When a learner can infallibly distinguish from each other the letters b
and q, d and p, n and u, and l and I, he may be allowed to distribute
type for himself.
The head of the page being turned toward him, the learner sets a
composing-rule behind the portion to be lifted, and then, placing his
thumbs against the rule and his forefingers against the top line, while
his remaining fingers press together both sides, he raises the matter
quickly. Then, inclining sidewise his right hand, he removes the left,
and allows the matter to balance momentarily in his right, while he
doubles in the third finger and stretches out the thumb of the left for
the reception of the matter, which he at once places in it, the rule
lying as a support on the third finger, while the thumb and other fingers
embrace the sides. He should take up but a few lines at a time, until he
acquires facility in lifting. Large handfuls should always be avoided, as
the weight is fatiguing and weakening to the wrist.
Keeping the handful in an inclined position, so that he may readily
read the lines, he takes up as many letters as he can conveniently hold
between his fingers,—an entire word, if practicable,—and drops the types
slantingly, but with face upward, into the several boxes.
The first aim of the learner must be accuracy, even though his progress
be slow. Correct distribution aids in clean composition. In time he will
be able to drop his types rapidly, with hardly a glance at the boxes;
and, while his fingers are flying about correctly and expeditiously, his
eyes will take in the next word to be distributed; thus proceeding till
the case is filled.
In distributing, the utmost care should be taken in placing the various
spaces in their appropriate boxes. A mixing of spaces characterizes the
botch.
The letter-board should always be kept clean, and the bottom as well as
the face of the form well washed before it is laid on the board and
unlocked; for, if any dirt remain in the type after the form is unlocked,
it will sink into the matter. This precaution taken, the pages should be
well opened, and the whole form washed till the water appears to run from
it in a clean state. If the form is very dirty, it is best to lock it up
again and rinse the bottom of it, and proceed as before.
It is sometimes necessary to dry the letter at the fire after
distributing. In this case, the type should not be used until it is
perfectly cold, as very pernicious effects arise from the antimony in
the composition of which the type is made. The noxious vapour which
arises is sufficient warning of the effects. The compositor ought always
to avoid it as a pestilence which will affect his respiration and his
sinews, inducing lung-complaints, and causing paralysis of the hand or
contraction of the fingers. Where it can be conveniently managed, it is
better to distribute at night, or before meals, so that the letter may
dry without artificial heat.