Page:Weird Tales volume 36 number 02.djvu/45

 AND TABOOS by Weill

When a ladder leans against the wall, it forms a triangle and is thus symbolical of the Trinity! The ordinary layman of olden days would therefore consider himself debarred from passing through this sacred arch. Should one be compelled to pass under a ladder, all will be well if the fingers are crossed.

Natives of Dutch New Guinea place a spade upon the grave of a departed friend or relative, so that if the corpse regains it soul and comes to life again, it can dig itself out...