[2] If such sign-language were really maintained,
it must have been extensively supplemented as the library
grew in size, for although striking the thumb and little
finger together would describe am Antiphonary, or making
the sign of the Cross and kissing the finger would indicate
a Gradual, yet some additions to the signs for a pagan
book and a tract were necessary to signify what particular
tract or book was wanted. But probably if this rule was
observed at all--and we do not think it likely--the signs
were used only for church books, and most often in church.
In nearly every monastery the rule of silence was made.
In the Brigittine house of Syon "silence after some convenience
is to be kepte in the lybrary, whyls any suster is
there alone in recordyng of her redynge."[3] But it was at
all times difficult to enforce, as the monks, in experience
and habits, were but children.
[1] Du Cange, Gloss., art., Scriptorium.
[2] Martene, De Ant. Mon. Ritibus, v. c. 18, Section 4.
[3] E. H. R., xxv. 121.
For notes, exercises, brief letters, bills, first drafts, daily,
services of the church, the names of officiating brethren,--
for all temporary purposes waxed tablets were used.
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