Vampire.—This brings a message of gloom and sorrow, or also means that you await the expected news of a death.
Van.—This sign denotes an interesting experiment in which you succeed.
Vanity Bag.—A large circle of admiring friends, and much pleasure with them.
Vase.—This sign brings you a promise of good health.
Vegetable Marrow.—This means sad news or monetary losses through bad crops, either at home or abroad.
Vegetables.—These indicate toil, followed by a time of leisure and affluent circumstances.
Venus.—This planet which is sometimes seen in the tea-leaves, brings a message of peace or placidity.
Vise.—A carpenter's vise signifies that you will need powerful assistance to extricate you from the mess in which you will find yourself through your folly.
Violets.—This is a symbol of high ideals and of the finding of happiness in its fullest sense; several violets assure you of coming joy; if in the form of a cross, death is predicted.
Violin.—A symbol of coming success to a musician, and of pleasure and entertainment to others.
Vulture.—This bird is a forewarning of evil and unrest in various quarters of the globe; it also means a powerful enemy, sometimes death; if it flies, tragedy, sorrow, and tears are predicted.
Wading Boot.—This is a warning to be cautious in swimming or boating, or you may meet with an accident; with other signs it denotes a home by the sea.
Waggon.—This implies a fortunate outlook and changes for the better.
Walking Stick.—The arrival of a male visitor.
Wall.—A thick, high wall denotes many difficulties in your life, and that much courage will be needed to overcome them.
Wallflower.—This sign indicates the serious consideration of a new plan.
Warming Pan.—This is a sign of comfort in small things and domestic peace.
Wasps.—These insects are significant of distress caused by the sharp tongues of those around you.
Water.—This is usually recognised by a clear space entirely free from tea-leaves at the bottom of the cup.
Water Lily.—This flower proclaims a declaration of love.
Weasel.—This animal shows cunning, and points to the sly behaviour of someone with whom you associate, and of whom you feel no suspicion.
Weathercock.—This is a sign that you feel incapable of making up your mind definitely on any matter without first consulting each one with whom you come in contact, and in the end you settle upon an entirely different course of action.
Wedding Cake.—This proclaims a speedy and prosperous marriage.
Whale.—A prediction of personal danger which may be averted if you are cautious.
Wheel.—This is symbolic of the wheel of fortune and foreshows a prosperous career or an inheritance of wealth; a broken wheel predicts a bad disappointment as to an expected increase of income or a legacy.
Wheelbarrow.—This sign foretells a visit to the country or a pleasant renewal of friendship with those who live in it.
Whip.—To a woman this sign foretells vexation and trials in her marriage; for a man, it has much the same meaning, and severe disappointment will befall him.
Wicket Gate.—A small incident leads up to an important future event.
Widow's Bonnet.—This sign must be read in connection with other symbols; sometimes it foreshows grief and mourning, or if dots are round it, that a sum of money or a legacy may be expected from a widow.
Windmill.—A sign that you may hope to succeed in a doubtful enterprise.
Window.—An open window shows that you are regarded with favour by many; a closed one means embarrassment.
Wine Cup.—Joy and realised ambition.
Witch on Broom.—You will be reproved by some of your friends who consider that your interest in psychic matters is dangerous, but later on you will be able to prove to their satisfaction that no harm has come to it.
Witness Box.—With bad signs around it, this would point to a personal matter ending in a law court; otherwise, it denotes the taking place of a trial in which you will feel special interest.
Wolf.—Beware of an avaricious and hard-hearted neighbour or friend.
Woman Carrying a Burden.—An unhappy marriage or unfortunate love affair.
Woman Carrying a Child.—This shows distress, sometimes illness of someone dear to you, or sadness through separation.
Woman Holding a Mirror.—Clairvoyance and prediction of the future are signified by this symbol.
Women.—With bad signs, several women mean scandal; otherwise, society.
Wood.—Much happiness with someone dear to you, a forthcoming wedding, or a fortunate and favourable event.
Woodpecker.—This bird brings pleasant news from those who live in the country.
Worms.—These warn you of coming misfortune, or of treachery, and evil by secret foes.
