Those of the company who wish to play arrange themselves in a straight line on the floor, all kneeling on the right knee, while on the other knee they must have their hands resting and twist their thumbs. Their countenances must all wear a very solemn, woeful appearance; indeed, the rule is that should even a smile be detected on the countenance of any one a forfeit can be demanded. The following conversation is then carried on, each sentence of which, both question and answer, must be repeated in turn by every one of the players—all remembering that the utmost gravity must be sustained throughout:—
"Well, friend, and how art thou? Hast thou heard of Brother Obadiah's death?"
"No. How did he die?"
"With one finger up,(The player must here cease twisting his thumbs, and hold up the forefinger of the right hand).
With one eye shut, (Here he must shut the left eye).
And shoulder all awry."
"How did he die?"
"In this way."
When the conversation reaches this point the player at the top of the row gives his neighbour a good strong push, which in time has the effect of precipitating all the players on the floor, and thus turning the solemn meeting into a very uproarious one.
THE RESTING WAND.
It is necessary in playing the Resting Wand that at least two people should be acquainted with the mystery attached to it, and that they should make an arrangement with each other beforehand to understand each other's movements. One of these two persons is blindfolded, and placed with his back to the company, while his companion, with a staff in his hand, stands facing them. The latter of the two then begins an animated conversation with his friends, trying when talking to them to make frequent mention of their names. Stopping occasionally, he touches some one with the wand, saying at the same time to his friend, who is blindfolded, "On whom does the wand rest?" Strangers to the game will not all at once perceive that the wand is always made to rest on the person who was the last but one to speak, and that it is on account of this arrangement that the blinded person is able to mystify his friends by answering correctly the question, "On whom does the wand rest?"