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NATIVE TRIBES OF SOUTH-EAST AUSTRALIA
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then point to the ground (Aldolinga).[1] Make three waves towards the ground with the hand (Kuriwalu).[2] Throw hand towards the ground (Eucla).[3] Stretch hand out in front, with pahn outwards. Then suddenly jerk hand downwards (Mundainbura).[4]

Hear.—Point to the ear with the forefinger of the right hand (Wurunjerri). Make a number of small circles with the finger in front of the ear (Aldolinga).[1] Fanning with the hand about two inches from the ear means, "I cannot hear you. Say it again" (Dieri).[5] Extend the hand over the head as high as possible; stoop and reach out as far as possible till the hand nearly reaches the ground; do this quickly, this means, "I hear you, I know what you mean." These signs are used when communicating from a distance (Dieri).[5] Point to the ear (Eucla).[3] Touch the ear (Ngarigo). Tap the ear, then raise the hand above the head (Mundainbura).[4]

Hungry.—Extend the arms both upwards, so as to show the stomach drawn in (Wurunjerri). Rub the open hand over the stomach (Yantruwunta). Tap the stomach with the finger and then extend the open hand (Dieri).[6] Point to the stomach with bent fingers (Aldolinga).[1] Pat the stomach (Kuriwalu).[2] Draw up the abdomen, and look miserable (Eucla).[3] Rub the pit of the stomach with the right hand (Wolgal). Pat the stomach with the hand (Mundainbura).[4]

I.—Point to the breast (Wurunjerri). Pass the forefinger down at a little distance from the forehead along the nose, or tap the breast lightly with the forefinger (Dieri).[6] Point to yourself (Aldolinga).[1] Point to the breast (Kuriwalu).[2] Place hand upon the chest (Eucla).[3] Tap the breast with the forefinger (Mundainbura).[4]

Kill.—Make several movements downwards with the fist, as of striking violently (Dieri).[6] Strike short blows with one hand on the other (Dieri).[5] Hold the right hand high over the head, with the palm downwards (Kuriwalu).[2]

Large.—Clench the fist and strike downwards. For very large strike a longer blow with more force (Dieri).[5]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Rev. H. Kempe.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 J. H. Kirkham.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 H. Williams.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 W. Logan.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 S. Gason.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 Vogelsang.