FIG. 1 is a front, left side perspective view of an endoscopic linear stapling and dividing surgical instrument showing our new design being in its open-jaw, safety-activated position, the shaft being broken in the center to simplify the depiction of the design;

FIG. 2 is a left elevational view thereof, the instrument being in its first safety-deactivated position;

FIG. 3 is a left elevational view thereof, the endoscopic linear stapling and dividing surgical instrument being in its closed-jaw, second safety-deactivated position, the right elevational view thereof being identical;

FIG. 4 is a front elevational view thereof;

FIG. 5 is a rear elevational view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a top plan view thereof; and,

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view thereof.