Wreath.—This is a symbol of marriage, and of much happiness being in store for you.
Yacht.—This is a favourable sign of increased wealth or happiness.
Yew Tree.—You may expect to attain to a prominent position in life, and to receive a legacy from an aged relative or friend.
Zebra.—Something for which you have long waited is now within sight, but you are likely to be disappointed, for you will find that it was not worth waiting for after all.
Ace of Diamonds, A Circle.—An engagement.
Ace of Diamonds, A Bush.—A pleasant invitation.
Ace of Clubs, An Obelisk.—The offer of a good promotion.
Ace of Hearts, A Train, A Query.—Indecision about a removal.
Ace of Hearts, An Urn, A Bed.—Illness in the home.
Ace of Spades, Bricks.—An advantageous offer from a large town.
Arm, A Myrtle Tree, Bird on a Perch.—New plans which bring about a meeting with someone who will become all the world to you.
Arum Lily, Bells, A Church.—A wedding.
Arum Lily, A Bat, A Bed, A Widow's Bonnet.—Death of a widow.
Bacon, Pagoda.—You will make your fortune abroad.
Banana, A Peacock, Ace of Hearts, Trees.—A happy marriage to someone of wealth and property in the country.
Bed, An Engine, Laburnum Tree.—A happy visit to the country in the spring.
Besom, Ugly Faces.—You will make many enemies by mischief-making.
Bonnet, A Bouquet.—Marriage late in life.
Bride, A Crescent Moon, A Swallow.—A journey which leads to a romantic love affair.
Bride, Penknife, An Owl.—Jealousy terminates an unhappy engagement.
Cab, A Square, A Cap.—A gloomy outlook brought about by one of the opposite sex.
Camel (Laden), A Small "T," A Coffin.—An unexpected fortune through the death of someone abroad whose name begins with "T."
Chain (Entangled), Onion.—You will be placed in an embarrassing position by the discovery of a secret.
Chinese Lantern, A Pair of Stilts.—Pride brings about a fall.
Clover, Plums, A Bridge.—A new and excellent opportunity will come your way necessitating a journey.
Daffodils, The Sun.—A joyful occurrence in the spring.
Doves, A Book, A Beehive.—You will advance rapidly and become a well-known writer.
Duck, A Vegetable Marrow.—Rash investments.
Eagle (Flying), A Steamer, A Tent, A Large "E."—A position of honour in Egypt.
Ear, A Beehive, A Trumpet.—Fame as a public speaker.
Fate Line, A Sword in Its Sheath, The Sign of Mars, A Chain.—A happy fate awaits you, and marriage to a soldier who will rise to the top of the tree in his profession.
Frog, A Fish, A Ship, A Large "C".—Emigration to Canada.
Goat, A Running Figure, A Lamb.—There need be no doubt as to the successful outcome of your venture.
Grasshoppers, A Sleigh, A Wreath of Asters.—Death of an elderly friend or relative in the winter.
Key, A Flaming Torch.—Some discovery or the development of a patent leads to your becoming famous.
King on His Throne, An Eagle in a Cage, A Mace.— An important public ceremony in which you take a part.
Ladder, Ring, A Man and a Woman.—Marriage will be the means of advancement and good fortune.
Ladder, A Palette.—Attainment to a position of honour as an artist.
Ladder, The Symbol of Mars.—A most fortunate career as a soldier.
Lion, A Lute.—Rising to the top of the tree, as a musician, is assured by these symbols.
Lion, A Man Speaking from a Platform.—Great success in a public career and the attaining to an influential position.
Lion, A Man Beside a Pestle and Mortar.—Excellent prospects and fame as a doctor.
Lizard, A Peaked Cap.—An expected visitor is not to be trusted.
Mace, A Mallet.—Through wisdom and clear judgment you will rise to a position of authority.
Man Carrying a Burden, A Pair of Scissors, A Mushroom.—Quarrels in an unhappy love affair ending in a broken engagement.
Magnet, A Meat Cover.—An unpleasant discovery leads to the abrupt ending of an infatuation.
Nail, A Pair of Pincers.—A visit to the dentist and the removal of a tooth.
