Salutations

Lady’s curtsey. A relic of the ancient custom of women going on the knee to men of rank and power, originally to beg mercy, afterwards to acknowledge superiority.

Taking off the hat. A relic of the ancient custom of taking off the helmet when no danger is nigh. A man takes off his hat to show that he dares stand unarmed in your presence.

Discharging guns as a salute. To show that no fear exists, and therefore no guns will be required. This is like “burying the hatchet” (q.v.).

Presenting arms—i.e. offering to give them up, from the full persuasion of the peaceful and friendly disposition of the person so honoured.

Lowering swords. To express a willingness to put yourself unarmed in the power of the person saluted, from a full persuasion of his friendly feeling.