I use a plug-in tester which will indicate a variety of problems. The first thing that comes to mind is a loose neutral, if you have normal voltage after the fuse (never believe a visual inspection of a fuse). In a six fuse house you could also have a wire blown open if someone over-fused. The toner will help locate any opens in the circuit.
In a six fuse house around here the wiring would likely come from a small pan junction in the ceiling down to the outlets (1940s?).
Dave
