3. The multiplication sign (×) was obtained by changing the plus sign into the letter X. This was done because multiplication is a short method of addition.
4. Division (÷) was formerly indicated by placing the dividend above a horizontal and the divisor below. In order to save space in printing, the dividend was placed to the left and the divisor to the right, and a dot was written in the place of each.
5. The radical sign (√) was derived from the initial letter of the word radix.
6. The sign of equality (=) was first used to avoid repeating the words "equal to" or "equals."
HOUSEHOLD GODS IN TRANSIT.
Two Lyrics Which Describe Some of the Vicissitudes of Those Who Seek New Dwellings
and Give Employment to Furniture Vans.
FURTHERUPTOWN!
Tired to death, but walking fast,
Along Broadway, one night, there passed
A youth, who bore a pretty nice
Umbrella, with this strange device,
"Furtheruptown!"