A pack of thirty-two selected cards is shuffled and cut, the
consultant wishing all the time. They are laid out in two rows of four
each, face downwards. When two pairs come up, they must be covered by
the cards held in the dealer's hand. Should it be possible to cover
each pair--such as two kings, two queens, etc., it is supposed that
the wish will be granted. If the cards do not pair easily, it is said
the wish will not come to pass, or, at any rate, not for a long
period.
The following is taken to show whether the wish will be granted: The
cards are well shuffled, the consultant keeping his thoughts all the
time fixed upon whatever wish he may have formed; the cards are cut
once, and the card cut is noted; they are shuffled again and dealt out
into three parcels--each of these being examined in turn, and if it is
found that the card turned up next, either the one representing the
dealer or the person who is consulting him--the ace of hearts or the
nine of hearts, it is said that the wish will be granted. If it be in
the same parcel with any of these, without being next to them, it is
supposed there is a chance of the wish coming to pass at some more
distant period; but if the nine of spades makes its appearance, it is
taken that a disappointment is possible.