CHAP. 84.—PROGNOSTICS DERIVED FROM FIRE KINDLED BY MAN.
Next to these are the prognostics that are derived from fire
kindled upon the earth. [Note] If the flames are pallid, and emit a
murmuring noise, they are considered to presage stormy
weather; and fungi upon the burning wick of the lamp are a
sign of rain. [Note] If the flame is spiral and flickering, it is an
indication of wind, and the same is the case when the lamp goes
out of itself, or is lighted with difficulty. So, too, if the snuff
hangs down, and sparks gather upon it, or if the burning coals
adhere [Note] to vessels taken from off the fire, or if the fire, when
covered up, sends out hot embers or emits sparks, or if the cinders
gather into a mass upon the hearth, or the coals burn
bright and glowing.
