Smyrna times., 1858-08-05
Salutations Among Different Nations

The expressions used as salutations among
different nations have, under their common as
pect, something characteristic and interesting
even for the most casual observer.
In the East these expressions SAVIOR, in more
orless degree, oflhe Scriptures, and ofthe serene
and patriarchal sentiments of the inhabitants.
One recognizes the immobity of these pasto-
raj and warlike people, standing aloof from all
human progress. Nearly all have foundation
IN religious sentiments, and expresses peace
to those to whom they are addressed.
The salutation used by the Arab, Salem"
or "Shalum," means peace, and is found in the
word Jerusalem. The Arab salutes his friend
thus: MAY you have a happy morning :"
May God grant you his tavors;'' elf God
wills it, you are WELL" This last expression
betrays their fanaticism.
Turks have formilla which can only be
used in sunny clime,-" May your shadow
never be less" An Englishman would never
think of wishing friend a fine shadow.
The climate of Egypt is feverous and perspi-
ration is necessary to health; hence the
Egyptian meeting you, asks, " How do you per.
spire 90
"Ilave you eaten!" "Is your stomach in
good order" asks the Chinamen-a touching
solicitude, which can only be appreciated by a
nation of gourmands.
"Good cheer" says the modern Greek, in
nearly the same language that the ancients
were wont to greet their friends. A charming
salutation, which could have only originated
among the happy, careless Greeks.
The Romans, who were heretofore robust,
indefatigable and laborious, had energetic sau
tations, expressing force and action "Salve,'
" Be strong," Be healthy; and Guidayis,'
{" What do you do!'' or "what make you!''
The Genoese of modern times says, Health
and wealth." which is very appropriate for an
active and commercial people.
The Neapolitan devoutly says, "Grow in
sancity;" and the Piedmontese, al am your
servant" The How stand you!" of almost
al Italy, forclbIy indicates the nonchalance of
that sunny land.
The Spaniard, grave, naughty and indiffer-
ent, wishes you Good-morning," to which we
respond, " At your service, SIR" Another salu-
taton which the Spaniard uses, {" God be with
you, signor," shows melange of respect for
ones self and religious sentiment.
The ordinary salutation of the German is
VIE Gents ?"-" How goes it 2" and has
vagueness partaking somewhat of the dreamy
character of the German. To bid one adieu,
he says, Leben siewho. -" Live quiet and be
happy." This last plainly indicates his peace
fu nature and love for the simple joys of life.
The travelling Hollander asks you, Hoe
waat'sge !'--How do you go!' The thought
ful active Swed, demands, OF what do you
think!' whilst the Dane, more placid, uses the
German expression, Liv vel.'-' Live well.'--
But the greeting of the Pole is best of ALL
Are you happy?
The Engligh have the Goodbye corrup-
tion of Good be with yon,' and some others
but that which best exhibits the character OF
the English is How do you ~ as the &C.
tivity Of the people is shown in this demand
where the do is spoken twice. Nothing i;
more characteristic, more lively, or more stir
ring than this.
The Comment voux porter vouz!' of tht
Frenchman is equally characteristic. Tht
Frenchman is more active than laborous-mor,
ardent, more passionate, than thoughtful ant
hence the principle with him is not to do, bu
to go--to be lively, to show himself. An,
there is something in this expression, Com
ment vous portez vous !'--' How do you carr
yourself!' bespeaks at once his franl
manner and pleasant face.
o. letter from Frazier's River gives tn
, following statement of the market at tha
| place: "Pork is selling at 81 per pound
flour so cents per pould.
t o. The United States Navy Departmen
Y has decided against the request of the Collin
t line of steamships, that Portland be made th