This is to be tried on the third day of the months between September and
March. Let any number of young women (not exceeding nine, and minding that
there is an odd one in the company) assemble together, and each string
nine acorns on a separate string, or as many acorns as there are females
in company, but not more; wrap them around a long stick of wood, and place
it in the fire just as the clock strikes twelve at night. Say not a word,
but sit around the fire till all the acorns are consumed; then rake out
the ashes and retire to bed almost directly, repeating:
May love and marriage be the theme,
To visit me in this night’s dream:
Gentle Venus be my friend,
The image of my lover send.
Let me see his form and face,
And his occupation trace;
By a symbol or a sign,
Cupid, forward my design.