Having obtained your bones—a pair for each hand—you must know how they should be held. Notice they are slightly curved, as in [Fig. 1]. With a pair in each hand place the ends between the first and second and second and third fingers, the convex sides towards each other ([Fig. 2]). Hold No. 1 (the bone between the first and second fingers) fairly firmly, although not so stiffly as to rob it of a distinct spring. No. 2 (the bone between the second and third fingers) must be rapped up against its companion by the action of the third and fourth fingers.
Fig. 1.—Curved bone used in nigger minstrelsy.
A sharp shake of the hand will make the bones clap together, while if you keep the hand quivering and also work bone No. 2 vigorously a continuous rattle is produced.
Fig. 2.—How to hold the bones.
Fig. 3.—Correct position for playing the bones.
A good plan, when once you are accustomed to having the bones between the fingers, is to hold the hand with the knuckles upwards, the bones pointing to the ground, as in [Fig. 3]. By this means the fingers are allowed freer play. At the same time a better appearance is given to the exhibition.
At first you will find your rattles jerky and spasmodic, but do not be content until you have the bones so entirely under command that you can make a long rattle as easily as a solitary tap, remembering that the less exertion you betray the better will be the effect.