This dance, as will be clearly seen from the Notation (_see_ p. 75),
serves as illustration of the national method of settling quarrels--by a
bout of fisticuffs. All the dances are typical of the race; this one is
of course singularly so. Where boys are found disposed to look favourably
upon the Morris dance, "How d'ye do" may be recommended as the very best
to encourage the tendency in them. There is a spice of wholesome
rowdiness in the spirit of the dance that will not fail to make itself
known and beloved of boys. Besides, the shaking of hands before the
fight, the squaring-up for war, and the reconciliation, can only be given
the right robustious ring and defiance by the fighting sex. Another most
engaging feature of "How d'ye do," is that the notes fitting these words,
as will be found, are sung in every instance by the dancers, before,
during and after the encounter. There is plenty of room, there, for a
different sounding of the phrase: for making it ring of challenge, and
strife, and victory--also of honourable defeat, after lusty strokes have
been dealt and taken: the next best thing to a win--sometimes even a
better thing.
The following instructions for the dancing of "How d'ye do" must be noted
in connection with the Notation (_see_ p. 75).
The phrase "How d'ye do" is always sung, by all the couples, as marked
and played in music "B." Opposite pairs advance as shown. They should
meet together in the centre on the word "do," and shake hands, or square
up for the fight, according to instructions.
Having joined hands, or squared, and paused in the centre, the first two
pairs (Nos. 1 and 6, and 2 and 5) break away immediately after pause, and
back briskly to their places, making room for the next pair. There is no
changing of corners in this dance.
The last pair (Nos. 3 and 4) remain in position, holding hands or
squaring up, during pause in music, and still remain in the attitude
while bars 4 and 5 of "B" are played. During these bars all the other
dancers stand still.
When the music strikes into "A" section, all take part according to
instructions. Nos. 8 and 4 loose or lower hands immediately the "A" music
starts, and take their place and part with the others.