. Surrounded with dots, his destiny warns him to use diligence, temperance and frugality.

THE LION, OR ANY FEROCIOUS BEAST. At the top, in the clear, it signifies prosperity in your intercourse with people of quality. At the bottom it warns the consulter to shun such intercourse and do nothing to excite any person to envy his fortune.

WORMS. At the top, or in the middle of the cup, they denote good luck in trade and in matrimony; below they warn you against rivals in courtship, and against enviers in your trade and profession.

THE STYLE. If combined with an hour-glass and in the thick, it denotes imminent dangers of all kinds; in love, disappointment; but in the clear, it signifies that your sweetheart is faithful and affectionate toward you, and that you are likely to live a long and happy life.

CHARMS AND MAGIC PROGNOSTICATIONS.