One issue, of course, is whether tarot, palm, tealeaf and entrail reading is any more than a tax on gullibility. (Personally, I am prepared to put complete faith in the first such system that can give me all six numbers - plus bonus - in two successive lotto draws.) A more reasonable expectation might be to say that by putting forward scenarios these methods raise questions that help us to think more clearly about how we live our lives.

The publishers, unsurprisingly, seem to be true believers. In the release promoting the disk we are told that it "not only gives a fascinating insight into both astrology and tarot from an expert in both fields; it is not just a cost-effective and authoritative Fortune Telling tool, it explains some of the heritage and theories behind this compelling ancient art . . ."

Whatever about "authoritative" - no luck with the lotto numbers so far, by the way - another of the promotional claims is certainly true; it is easy to use. The program walked off the CD-Rom via a quick installation process and was transparently easy to use thereafter. The card designs are attractive and the process of choosing a base card, then a layout for the reading, and stepping through the reading itself could not be simpler.

The readings themselves have the familiar tone of generalities posing as specifics. "Be careful of animals in January" and "There will be too many demands on you this week. Put your foot down and show who's boss," are fairly typical. For those who want the advice, this is an easy and stylish way of getting it.