This is a very intriguing form of card consultation, requiring three deals, which some cartomancers interpret in terms of past, present, and future, but which can be made into a general reading quite as effectively. This, as with all such auguries, depends much on the mood of the consultant and whatever questions he or she may want answered.

Briefly, the pack is dealt into five rows of face-up cards, nine to each, with an added row of seven. The consultant’s appropriate card, which is decided upon beforehand, is then located and a count begun from it, toward the right of the row in which it appears. Reaching the end of that row, you move to the row below and continue the count to the left.

The ninth card thus reached is duly interpreted. The count then is resumed toward the left of that row, continuing to the right in the row below, to reach another ninth card. This continues, stopping on every ninth card, and upon reaching the bottom row you simply go up to the top and continue the zigzag process there.

This means an interpretation of six cards in all—or, in some cases, only five. So the pack is gathered, shuffled, and dealt again for further interpretation in the same fashion. That is done a third time, thus completing what is usually a very satisfactory reading. Always, the consultant’s card is the starting point and you count with the first card to the right, going left on the row below.

Here are three sample Layouts and their readings, with the Q D as the consultants card:

First Layout:

Counting right from the Q D and then left in the row below, the ninth card (4 C) shows misfortune or failure of plans through indifference of false friends. Continuing left, then right along the bottom row, up to the extreme right of the top row, a count of nine ends on the 3 D, showing disputes at home, or in business, probably attributable to that influence.

Another count of nine reveals a likely source of the trouble (J D) as a selfish person—possibly a jealous relative or unreliable friend—who may bring bad news. This is specially applicable with a woman as consultant. Nine to the right along the second row and down to the third produces a romantic angle (2 D)) which may prove to be more serious than it appears.

Counting nine to the left and down to the next row, the 3 H shows an impetuous action on the part of the consultant which may have brought this all about, or which promises immediate trouble. The main point is, don’t blame other people for conditions which can be improved through personal attention. Once the factors are recognized, the consultant should be able to control them through calm, intelligent procedure. There is no further count of nine as the Q D interrupts it.

Second Layout

Starting to the right from the Q H, a count of nine reaches the K C, who may be a tall, dark, and possibly handsome man, but is just as apt to be simply a good adviser. At any rate, the consultant should trust his judgment and sincerity. This is necessary toward prosperity (5 D) whether in social or financial affairs, so the consultant should make sure of the person indicated.

That is because misunderstandings loom (7 S) at home or at work, and all friction should therefore be avoided. It is very helpful to have the right person available in this situation where high hopes are in the balance. Another count of nine shows that money is involved (10 C) and that collecting it may prove a problem; in fact, it may be wiser to forget it.

This is confirmed by continuing the count to the 6 S, which indicates discouragement through frustrated plans. Its promise of eventual success goes with the helpful friend (K C) and the prosperous sign (5 D), which should be played to the full against the baleful indication of the 7 S. No more cards are involved as the count comes to the Q H.

Third Layout

From the consultant’s Q H, she is immediately confronted by indecision (5 H), even with an urge to get away from things. Another count of nine (left along the top line and right along the second) reveals the probable source of trouble, the A S, which signifies bad news and often the presentiment of some misfortune.

A change of surroundings (8 D) and a possible journey may change this. Here, the application of the card depends greatly on the consultant’s age, circumstance, and any existing problem. It may be helped by the next ninth card (8 H), with its promise of a pleasant event with a happy outcome, but the consultant should be cautious where matrimony is concerned, as the count ends on the 6 D.