Young women were advised to gather…….'a key, a ring, a flower, a sprig of willow, a small piece of cake, a crust of bread, 10 of clubs, 9 of hearts, ace of spades, and ace of diamonds.' They were told to wrap these in a handkerchief and place it under their pillow, and to say, upon going to bed, the opening lines of my poem.
LUNATIC HARVEST
"Luna, every woman's friend,
To me thy goodness condescend.
Let me this night in visions see,
Emblems of my destiny."
I have gathered the gifts required.
They will lie, when I've retired,
Under my pillow safe and sure
Held in a handkerchief, secure.
The Harvest Moon will float above
Bringing glorious dreams of love.
The ace of Diamonds or the Ring
Are sure romantic thoughts to bring.
But if I dream of Cake or Bread
There'll be successful work instead.
Flowers portend domestic joys.
Birds? Many children, girls and boys.
Diamonds mean money, Keys great power.
Dream of Storms? A torrential shower.
The ten of Clubs means life abroad,
Willow means love goes overboard.
Dream of Geese I'll marry twice.
But the ace of Spades is not too nice!
It stands for Death so I fear the warning:
I may not be alive by morning!
All this leads me a merry dance!
I'd rather leave the lot to chance!"
