Looking Into The Future

Will Goldston, a stage magician, compiled this little collection of introductions to various occult subjects. Other authors credited are a Professor Ralph Darius, who advertises as an astrologer in the booklet's ad section, and an Eileen Elycé. Subjects concerned are crystal gazing, astrology, palmistry, planchettes (a sort of precursor to the ouija board of the 20th century), and séances. Following this is an "experiences" section containing various accounts regarding ghosts, clairvoyance, floating furniture, and other phenomena. Also included are a list of meeting places for spiritualists and the requisite advertisements. Many starter-kit spiritualism guides can be found from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but this one is at least a little notable for its delightful illustrations, such as palmistry diagrams, an archway of the zodiac signs, and a housecat standing on her hind legs to inspect a crystal ball.