American Pocket Library of Useful Knowledge/Alphabet for the Deaf and Dumb
DACTYLOLOGY, (Finger Talking,)
OR
ALPHABET FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB.
This Alphabet explains itself. Half an hour is sufficient to acquire a knowledge of it, and short practice will give ease and rapidity. It may be made a means of amusement, and occasionally of real service; while to none can it be without interest. The first attempt at instructing the Deaf and Dumb was made by a Spanish monk, who died in 1584. More has been done for them in the United States than in any other country.
Note.–J and Z are figured in the air; J with the little finger, and Z with the fore finger. Significant gestures often express whole sentences, and by means of the Manual Alphabet all the words and phrases of conversation can be expressed. The words should be separated, either by a slight pause, or a horizontal motion of the hand from right to left, or a snap of the fingers.