Notice-Board, A Leek, An Open Padlock.—In a surprising manner you will get the information for which you are seeking.
Onions, An Otter.—Those in whom you trusted have betrayed your confidence and divulged a secret.
Owl, A Pail.—Loss of income will necessitate your undertaking distasteful work.
Pagoda, A Palm Tree, Water.—A voyage to a warm climate under very happy conditions.
Pestle and Mortar, A Walking Stick.—Illness and the arrival of the doctor.
Pulpit, Opera Glasses.—Those who weary others by undue curiosity will always remain in ignorance.
Query, A Letter, Initial "B," A Grave Stone.—You will be consulted as to the erecting of a headstone on the grave of a relative or friend.
Quill Pen, Lilies of the Valley, An Organ.—Great happiness through marriage.
Rabbit, An Arrow, A Large Letter "L," A Dagger.—News of severe illness and a probable operation for a child who lives in London.
Rhinoceros, An Overcoat, A Steamer, A Large Letter "I.".—The undertaking of a somewhat hazardous enterprise necessitates a voyage to India; through this much will happen which will eventually lead to your becoming famous.
Rocket, A Pear, A Snowdrop.—News of a birth of which you may expect to hear in February.
Rocking Chair, A Pedestrian, A Mushroom.— Deliberation over important matters brings you to the conclusion that a great venture, which may mean enormous gain, is worth a small risk, and success will await you.
Sailor, A Flying Swallow, A Trident, A Ring.—Happy news of good promotion for a sailor and a proposal of marriage.
Scaffold, Leg of Mutton.—Gambling or speculation will bring you to poverty unless you pay heed to this warning.
Shark, A Pistol, A Flying Seagull.—News from abroad of a tragic death.
Snake, A Ram, A Woman, A Widow's Bonnet.—Overwhelming evidence against some widow who is a dangerous enemy.
Sofa, A Sleigh.—A cold in the head or a chill.
Sword, A Ring, A Man, A Woman, A Toad.—Separation of lovers brought about by slander and malicious talk.
Table, A Quill Pen, A Cat, A Ring with Dots Around.—Legal business over money matters which leads to family quarrels.
Throne, An Ostrich Running, A Flying Seagull, A Flag.—Serious news from abroad of disturbances and rebellion.
Tram Lines, A Building with Dots Around It, A Purse.—You will take a roadway journey to a bank and are warned to beware of pickpockets.
Urn, Hospital Nurse, A Man, A Large Heart.—Serious illness affecting the heart is predicted for a man.
Vegetable Marrow, A Steamer, Native with "Tom-Tom," A Broken Pillar.—Distressing news of misfortune for someone dear to you in India.
Violet, A Water Lily, A Robin, A Crescent Moon, A Ring.—A romantic love affair which ends in a happy marriage taking place in the early spring.
Wading Boot, The Sign of Neptune, Several Penguins, A Mast.—News of a disaster in the North Sea.
Widow's Bonnet, A Pig, A Dotted Circle, The Figures "100."—A small legacy of a hundred pounds may be expected from a widow.
Woodpecker, Trees, A Rose, A Man.—A prospective visit to the country in the summer, when you will meet with someone who will become very dear to you.
Yew Tree, An Open Padlock, A Wallflower, A Pineapple.—A new plan of life is made necessary as the result of an unexpected inheritance of much wealth.
The following twenty illustrations are photographs of cups which on various occasions have been turned by consultants and interpreted by a seer. The student will find these of much practical value in learning what symbols to look for, and how to discern them clearly as the cup is turned about in the hand.
The divination of each cup should be carefully studied with its illustration; by this means the student will be enabled to grasp the principles upon which to form a judgment of the cup as a whole.
Having mastered this, the knowledge gained can be supplemented by reference to the alphabetical Dictionary of Symbols and Their Meanings in the previous chapter.
To study the illustrations and their descriptions correctly, the former must be turned about and about until each symbol has been identified.
