gesticulate to make or use gestures, esp. with the hands and arms, as in adding nuances or force to one's speech, or as a substitute for speech.
torrid so hot as to be parching or oppressive; scorching.
Reds [Slang] Communists.
lamp standard lamppost.
barmy [Brit. Slang] crazy.
round the bend [Brit. Informal] crazy; insane.
bomb happy [Slang, Chiefly Brit.] crazy; insane.
crackers [Slang, Chiefly Brit.] crazy; insane.
pills [Vulgar Brit Slang] the testicles.
bowstave here, slightly curved arc like that of a bow.
