This organ induces the mind to contemplate the future with high
anticipations of being able to realize whatever the other feelings
desire. It thus causes us to be gay and cheerful, and to preserve the
equanimity of our temper amidst difficulties and misfortune. Those
who are destitute of it are prone to disobedience. Their ideas of the
future are always dark and gloomy.
Predominant.--With Hope predominant, an individual is constantly
revelling in the bright prospects of the future. He will be so sanguine
of success, that he will neglect the means by which success can be
attained. He will be credulous and visionary in all his enterprises and
undertakings.
Large.--With Hope large, one always views the future with bright
anticipations. If Caution and Causality are large, he will never
be carried away by his expectations, but will pursue generally a
prudent course, and not allow his hopes to hurry him into imprudent
measures. If Combativeness, Firmness, Self-esteem and Ideality are
large, he will be bold, speculative and enterprising; and if Caution
is small, will be excessively rash, precipitate and imprudent, often
attempting undertakings which to the less sanguine appear impossible.
With this combination, he will never be cast down or discouraged; the
vicissitudes of fortune have no power to repress his energy or restrain
his enterprise.
Moderate.--With Hope moderate, one’s expectations will be sanguine,
but not immoderately so. If Firmness, Self-esteem, Combativeness and
Destructiveness are large, he will attempt important undertakings,
and count with much certainty and pleasure their chances of success.
If Cautiousness is large, he will despond much more than hope, will
never attempt enterprises, unless their chances of success are almost
certain; will expect too little, rather than too much, and will not be
sanguine or cheerful.
Small.--With Hope small, a person will be constantly low spirited and
melancholy. The brightest prospects can hardly excite his spirits. He
will dwell perpetually upon the dark side of appearances, and will want
enterprise and spirit.