OFFICERS’ SALUTE.
The Officers to be formed in line at four paces distant from each other, “Standing at ease” with the point of the sword lowered between the feet, the edge to the right, and left hand covering the right.
Attention—Carry swords.
Rear Rank take open Order—“Recover swords” and move forward an oblique pace to the left, so as to be placed in front, and just clear of the second File.
March—Advance three paces to the front, and bring the sword to the “Port,” the blade being diagonally across the body, the edge upwards, and arms nearly extended; the left elbow bent with the hand as high, and in front of the shoulder; holding the blade between the forefinger and thumb, the knuckles to the front, and elbows close to the side.
Present Arms—“Recover swords” at the second motion of the carbine; and at the third motion lower the sword (to the full extent of the arm) to the right, with the edge to the left, and point in the direction of the right foot, the elbow close to the side, at the same time raising the left arm as high as the shoulder, and bringing the hand round by a circular motion over the peak of the cap, the knuckles uppermost, and fingers extended.
Shoulder Arms—“Recover swords” at the first motion of the carbine; and at the second motion “Port swords.”
Rear Rank take close Order—“Right face;” and as the right foot is drawn to the rear, “Recover swords.”
March—Move back into the front Rank. “Front” and “Carry swords.”
The Salute on the march is to commence when at ten paces from the Reviewing officer, the Officer on the right giving the signal to prepare the other Officers by raising the fingers of the left hand two paces, previous to saluting; the sword is then raised by extending the arm to the right, and by a circular motion brought to the “Recover;” and continuing the motion to the right shoulder, from whence the sword is lowered, and the left hand is then gradually raised over the peak of the cap in the manner before directed. The time for completing the salute is six paces, commencing with the left foot, and may be divided (for Drill practice) as follows:—First pace, the sword raised to the right; Second pace, to the “Recover;” Third pace, to the right shoulder; Fourth pace, the sword lowered to the right; Fifth pace, the left arm raised; Sixth pace, hand brought to the peak of the cap.
The head should be slightly turned towards the Reviewing Officer, whilst passing him, and having done so six paces, and given the signal (as before) “Recover swords” at one pace, and in “Port” the following pace.
The same time is given for the Salute when mounted (which is to be completed in four motions), but the sword should then be kept in a line with the knee.
On the march, or when manœuvring, the sword may be carried to the full extent of the arm, the guard of the hilt resting upon the inside of the fingers, the back of the blade being against the hollow of the shoulder.