62. A sign resembling that of the cross is made on the chin or throat. “You won’t tell?” “No.” “Well, cross your throat.”
Cambridge, Mass.
63. When a child wishes to make an asseveration, he wets his finger on his mouth and signs a cross on his throat.
Salem, Mass.
64. In asseveration, the proper method is to use the words, “Hope to die if I don’t,” the speaker drawing the forefinger across the throat from ear to ear.
Biddeford, Me.
65. Asseveration in Maine and Massachusetts is often made by the following formula. First boy: “Honor bright?” Second boy: “Hope to die.” First boy: “Cut your throat?” Second boy draws finger across throat. This is the strongest possible form of oath that can be taken by a boy.
66. Little girls, without any idea of the meaning, employ the following formula of asseveration:—
Certain, true,
Black and blue.
A variant of the first line: “Certain and true.”