The most noticeable feature of this cup is the clear evidence given that the chief interests of the consultant are bound up in some man in India. That there is delay in receiving important news from him is shown by the symbol of the pigeon on the stone immediately beneath the handle. But that most favourable news may be expected later is certain, for the figure of a man upon an elephant with a pineapple beyond gives proof of this. The natives with the large "P" in conjunction show that the Punjaub is indicated, and this is further emphasised by the sign-post which points towards these symbols. The child's toys show the consultant's association and happiness with children. The figure of the woman seated on the edge of a rock with its curious peak behind her, and the seagull below, suggest that storms at sea will cause distress to some woman known to the consultant. The small figure "11," close to this symbol, points out that it is likely to be eleven days before there is hope of the anxiety being relieved.
[Illustration: FIGURE I]
[Illustration: FIGURE I]
On sides.—Natives on post. Large letter "P." Child's toys. Woman with uplifted hands on curious shaped rock. Small numeral "11" above. Seagull perched on small rock beneath.
In centre.—Pigeon standing on large stone, man in sun helmet on elephant. Sign-post pointing to letter "P."
Near rim and handle.—A pineapple on dish.
This cup shows that a variety of events may be expected, with a fair proportion of pleasure and success to be anticipated from them.
The finger beyond the handle pointing to the ark indicates that in all trials the consultant will find a refuge. The hanging lamp is also a guarantee of coming success, and prosperous undertakings, in some new plan which is under consideration.
The clouds, the symbol of the goat beyond which is facing into the open gateway, signify that an advantageous opportunity, to which a certain amount of risk is attached, awaits the consultant; the prominent figurehead upon the stone pillar gives assurance that all will turn out well, and that there is no need for hesitation in embarking upon this new opportunity; that it will necessitate a removal is shown by the buildings beyond. The quill pen and dots point to the fact that some legal business will be transacted over money affairs.
The dove-cot in the centre, with the form of a widow with dots around, signifies that a benefit to the home may be expected in the future, through a widow. The clergyman in conjunction, holding a paper, shows that the benefit will probably come about through a reconciliation. The bank of clouds behind the ferry boat shows that some trouble, to be expected in the future, will be lightened by the help of good friends. Whilst the bird stationary upon the piece of wood, at some distance from the consultant, and in conjunction with the letter "L," means uncertainty as to some desired information, which should come from someone whose name begins with "L."
[Illustration: FIGURE II]
[Illustration: FIGURE II]
On sides.—Finger. Small ark. Hanging lamp and shade. Large arm-chair. Bank of clouds. Goat. Large open gateway. Curious shaped figurehead upon a stone pillar. Low curved wall and buildings. Small quill pen and dots.
In centre.—Dove-cot. Widow in flowing veil seated in chair. Dots around. Man in clerical hat holding an open paper in his hand.
Near rim.—Shapeless leaves. Small ferry boat on water. Bird standing on log of wood. Letter "L."
The cat with dots around being near the handle indicates financial worry in the home. The bone beyond shows that the misfortunes will be met with courage, and eventually overcome. The cockatoo, with the cauliflower appearing on the opposite side, signifies that an unreliable friend will cause the consultant a little uneasiness, and as a small symbol of a mushroom is beside it, a quarrel with this undesirable friend may be expected.
The pear may be linked to the symbol of the font in the centre of the cup, showing that the consultant may expect news of a birth; the carving indicates that the news will give much satisfaction; the wine-cup, with the leg in conjunction, points out that the ambitions of the consultant will certainly be realised in the future. That a certain amount of waiting will be necessary is shown by the distance from the handle.
The motor boat, and monument in the centre, foretell the successful outcome of a new venture, which at present is unthought-of. The rocks show that a certain amount of mental agitation is aroused by the setting out on this undertaking, but, with the reassuring symbols in this cup, no alarm is necessary.
[Illustration: FIGURE III]
[Illustration: FIGURE III]
On side under handle.—Cat. Scattered dots.
On side.—Bone. Cockatoo upon a stump of wood. Small symbol of a leg. Wine-cup held in hand. Small symbol of a mushroom. Pear. Cauliflower.
On circle under handle.—Curious shaped rocks.
On circle beyond.—Monument.
In centre.—Motor boat. Font. Carved figures.
