Page:The-sign-language-a-manual-of-signs-2nd-ed.djvu/81

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A MANUAL OF SIGNS
65

of leather; bend the ends of the fingers and draw them away from each other as if they were drawing back the thread. XI, 222. Or,

(2) Make sign for "shoe," thus: Push right "&" hand into the partly closed left hand, and sign for "maker."

Tailor.—Make motion of sewing and add "-er."

Dressmaker.—Sign first for "female;" then rub the hands lightly downward against the body several times, indicating its covering, for "dress;" then add sign for "maker."

Merchant.—"Seller." Indicate the kind of merchant by sign for what he sells and add "seller." Thus, grocery-man is literally "sugar seller" or "seller of sugar, food, etc."

Build.—Build up the hands by placing the palm of one on back of other, like laying bricks, repeating the motion with each hand alternately several times, raising them during the action.

Artist.—Sign for "draw;" using the hand as a rest and the little finger as a brush, make motion of drawing, then add "-er." Or,

(2) Using both little fingers as brushes, holding them opposite, make motion (in the air) of drawing, adding "-er."

Farmer.—Sign for "farm," i. e., bring the left arm up against the breast, "A" hand near left shoulder. Rub the arm near the elbow with the right open hand in a circular motion. Add "-er." XI, 223.

Blacksmith.—Pound the forefinger of the left "G" hand with the right "S" (little finger end); add "-er."

Doctor.—Place the forefinger of "D" right hand on the pulse of the left hand and add "-er."

Nurse.—Same, but use "N" instead of "D."

Surveyor.—Hold the hands as if they were adjusting a surveyor's instrument in front of you; make motion of sighting and measuring along; add "-er."

Secretary.—Reach up the right hand as if to take an imaginary pen from behind the ear; bring it down and make motion of writing; add "-er." XI, 224.

Treasurer.—Sign "money keeper."

President.—Reach the "C" hands up at either side of the head and grasp imaginary horns, carrying both "S"' hands out simultaneously; then sign "rule over" thus: bring left hand down, thumb toward breast; open the right hand and