Such are the Morris step and jump; the jump never varies; the step does vary as to height, length and vigour of stride, as will presently be noted.  It must, however, constantly be borne in mind that, high or low, there is always sturdiness in the Morris step; to Morris-men the languorous and the lackadaisical are for ever unknown.

For the purposes of compiling a notation, we have classified the steps necessary to the dances described into two, as follows:—­

In the step most commonly used the raised foot is thrust forward only so far that, when the leg is straightened to the kick, the forward heel is roughly the length of the dancer’s foot in advance of the toe of the rear or supporting foot.  This step, it must be remembered, will be used always, except when specific instructions are given to make it higher or lower.

In the high step, used chiefly in the figures called “Capers” (see p. 50), the dancer must, if his activity will allow of it, raise the forward foot until its toe is as high as the knee of the rear or supporting leg.  It is an exercise not to be attempted all at once in its completeness, because it is one well calculated to send the inexperienced enthusiast sprawling on his back.  Its study should be approached gently, by way of familiarity with the simpler movement, which, once it is mastered, may easily be extended to the harder one.  The latter must be approached with caution—­that is all.  And the novice is to bear constantly in mind that, in the matter of vigour, he simply cannot put too much of it into his Capers.  There will be little trouble about his remembering that, however; the Morris Caper-music will not let him forget it for a moment.

This step is called in the Notation—­High.

It has always to be remembered that in Morris dancing, unless definite instructions be given to the contrary, every movement or part of a movement is begun by stepping out with the right foot.

DIAGRAMS OF MORRIS STEPS.

WITH NOTATION MARKS ADDED.

Steps used in 4-time music (whether simple or compound).  The letters R and L signify right or left foot.

[Illustration:  BEATS 1 2 3 4

STEPS R L R L]

This is called in the Notation—­4/1.

[Illustration:  BEATS 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

STEPS R R L L R R L L]

This is called in the Notation—­4/2.

[Illustration:  BEATS 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

STEPS R L R R L R L L]

This is called in the Notation—­4/3.

[Illustration:  BEATS 1 2 3 4 1 2 3 4

STEPS R R R R L L L L]

This is called in the Notation—­4/4.

STEPS USED IN 6-TIME (i.e., COMPOUND 2).

WITH NOTATION MARKS ADDED.

[Illustration:  BEATS 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 5 6

STEPS R L R L]

This is called in the Notation—­6/1.