The gestures, to be indicated by corrected positions of arms and by dotted lines showing the motion from the initial to the final positions (which, are severally marked by an arrow-head and a cross—­see EXAMPLES), will always be shown as they appear to an observer facing the gesturer, the front outline, Fig. 340, or side, Fig. 341, or both, being used as most convenient.  The special positions of hands and fingers will be designated by reference to the TYPES OF HAND POSITIONS.  For brevity in the written description, “hand” may be used for “right hand,” when that one alone is employed in any particular gesture.  When more convenient to use the profile figure in which the right arm is exhibited for a gesture actually made by the left hand and arm it can be done, the fact, however, being noted.

[Illustration:  Fig. 340.]

[Illustration:  Fig. 341.]

In cases where the conception or origin of any sign is ascertained or suggested it should be annexed to the description, and when obtained from the gesturer will be so stated affirmatively, otherwise it will be considered to be presented by the observer.  The graphic illustration of associated facial expression or bodily posture which may accentuate or qualify a gesture is necessarily left to the ingenuity of the contributor.

ORDER OF ARRANGEMENT.

The following order of arrangement for written descriptions is suggested.  The use of a separate sheet or part sheet of paper for each sign described and illustrated would be convenient in the collation.  It should always be affirmatively stated whether the “conception or origin” of the sign was procured from the sign-maker, or is suggested or inferred by the observer.

Word or idea expressed by Sign:  __________________

  DESCRIPTION: 

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  CONCEPTION OR ORIGIN: 
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Tribe:  ________________________________
Locality:______________________________
Date:  _____________________ 188_.
__________________________
Observer.
TYPES OF HAND POSITIONS IN SIGN LANGUAGE.
[Illustration:  A—­Fist, palm outward,
horizontal.]
[Illustration:  B—­Fist, back outward,
oblique upward.]
[Illustration:  C—­Clinched, with thumb
extended against forefinger, upright, edge outward.]
[Illustration:  D—­Clinched, ball of
thumb against middle of forefinger, oblique, upward,
palm down.]
[Illustration:  E—­Hooked, thumb against
end of forefinger, upright, edge outward.]
[Illustration:  F—­Hooked, thumb against
side of forefinger, oblique, palm outward.]