The symbol of the seal being directly under the handle, with the large arch and carving beyond, show that the consultant will soon enjoy the fulfilment of a long desired hope; everything is going smoothly, and will turn out as desired. The only obstacle is seen in the symbol of the weasel, which appears beyond the seal, pointing to the fact that the consultant has someone who is not to be trusted in the home, but this will not result in anything serious.
The figures of the two women opposite the handle show the arrival of friends to the "house," bringing presents with them. The inkpot, pen, and numeral "7," with the bird's nest in connection, show that happy news, as the result of personal effort on the part of the consultant, may be looked for within seven days.
The rock, motor, and wavy lines being in conjunction, warn the consultant of some forthcoming vexation, and possibly alarm, in connection with a motor expedition, but the episode is in the distance, and will not be more than a passing cloud.
The slug, at the bottom of the cup, predicts a future disturbance with someone, but the matter will be trifling. The large symbol of the king and queen upon the throne, opposite the handle, foretells a future of honour and wealth, and the assurance of every happiness for this fortunate consultant.
[Illustration: FIGURE IV]
[Illustration: FIGURE IV]
Opposite handle on circle.—Two women, inside figure carrying basket, outside figure with parcel under arm.
On sides.—Line of wavy dots. Large rock. Motor. Bird's nest. Pen. Numeral "7." Inkpot.
On circle.—Large arch with carving.
In centre.—Slug. Figures of King and Queen on throne.
Under handle.—Seal. Weasel.
The large rock on the side, with the letter "J" beside it, speaks of a forthcoming vexation or trouble caused by someone whose name begins with "J." The necklace and jewellery beyond, with scattered dots around, give a cheerful assurance to the consultant of coming prosperity. This is further emphasised by the circle of dots above the letter "C" in the centre. As the initial is large, it probably indicates the name of the place from which the source of wealth may be anticipated; and that much happiness will come to the consultant in the future, is shown by the dancing figure and carved figures being in conjunction.
The small basket, the sausage, and roll of bread, with the query and "2" beyond, all point to the fact that the consultant will have little complaints and grumbles to put up with, and there will be some doubt as to which of two people is most to blame. But it will be only a small ripple upon the otherwise smooth surface of the consultant's outlook.
[Illustration: FIGURE V]
[Illustration: FIGURE V]
On sides.—Large rocks. Letter "J" in conjunction. Necklace. Jewellery.
In centre.—Large ornamental "C." Circle of dots above. Figure of girl dancing with arm upraised beneath. Carved figures.
In centre near circle.—Basket. Large sausage with roll of bread in conjunction. Small query. Numeral "2."
The numeral "4," beside the shapeless leaves, and the line leading from this to the flat rock beyond, indicate that in about four days the consultant may expect to meet with obstacles in the way of some prospective outing or pleasure, which will probably fall through.
The corkscrew, with the letter "C" in conjunction, signifies vexatious curiosity as to the consultant's private concerns, on the part of persons whose names begin with these initials. But that it is merely a passing annoyance is shown by the symbol of the arch, and dancing figures above it, and, with the fig tree beyond, foretells the development of things most wished for, and much future happiness and prosperity.
The anvil in the centre, with the branches of a tree in conjunction, suggests that it will be largely owing to the consultant's energy that this hopeful outlook in the future may safely be predicted.
[Illustration: FIGURE VI]
[Illustration: FIGURE VI]
On sides.—Corkscrew. Letter "C." Arch. Dancing figures above. Fig tree.
Near rim.—Shapeless leaves. Numeral "4." Line leading to flat rock.
In centre.—Anvil. Branches of a tree.
Under handle.—Scattered dots.
Although the small symbol of the dagger points towards the consultant, it would not in this case predict a personal danger, as there are no further signs of illness or misfortune. So that it may safely be taken to mean that the consultant will shortly be going to see a friend who has had an operation; this fact is borne out by the short dotted line beyond, leading to the door knocker, under which is written the word "in."
The numeral "7" coming at the end of the dotted line would show that it will probably be seven weeks before this friend recovers from the illness. This friend's name is shown to begin with "L," as that letter is also near the end of the lines.
The more distant signs of a brooch and a cabinet beyond both foretell the unexpected development of good fortune. If the consultant is married, the thimble in the centre would show future changes in the household; that they will be advantageous is shown by the large feather which gives assurance of a prosperous future.
