Poppy Seeds

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Poppy Seeds

Divination by smoke was sometimes practiced by magicians. A few jasmine or poppy seeds were flung upon burning coals; if the smoke rose lightly and ascended, straight into the heavens, it augured well; but if it hung about it was regarded as a bad omen. In parts of Europe, a pregnant woman would place poppy seeds on a window sill if she wanted a boy; sugar if she wanted a girl.

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