Let me prove my power, so that even the most resolute skeptic dare doubt no longer.

Judge of my skill to read the future by my ability in reading the past.

I have come here--I have taken a long journey to look into the future of your new-born son.

Before I begin, let me look into the past of his father.
Sir Jasper Kingsland, let me read your palm." But Sir Jasper drew back.
"You have taken a long journey to look into the future of my son?
Pray, what is my son to you ?" "That is my secret, Sir Jasper, and my secrets I keep.

Come, hold forth your hand, and test my skill." "Why should I?
Even if you can bring before me my past life, of what use will it be, since I must know all better than you ?" "My power to read the past may prove my power to read the future." "Nay, you may easily know the past, without magical skill.