marnanel:

The example in the preface of this 1874 book made me laugh out loud. I think it’s the unexpected “Parrot”.

EXAMPLE.

To send a telegram according to the plan of this work, first have the message clearly written out at full length, then select the leading words or their equivalents in the message. On referring to the 'A B C,' the Code Word will be easily found in the next previous column, opposite to such leading word or words, for example

MESSAGE.

'There is a favourable change in the market. Telegraph cost, freight, and insurance Petersburg Y.C. Tallow, early delivery, payable one-third on shipment, two-thirds on delivery. We shall be glad to receive your market report. Have you attended to last order? When were the goods forwarded? Present supplies are not equal to requirements. Keep us well advised of sailings from your port.'

CODED.

Cementation, Coronet, Hoshama, Depose, Parrot, Gifted, Overmatch, Grayling, Reprisal, Sandy.ALT