Page:Shetland Folk-Lore - Spence - 1899.pdf/229



A brand standing by itself in the fire was called a guest; a smoking brand betokened an unwelcome guest, while a bright brand meant a friend. The coming of the unwelcome guest might be prevented by pouring water on the brand, but care was needed lest the act should bring misfortune on a friend, who might fall into a mire or burn.

A greedy, grasping, overreaching nature is referred to in the following: