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THE

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE,

 

ARRANGED FOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MILITARY INSTRUCTION,

 

BY

 

BREVET MAJOR HENRY C. WAYNE,

 

U. S. ARMY.

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE WAR DEPARTMENT

 

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

WASHINGTON:

 

PRINTED BY GIDEON AND 00

 

 

1850.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

________________________________________________

 

Entered according to act of Congress, in the year 1850,

 

BY HENRY C. WAYNE,

 

In the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the District of Columbia,

_________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WASHINGTON, APRIL 17, 1849.

 

Bt. Major General R. Jones,

                   Adjutant General.

 

SIR:        I have the honor to submit to your examination “A system of Exercise on foot for the Small-Sword, Broad-Sword, Sabre, Cut and Thrust, and Stick,” as arranged and taught by me at the U. S.. Mili­tary Academy when Director of the Sword Exercise at that Institution.

It is submitted at the request of some of my brother officers, to sup­ply a deficiency in our military instruction, and as a healthy and manly amusement, improving both the morale and physique of the soldier.

It is arranged from several works upon the subject, and in conformity with the principles of the Cavalry and Infantry Tactics in use by our Army, which it is designed to assist.

I am, General, very respectfully,

                                          Your obedient servant,

                                                            HENRY C. WAYNE,

Bvt. Major U. S. Army.

____

 

Instruction in the use and exercise of the Sword is deemed to be highly important and beneficial to the service. Such a system as the one pre­pared by Major WAYNE is much needed in our Army, and will be duly appreciated by the commissioned officer and private soldier. I respectfully recommend it for favorable consideration.

R.  JONES, Adjt. General.

____

 

HEAD-QUARTERS OF THE ARMY,

West Point, N. Y., August 30, 1849.

 

Hon. G. W. CRAWFORD,

              Secretary of War.

SIR: The system of exercise on foot for, the Small-Sword, Broad-Sword, Sabre, &c., as arranged by Brevet Major H. C. WAYNE, Captain and Assistant Quartermaster, which was referred to me from the War Department for consideration, has been submitted, informally, to the inspection of such officers at the Military Academy as were supposed

 

 

 

4

 

to be most conversant with the subject. From their reports, as from what I have myself seen of it, when taught by Major Wayne to the Cadets at the time he was Director of the Sword Exercise at this place, I approve highly of the system, and recommend that it be published, under Major Wayne’s supervision, by the War Department, for gene­ral circulation in the Army, where it is much needed.

I have the honor to be, sir,

                                                             Your obedient servant,

WINFIELD SCOTT,

 

 

 

 

“La plupart des Anciens Militaires que j‘ai connus m‘ont assure, que le soldat exerce aux armes en etoit d’autant plus adroit dans une melee et consequemment plus nuisible a l’ennemi.”—La Boessiere.

 

 

 

“Fencing sharpens the eyesight, increases active power in general, tries the temper, and teaches decision in seizing occasions for acting offensively with effect, or defensively with coolness and resolution. A knowledge to fence with foils, even to exercise the sabre and broad­sword, is deemed a necessary, accomplishment for all military men of the higher class. It is useful to the common soldier on account of his duty; it ought therefore to be included among the essentials in his military education, for the sake of its utility.”—Jackson’s View of the Formation, Discipline, and Economy of Armies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FENCING

 

WITH

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE SMALL SWORD:

 

ARRANGED FOR

 

 

 

 

 

INSTRUCTION IN SQUADS OR CLASSES,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BREVET MAJOR H. C. WAYNE.

 

U.S. ARMY,

 

LATE DIRECTOR OF THE SWORD EXERCISE IN THE U.S.

MILITARY ACADEMY AT WEST POINT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE WAR DEPARTMENT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WASHINGTON:

 

PRINTED BY GIDEON AND CO.

 

1849.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PREFACE.

 

 

The following method, the suggestion of Major R. DE­LAFIELD,  U. S. Engineer Corps, when Superintendent of the Military Academy at West Point, was primarily ar­ranged solely for the instruction of the Cadets of that In­stitution. The scientific studies of the military profession necessarily occupying most of the four years set apart for the course of instruction there, but a short time can be devoted to its practical branches. The time being short, and the number to be instructed generally large, it became necessary to devise some plan by which the greatest amount of both theoretical and practical instruction in the use of the sword might be communicated to the whole of a class. The following method was suggested, and after an experience of three years and a half, its success was such as to warrant its systematic arrangement.

The preparation of the work for publication having been interrupted by the war with Mexico, was, after it, on account of other official engagements, altogether abandoned; but, at the urgent request of several military friends who had seen the system in operation, and who thought that it would be generally useful as a part of military physical education, it was again resumed, and is now presented with that view.

As arranged, the work embraces an outline of the prin­ciples of the art, with practices upon them; the object being merely to impart a knowledge of the principles, leaving the student to perfect himself by continued prac­tice, which can alone ensure a skilful and expert use of the sword.

The system of La Boessiere has been followed as the best both in theory. and practice. The modern innovations of “thrusts of the wrist”and “thrusts of extension,” have been carefully avoided as not being in accordance with true principles, and though difficult to be parried by indif­-

 

 

 

 

 

 

6                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Preface.

 

 

ferent swordsmen, they cannot be used successfully against a skilful fencer who understands “time thrusts,” “beat­ing” and “crossing.” Disarms, as formerly taught, are now altogether abandoned as dangerous to execute, and of no use whatever against a practised antagonist; they have been therefore omitted.

The chapeau forming no longer a part of the costume of the day, and the removal and replacing of the mask being difficult and awkward, the salute has been modified, and made to accord with the common salute with the sword, prescribed by the Infantry Tactics, vol. 1, page 188.

To those desirous of becoming proficients in the use of the small sword, either as a branch of the military profes­sion, or as a pleasant, healthful exercise, the study of La Boessiere’s work, “Traits de l’art des armes,” is recom­mended.

 

 

 

 

Explanation of terms not defined in the text.

 

APPEL.—A  sudden beat with the right foot, by raising and letting it        fall on the same spot, previous to or at the instant of making  a feint or thrust.

INSIDE.—To the left.

MEA5URE.—The distance at which an adversary can be touched by a correct development.

OUTSIDE.—Tothe right.

QUARTE.—(Applied to the hand)—nails up.

RIPOSTE—A thrust delivered immediately after a parry

To RIPOSTE.—To parry and thrust.

TIERCE.—Applied to the hand—nails down.

WITHIN.—See Inside.

WlTHOUT.—See Outside

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUIPMENTS.

 

A loosely fitting jacket of brown linen, with standing collar, to but­ton on the left ride; the right aide, with the sleeves of the right arm, from the elbow to the shoulder, to be faced with strong buckskin, or other pliable leather.            -

A black silk cravat.

Loose easy pantaloons, fitting well in the crotch, with strap and buckle on the waistband behind to draw tight about the waist; or a pair of nett drawers, fitting closely, but allowing free movement of the limbs.

A slipper for the left foot.

A SANDAL for the right foot.

An iron wire mask, with wings for the protection of the ears and side face. (Fig. 7, Plate I.)

A buckskin glove, stuffed with hair, for the right hand.

A pair of foils. (Fig. 1, Plate 1.)

A PLASTRON (Fig 6, Plate 1) made of soft leather on the outside, and of strong linen underneath, stuffed to the thickness of half an inch with hair, well quilted to keep it in its place, but not so tight as to make it stiff and inflexible, for those who require more security than the jacket will afford. It should cover the breast from the throat to the waist, and be fastened by straps and buckles around the neck, back, and waist.

Masks, gloves, slippers, sandals, and foils, may be purchased at most of the shops where military ornaments and equipments are sold, and from many of the importers and dealers in French or German fancy articles.

It will be found cheaper and more satisfactory to buy the blades and handles separately, and to mount them one’s self, than to buy them ready handled.

 

FOILS

 

Foils are of two kinds, for lessons and for assaults. The first should be used by beginners, as from their flexibility accidents are less likely to occur, and as the stiffness of the latter would be apt to give to the hand a rigidity injurious to light and ready movement.

The foil for lessons is a flat blade, about 31 inches long, (measuring from shoulder to point,) and should, when bent, curve at least three-fourths of its length from the button. A blade that begins to bend at the middle is badly made, there being too much metal in the feeble, (18); it is consequently not balanced, and would be weighty in the hand. A good blade is strong at the shoulder, and tapers gradually from it to the point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

8                                                              SWORD EXERCISE.

 

To Mount a Foil.

 

As the stiffness of the foil for assaults is objectionable in lessons, so the flexibility of the flat blade or foil for lessons renders it unfit for as­saults. The foil for assaults is a square blade, about 32 inches long, tapering from shoulder to point, and should, when bent, curve its whole length, A certain degree of stiffness and temper is requisite: if too soft, it will be rendered more so in the process of mounting, and would become altogether useless in two or three assaults; if too hard, it is apt to be brittle, and accidents may happen. A brittle blade, however, that pleases in other respects, may be reduced to a proper temper by heat­ing it a little, and allowing it to cool gradually. Practice will soon enable one to distinguish a well made and balanced blade.

In purchasing a blade, (Fig. 2, Plate 1,) first measure the length, then pass the eye along each of the four sides to detect flaws, if any, then placing the point on the ground, bear the hand down a little and gradually, observing the curve. Be careful not to lower the hand too much and suddenly, as the strain will be thrown upon the feeble, and the blade may break.

The gripe, (18,) (Fig. .5, Plate 1,) should be about four and seven-tenths inches long, and its section a rectangle, (because if rounded it would be liable to turn in the hand,) and of uniform thickness from end to end. A gripe, whose section is rectangular, is easily held with­out unnecessary compression of the fingers, and allows them free play. The thickness will depend somewhat upon the size of the hand; it is ordinarily two and six-tenths inches in perimeter. It should fill the hand without injuring the grasp.

 

 

TO MOUNT A FOIL.

 

A certain degree of curvature is necessary to a foil, rendering it less liable to be broken, handier, and in the thrusts facilitating the ap­proaches to an adversary’s body, particularly in that of quarte over the area. When the gripe (18) is held horizontally, (concave side down,) the point of the foil should be about two degrees Lower than its shoulder.        

This degree of curvature must be given to the blade in part before attaching to it the handle, and is done as follows: Place the tang a b (Fig. 2, Plate 1) horizontally between the jaws of a vice, screw them up until they just touch it, avoiding compression for fear of breaking it. By strongly drawing the blade to you several times, bend it from the shoulder to the middle. If bent too much, straighten it to the degree required.

To attach the handle, place the blade vertically between the jaws of the vice, the tang up, so that the effect of the curve can be seen; screw it tight. Fit the guard, (Fig. 3, Plate 1;) its hole should fit the tang closely when driven down; if it is too small, enlarge it with a narrower file, preserving the squareness of the sides; if too large, reduce it by compressing the guard between the jaws of the vice, or by blows of a hammer. Should the hole not be pierced exactly in the centre of the

 

 

 

 

 

       SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           9

 

To Mount a Foil.

 

 

guard, fit the largest side on the concave of the blade, otherwise, being on the outside, the effect would be bad. Secure the guard by two or three taps of a hammer to prevent its shaking, which in an assault would be apt to annoy and disconcert. The next thing to he fitted is the gripe. It’s concavity must correspond with that of the blade, and the tang must pass through its middle. If the hole is too small, open it to the required size with a common brace bit. Prepare three wedges of wood to fill the spaces between the tang end the gripe; they should be about two inches long. One of them, and a little the largest, is placed on the concave side, and the other two at right angles to it; a wedge is rarely placed on the convex side. These three wedges, thus placed, should retain the gripe securely in its place, and prevent its turning. They should be of soft wood, and not too thick, otherwise in driving down the gripe might be split by them. The gripe being properly adjusted, apply, to its upper end a wooden drift made for the purpose, and with a hammer commence driving down, tapping lightly, that the direction taken by the gripe may he observed and rectified if necessary. Should it turn to either side, place it horizontally in the vice, the concave side towards you, pass a file through the guard, from the aide of the gripe, bearing the end of it against the blade, and gently prying against the guard, turn the blade until it is brought into its place; replace the blade in the vice, tang up, and with the drift and hammer go on driving as before. As soon as the spaces are filled, cut off the wedges close to the gripe, the one on the concave side the last. Take the foil out of the vice, examine it carefully to see that every thing is right, and make such corrections as may be necessary; replace it in the vice, and with the drift and hammer drive the gripe closely against the guard. In cutting the wedges, make allowance for the swell of the tang; and if in driving down the gripe should show a tendency, or commence to split, immediately cut off the wedges, and placing the blade horizontally in the vice, knock off the gripe by striking with the hammer on the guard, reduce the wedges, and proceed as before.

The only thing remaining to be done is to attach the pommel, (18,) (Fig. 4, Plate. 1.) Before doing this, take the foil from the vice, and again examine it, correcting, according to the directions given, any de­fects that may be observed; replace it in the vice, the guard near the jaws; give, with the drift and hammer, one or two more blows to make ,‘all tight; fill up with four small wooden wedges any spaces that may be between the tang and gripe, to secure the tang in the middle. Fit the pommel. If the tang is too large, remove the foil from the vice and place between the jaws a hit of fiat wood, in which, with the file, make a small groove to retain the tang. This will be a temporary table to work upon. File away the tang to the required size. Still using the temporary table, slope with the file, the end of the gripe on the left side, (see manner of holding the foil, (20,) ) that the pommel when on may be inclined that way; this inclination prevents its striking against the wrist in any of the movements, and affecting the direction of the point. Return the foil to the vice, clasping it again near the guard; fit on the pommel, filling the space, if any, between it and the tang, with two

 

 

 

 

            10                                             SWORD EXERCISE.

 

To Shorten a Blade.

 

 

wooden wedges placed on the convex and concave sides; then with. a small iron drift made for the purpose, and a hammer, drive down. As soon as the spaces are filled, cut off the wedges close to the pommel, and finish driving down. The pommel should sit firmly upon the gripe. As soon as the pommel is adjusted, cut off, with the file, whatever of the tang will not be required for rivetting, (about one-tenth of an inch will be enough for this purpose,) and rivet. Take the foil from the vice, and placing in it the pommel, incline it a little to the left on the slope of the gripe. The foil is mounted.

The pommel should not be too heavy, as it would, in the movements, tend to throw the point up. The foil being mounted, give the blade a finishing curve by drawing it under the foot, and arm.

 

TO SHORTEN A BLADE THAT IS TOO LONG₇

HEAVY, AND SOFT

 

Sometimes we meet with blades as long as 33 inches; these are rarely good for any purpose except to keep at a distance an unskilful antago­nist. Should one of this length, however, be met with, giving a good carve, and of which the metal is a little soft, it may be reduced to 32 inches, by taking off half an inch from the point, and half an inch from the shoulder. The half inch taken from the point only adds strength to the blade; cutting off more would spoil its curve.

Having cut off the half inch from the button, measure from the point on the blade 32 inches; mark this measurement by notching the edges with a file. Placing, the blade between the jaws of a vice, work down two of its sides with a coarse file, prolonging the tang and forming a new shoulder, making allowance in filing down, for the tapering of the blade. All this, though tedious, must be done cold, as heating the blade would destroy its temper. Should the hole of the guard be too large for the new shoulder, slipping over it on to the blade, take a bit of brass about the size and thickness of a dime, and make in it a hole just fitting the tang at the shoulder, and on this place the guard. After the guard is adjusted, file away any excess of brass over the guard, which, if allowed to remain, might hurt the fingers.

 

TO BUTTON A FOIL.

 

The blade having been shortened as just described, or the button ac­cidentally broken off; place the blade in the vice, leaving about the eighth’ (4) of an inch of the point above the jaws. With a small flat file, smooth on the edges, file away two sides, forming a small tang and shoulder, carefully preserving the squareness of the edges. Take a piece of copper or brass, quarter (4) of an inch square, and of the thickness of half a dime, lay it on a block of hard wood, and make in its middle with a small punch (the end of a broken fail filed down will answer) a rectangular hole just large enough to fit tightly the tang pre­pared for it; file down the edges raised by the punch, and with a ham-

              

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           11

 

To Cover the Button.

 

mer flatten it upon the vice; pass the punch through the hole two or three times, from both sides, to clear it, and give a smooth and neat fit; adjust it nicely on the tang, and using a pommel as a drift, with two or three light blows of the hammer, drive it down, gently, but securely; rivet it on, and with a file round its edges, and finish with two or three blows of the hammer to tighten it, should it have been loosened by the action of the file.

 

 

TO COVER THE BUTTON.

 

The buttons of foils are generally too large. Round the edges with a file, and reduce the diameter to one-fifth of an inch. Cut a strip of some soft skin, a little wider than the diameter of the button, as it stretches in drawing; take with it two or three turns over the button, and cover it with a small patch of the same skin doubled. Holding the foil in the left hand, retaining the patch in its place with the thumb and forefinger, take with the right a bit of strong packthread, and putting its end under the thumb of the left hand, pass over the button, with the right, two half hitches, drawing them tight to secure the skin; tie the ends of the thread together, and neatly trim off the excess of skin and Thread. The knot should be tied on the concave side.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.

_______________

 

PART 1.

 

EXERCISE WITHOUT FOILS.

 

FALL IN.

 

1.   The squads of not more than eight will be formed in one rank, acing the instructor, intervals of two paces between the files.

 

ATTENTION.

 

2.   The position of the soldier, as described in the In­fantry Tactics, (Lesson 1st, Vol. 1,)* will be promptly assumed.

 

1ST POSITION. Fig. 1, Plate 2.

 

3.   Half face to the left, turning on the left heel, at the same time bring the heel of the right foot against that of the left; feet precisely at right angles to each other.

 

2D POSITION—ON GUARD. Fig. 2, Plate 2.

 

4.   Standing in 1st position (3;) advance the right foot about twice and a half its own length, in a line directly at right angles to the left, plant it firmly on the ground; both knees slightly bent, the left the most, as that leg should principally sustain the weight of the body; body erect and resting well upon the legs; chest well thrown oat, head up and turned in the direction of the right foot; muscles of the neck supple and free from all constraint. Raise the right arm, extended and slightly bent, until the hand is

 

*NOTE.—” Heels on the same line and as close as the conformation of the man may permit; the feet forming with each other something less than a right angle, the toes equally turned out; the knees straight without stiffness; the body erect on the hips; the shoulders square and falling equally; arms hanging naturally; * * * * * * * * * the face well to the front; the chin a little drawn in without con­straint. * * * * * “—Page 24, Vol. 1, Scott’s Tactics.

 

 

14                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise without Foils.

 

 

about 5 inches lower than the shoulder, fingers closed as if grasping a foil, nails downwards, thumb horizontal. Ex­tend the left arm to the rear, raising the hand two or three inches higher than the top of the head, slightly bending the elbow, hand open and free; shoulders at their natural height.

 

THE DEVELOPMENT—LONGE OUT. Fig. 3, Plate 2. (3 Motions.)

 

 

5.  (1st motion) Raise the right arm; fore arm vertical, elbow at the height of the mouth, fingers extended and joined, palm showing to the left; at the same time bring down the left arm by the side, fully extended, about three inches from the left leg, fingers extended and joined, palm showing to the left.

6.  (2d motion.) Straighten the left knee strongly. This throws the body forward upon the right leg, forming what is called the EXTENSION, which is an essential part of the longe, as it assists in directing and fixing the point. With­out it the body and point will always waver and be infirm.

7.  (3d motion.) Advance the right foot close along the ground, raising the toe slightly; left foot fiat upon the ground, ankle joint supple and well bent, leg extended, knee perfectly straight; body erect, head up, breast pro­jected, right and left arms as at 5; no swinging of the left arm, either vertically or laterally, in passing from 1st motion (5) to 3d motion (7.) Right knee vertical over the instep, right heel opposite to and in a line perpendicular to the left, distance between the feet about twice that of the guard, (4.)

8.  In advancing the right foot the heel should not slide along the ground, and on the other hand, the opposite error of raising the foot so high as to describe with it a perceptible curve, must also be avoided. By the first, the movement is retarded; by the latter, the position of the body is deranged and its equilibrium destroyed. The instructor will give his attention particularly to the body being held perfectly erect, with his own hand gently cor­recting any deviations from the directions given, prevent-

 

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        15

 

Exercise without Foils.

 

ing the body from falling forward upon the right leg, and. the reverse, the keeping the shoulders stiffly back. By the first, the recovery to the guard (4) would be retarded, besides the danger, in an assault, of throwing the body upon the adverse point by the second, the advance of the right foot is constrained, preventing a full development, (7)and consequently diminishing the efficiency of the longe.

ON GUARD.

 

2 The recovery from the development is always to the 2d position, (4.) Raise the toe of the right foot, exert quickly the muscles of the right heel and left leg, throwing up the left arm to the rear, and assuming as rapidly as possible the position at 4.

