Debbie Bliss pattern

[Linster]

I'm working on my first Debbie Bliss pattern (Frances) and find that my first row pattern count is two stitches shy of my total 118 stitches on the needles. I've counted and recounted. Do Debbie Bliss patterns assume that the first and last stitch are selvedge stitches? Any help would be appreciated.

[salmonmac]

Usually if there are supposed to be selvedge sts, the instructions tell you somewhere before the cast on and then perhaps they're omitted in the rest of the instructions. Check and see if there is a line somwhere at the top of the pattern.
If not, what are the instructions for the cast on and first row?