In some of the methods of fortune-telling by cards it is essential to have a special card as the representative of the party seeking the response of the oracle. This is commonly called the "Consultant." If there is a joker in your pack, or an extra blank card, as is the case in many packs, use one of them as the Consultant, marking this card to show which is its top, as its reversal has its own signification. If there is neither joker nor blank card, use the discarded deuce of either suit in the pack, with a mark at its top end. THE ANCIENT ORACLE Various meanings have been ascribed to the individual cards in different countries and times, several lists of which, and they the known standards of the art, are given throughout this book. The first list of interpretations that we present is from a very ancient work, first published in 1600 or a little later. This, it will be noticed, defines the entire fifty-two cards of the pack and has no separate signification for any card being upright or reversed; in either position the cards' meanings are the same. Suit values are as follows: Clubs lead and mostly portend happiness and good business arrangements, and no matter how numerous or how accompanied by cards of other suits are seldom considered as bearers of other than the very best augury. Next comes hearts, which are usually taken to signify love-making, invitations, and good friends; diamonds, money; and spades, annoyances, sickness or worry, sometimes loss of money. _Clubs._ Ace--Great wealth, much prosperity, and tranquillity of mind. King--A man who is humane, upright and affectionate; faithful in all his undertakings. He will be happy himself, and make every one around him so. Queen--A tender, mild and rather susceptible woman, who will be very attractive to the opposite sex. Jack--An open, sincere and good friend, who will exert himself warmly in your welfare. Ten--Speedy wealth. Nine--Obstinacy and disagreeables connected therewith. Eight--A covetous person, extremely fond of money; that he will obtain it but not make a proper use of it. Seven--The most brilliant fortune and the most exquisite bliss this world can afford, but beware of the opposite sex, from these alone can misfortune be experienced. Six--A lucrative partnership. Five--Marriage to a person who will improve your circumstances. Four--Inconstancy and change. Trey--Three wealthy marriages. Deuce--Opposition or disappointment. _Diamonds._ Ace--A letter. King--A man of fiery temper, continued anger, seeking revenge, and obstinate in his resolutions. Queen--A coquette, and fond of company. Jack--However nearly related, will look more to his own interest than yours, will be tenacious in his own opinions, and fly off if contradicted. Ten--A country husband (or wife), with wealth, and many children; also a purse of gold. Nine--A surprise about money.