When copy is put into the hands of the compositor, he should receive
directions respecting the width and length of the page; whether it is
to be leaded, and with white lines between the breaks; and whether
any particular method is to be followed in the punctuation and in the
adoption of capitals. These instructions being given, the compositor
will make his measure to the number of ems directed, which is done by
laying them flatwise in the composing-stick, and then screwing it up
sufficiently tight to prevent the slide from moving. He then fits a
composing-rule to the measure, and, his case being supplied with letter,
he commences his work.
The left hand, which contains the composing-stick, should always follow
the right, which takes up the letters. If the left be kept stationary,
considerable time is lost in bringing each letter to the stick, because
the right hand has, consequently, to traverse a much greater space
than is necessary. The eye should always precede the hand, constantly
seeking for the next letter while the fingers are picking up one just
selected. Each letter should be taken up by the upper end. This method
will effectually prevent any false motion, and preclude the necessity
of turning the letter when in the hand. If possible, a sentence of the
copy should be taken at one time, and, while putting in the point and
quadrate at the end of the sentence, the eye may revert to the copy for
the next. It is to dexterity in these particulars that compositors are
indebted for swiftness. The time thus gained is very considerable, while
all appearance of bustle or fatigue is avoided. By taking a sentence into
the memory at one time, the connection of the subject is preserved, and
the punctuation rendered less difficult.
Those who are careful in distribution find the advantage of it in
composition. Foul or slovenly workmanship is disgraceful. To avoid this,
a compositor should accustom himself to glance over each line as he
justifies it, and correct any error as he proceeds, which he may do with
little impediment to his progress.