The narrator does not explain how the protagonist became an astrologer in spite of not having been trained in that ancient pseudo-science and even in spite of the fact that he has no belief in its principles. It seems likely that he found the paraphernalia of an astrologer who had given up the profession or died of starvation because he lacked the protagonist's moxie. The present owner of the cowrie shells and other insignias has thus probably become an astrologer by default. He has had to learn all his profession by trial and error. His naive customers have given him plenty of opportunities to test his insights by the questions they ask and their reactions to his answers. He has learned by experience that most people are essentially alike in having the same personal problems and questions about the past, present and future. For example:
"In many ways you are not getting the fullest results for your efforts."
"Is there any woman in your family, maybe even a distant relative, who is not well disposed towards you?"
"Most of your troubles are due to your nature. How can you be otherwise with Saturn where he is? You have an impetuous nature and a rough exterior."
The question about Saturn is amusing because the astrologer has no idea where Saturn currently is or what it would mean wherever he might be.
The astrologer has learned not to offer any advice until he has gotten his customer to do all the talking long enough for him to pick up useful information.
He charged three pies per question, never opened his mouth till the other had spoken for at least ten minutes, which provided him enough stuff for a dozen answers and advices.
He has become adapt at working under pressure, usually with a crowd of gaping men, women and children watching him. When Guru Nayak becomes his last customer for the night, the astrologer is able to handle him although he is tired after a long day and is now in danger of being murdered. Fortunately for him, he is able to amaze Guru Nayak with apparently supernatural knowledge. He even knows his customer's name and the name of his native village. The reasons why, of course, become apparent at the end of the story.
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