Page:Primary Lessons In Swatow Grammar.djvu/126

106 Analogous to the preceding, is a species of sign language which is extensively used. This, by some, is called, chhiú-gṳ́, hand talk. A man is said to use hand talk, ēng-chhiú-gṳ́; or, to use his hand to make signs, ēng-chhiú lâi-pí.

The thumb held up, signifies, number one; the best; important.

The little finger held up, signifies, the least; insignificant.

The fore-finger stroking along the mouth, signifies, eating.

The fore-finger stroking along the head, signifies, getting shaved.

Three fingers closed, the thumb and the little finger held up and on a level, signifies, asleep.

Three fingers closed, the thumb up, and the little finger horizontal, signifies, sitting down.

Two, three, or more fingers held up, signifies, counting.

Three fingers closed, the little finger placed on the table, and the thumb brought gradually down to the surface, signifies, submission; homage; obeisance; truculence.

The hand stretched out, palm downwards, and fingers moving towards the body, signifies, beckoning to come.

The same motion with the palm upward, indicates, begging, or asking for money, or bribes.

The fore-finger held up and curved, signifies, death.

The hand drawn across the throat, signifies, decapitation.

The hand slipped behind or down by the side, signifies, money taking; bribery.