The Open Position needs no explanation, and can be readily understood from the illustration facing page [8].
THE SIDE POSITION OF THE WALTZ
The side position of the Waltz differs from the Waltz Position only in the fact that the partners stand side by side and with the engaged arms more widely extended. The free arms are held as in the [frontispiece]. In the actual rotation this position naturally resolves itself into the regular Waltz Position.
THE STEP OF THE BOSTON
The preparatory step of the Boston differs materially from that of any other Social Dance. There is only one position of the feet in the Boston—the 4th. That is to say, the feet are separated one from the other as in walking.
On the first count of the measure the whole leg swings freely, and as a unit, from the hip, and the foot is put down practically flat upon the floor, where it immediately receives the entire weight of the body perpendicularly. The weight is held entirely upon this foot during the remainder of the measure, whether it be in 3/4 or 2/4 time.
The following preparatory exercises must be practiced forward and backward until the movements become natural, before proceeding.
In going backward, the foot must be carried to the rear as far as possible, and the weight must always be perpendicular to the supporting foot.