Description: Published as part of the first report of the Bureau of American Ethnology, this fascinating, wide-ranging study begins with theories and observations about the genesis and universality of sign language and its use by animals, children, and uninstructed deaf-mutes. Following an account of his research methodology and suggestions for further research, the author devotes about 75 pages to describing and illustrating the signs used for specific words -- from "antelope" to "yes" -- plus phrases and sentences such as "I will see you here after next year." or "You gave us many clothes, but we don't want them." Most interesting of all are 40 pages or so of narratives or dialogues, most given both in sign language and in oral paraphrase. Throughout, the numerous illustrations make clear the precise disposition of the body and movements of the hands for signing.

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