That this may come about through a friend, or lover, is shown by the cigar, and is further emphasised by the large dots beside it.
A warning against extravagance, however, is given to the consultant by the crinoline, which appears amidst these signs of future wealth.
[Illustration: FIGURE VII]
[Illustration: FIGURE VII]
Near rim.—Small dagger. Short dotted line leading to door knocker, with "in" written beneath. Numeral "7." Letter "L." Dots.
On sides near circle.—Group of dots and small symbols showing presents. Brooch. Cabinet.
In centre.—Crinoline. Large feather. Small cigar. Thimble.
Under handle.—Symbols of letters and parcels.
The only definite indication of future prospects is shown by the symbol of the organ, and acorn, upon the circle at the bottom of the cup, the position of these signs showing that hope will not be realised for some time.
But these symbols make the prediction of ultimate success a safe one. Should the consultant be a musician, triumph in the profession would be assured.
The coal scoop and beetle are significant of domestic worries and household cares. But the tea cosy in the centre promises compensation in the way of small comforts and affection.
[Illustration: FIGURE VIII]
[Illustration: FIGURE VIII]
Small symbol of a coal scoop.
On circle.—Organ. Acorn beside it. Beetle.
In centre.—Tea cosy.
This cup would be singularly disappointing from the consultant's point of view, as it is devoid of incident.
The large spray of thistle on the rim indicates an unselfish life of endurance. For the present, there is no sign of a more eventful existence.
The dust-pan, brush, and duster, in the centre, point to future domestic vexations, but the large spray of iris beside it promises a pleasure which will far outbalance the trifling disturbance.
[Illustration: FIGURE IX]
[Illustration: FIGURE IX]
Near rim.—Thistle.
Centre.—Dust-pan and brush. Duster. Large spray of iris.
Under handle.—Shapeless leaves.
The most striking features of this cup are the various indications of pleasure and social enjoyment. These being shown by the cake and butterfly, while the orchid in conjunction predicts that the consultant's personal charm and power of attraction will result in a future of wealth and social distinction.
The pillar, near the rim and handle, gives a pleasing assurance of security and loyal friends. The bird flying from the cage brings joyful news, that something which has been an obstacle in the way of the consultant's desires is about to be removed, and much future happiness may be looked for.
The figure of the man fishing from a rock foreshows the arrival of a visitor, who will have some pleasant news to tell.
The toque opposite the handle, but at the bottom of the cup, gives further evidence of the good luck coming to this fortunate consultant.
[Illustration: FIGURE X]
[Illustration: FIGURE X]
Near rim.—Small stone pillar. Cake on dish. Man on rock fishing.
On sides.—Bird cage, small bird flying from it.
On circle.—Butterfly. Lady's hat.
In centre.—Orchid with long stalk.
Under handle.—Shapeless leaves.
This cup indicates that the consultant is apt to be ruffled by trifles and to become upset by anything unexpected. As, for instance, in the case of the arrival of visitors, shown by the mass of leaves and chair. The query beside it shows the indecision of the consultant's mind as to necessary arrangements. The boots on the opposite side denote that lack of income will not trouble the consultant.
But that there is some misfortune or hindrance in the future is shown by the symbol of the broken cross in the bottom of the cup; the head and shoulders of the woman beside it suggest that this trouble will be caused by a woman. Compensation will be found in the happy love affair, which is clearly predicted by the cherries, the figures of the man and woman embracing, and the man's hat and pipe.
Large dots signify that wealth will be added to happiness. This event must not be expected for some months, as the symbols are in the bottom of the cup.
The letter "N" with the dots and small tree beyond show an immediate pleasant happening, in connection with a person whose name begins with that letter.
[Illustration: FIGURE XI]
[Illustration: FIGURE XI]
Near rim.—Mass of leaves. Stones.
On sides.—Chair. Query. Two boots.
On circle.—Figure of man and woman embracing. Small bunch of cherries beneath. Several dots. Man's hat and pipe in conjunction.
In centre.—Broken cross. Head and shoulders of woman.
Under handle.—Letter "N." Small tree beyond.