There are numerous records in the Victorian newspapers that show how colourful life was in the Victorian East End in the latter half of the 19th century.
The Tamworth Herald, in its edition of Saturday the 6th of February 1886, carried the following story about the escapades of a local fortune teller.
And before anyone says it, let me get in there first, you’d have thought she would have seen it coming!
CHARGE OF FORTUNE TELLING
Emily Rachael Howie, described as a needlewoman, of 18, Stretfield Street, St. George’s; and Antonia Speal, married, of 27, Providence Street, St. George’s, were charged at the Thames Police Court, London, with fortune telling.
Ellen Moore, a cook, living at 78, Leman Street, Whitechapel, said that on Saturday, the 23rd ult., she went to the prisoner Howie’s house in Stretfield Street, accompanied by a friend named Wood.
Howie came to the door and asked what they wanted, as she was afraid of seeing strangers.
A PACK OF CARDS
She then referred to a book (produced), and asked the witness her age.
On telling her she had a pack of cards, she placed them on her lap, and told the witness to cut them into three portions.
The witness did so.
SHE TOLD HER FORTUNE
The prisoner then spread the cards out, and told her that she had seen plenty of trouble, but would not see any more.
She also said that the witness had a dark woman who was an enemy, and she would have money from abroad.
The accused also told the witness that she would marry, and by that means have a rise in life and overlook all her enemies.
The witness then asked her the charge, and she replied sixpence. She paid her that amount.
HER FRIEND’S FORTUNE TOLD
Her friend then had her fortune told, and the prisoner told her she had a young man abroad, and that he would be home sooner than expected.
The prisoner also told her that by the time she got leave she would find a letter awaiting her, which contained money.
SENT THERE BY THE POLICE
The witness was sent by Detective Sergeant Stephen White.
The prisoner:- “I did not extort money. I am reduced in circumstances. I acknowledge that I have cut cards for ladies. The witness importuned me.”
ARRESTED AT HER HOUSE
Detective Sergeant Stephen White said that he arrested the prisoner at her house.
The street-door was open, and looking into the room he saw the prisoner seated at a table with the book and a pack of cards.
A young lady was seated in the room.
INTO ABBERLINE’S HANDS
As soon as she saw the witness she tried to pass the cards over her shoulder, but they went into Inspector Abberline’s hands.
The lady said that she was having her fortune told.
Mr. Lushington sentenced each of the prisoners to three months’ hard labour.