10.The recovery should be easy and graceful, and free from violent exertion. The right hand, in recovering, should be brought instantly to its position at 4, never fall­ing below it.

ADVANCE.

 

11.Standing on guard, (4;) move the right foot for­ward, with ease, to the distance of 12 or 14 inches, bring­ing up the left instantly the same distance.

RETREAT.

 

12.Standing on guard, (4;) move the left foot to the rear a distance of 12 or 14 inches, bringing back the right instantly the same distance, and planting it firmly on the ground with a slight appel.

13.In advancing or retreating great steadiness and reg­ularity are necessary. The body should be kept firmly and steadily on guard. The instructor will give particular attention here, pausing between each step, and observing that the distances are correctly taken, and the position of the guard (4) preserved.

 

THE DEVELOPMENT—LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

14.(1st motion.) Execute simultaneously the 1st and 2d motions of the development, (6 and 6,) forming the extension.

 

 

 

 

16                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Exercise without Foils.

 

15. (2d motion.) Third motion (7) of the development.

 

THE DEVELOPMENT—LONGE OUT. (1 Motion.)

 

 

16.Execute the motions (14 and 15) in the order named, but making them comprehend the same moment of time.

17.The instructor will frequently return to the develop­ment in three and two motions, until the pupils become habituated to a certain fixed and correct longe. As soon as this is the case the exercise with foils may be com­menced.

 

 

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        17

 

Exercise with Foils.

 

 

PART II.

 

EXERCISE WITH FOILS.

 

 

18.The instructor will explain that the foil may be divided into two parts, the hilt and the blade, which may be sub-divided into five; the hilt into three, the pommel, gripe, and guard; the blade into two, the fort, from the shoulder to the middle of the blade; the feeble, from the middle to the point. The gripe, it will be observed, is slightly convex on one side, and concave on the opposite.

19.In the 1st position, (3,) (Fig. 1, Plate 2,) the foil is held; concave side of the gripe down; right thumb fiat upon the convex and about 1/2 an inch from the guard; blade resting in the left hand; arms hanging naturally by the sides.

20.In the 2d position, (4,) (Fig. 2, Plate  2,) the foil is held as at 19, by the third and little finger, the thumb and two first fingers simply supporting not grasping it; hand in either half quinte (42) or half tierce, (37,) forming the engagement or guard of either quarte (22) or tierce (23;) point at an elevation of about 15 degrees.

21.In the development or longe, the instructor will cause the right hand to be elevated, first in quarte (38) and then in tierce, (34,) introducing the word quarte or tierce, as the case may be, between the words development and longe out. in passing from the 2d position, (4,) to that of the longe, (7,) the gripe, whenever the hand is in quarte, is released by the third and little fingers, and seized by the thumb and two first fingers. Particular attention must be paid to the opposition and elevation, (25.)

 

ENGAGE OR (ON GUARD)—IN QUARTE.

 

22.(See 4 and 20.) Hand in half quinte, (42,) opposite to the left nipple; wrist slightly bent, so as to hold the adverse point to the left, out of the line of the body; blades joined on the inside; point at the height of the throat:

 

 

 

18                                                         SWORD EXERCISE

 

Exercise with Foils.

 

ENGAGE OR (ON GUARD)—IN TIERCE.

 

23.(See 4 and 20.) Hand in half tierce, opposite to the right nipple; wrist straight, so as to hold the adverse point to the right, out of the line of the body; blades joined on the outside; point at the height of the throat.

24.From these two engagements or guards all the va­rious thrusts and parries are generally made. The arm in neither case should be stretched, but a little bent and flexible, the elbow slightly inclined to the outside. In engaging or in passing from one engagement to another, the adverse blade must be seized and held with the fort. Seizing or holding with the feeble is termed “engaging falsely,” or “false engagement “ and is a great error; for an adversary, quick and elevating well, will take ad­vantage of it, and deliver a direct thrust (74) along the blade, which, from the flexibility of the feeble, it will be impossible to parry.

25.There are eight simple thrusts, and for each thrust a corresponding parry, viz: Prime, Seconde, Tierce, Quarte, Quinte, Quarte over the arm, Demi-circle or Low Quarte, and Octave. In making the thrusts the instructor will strongly insist upon what is called elevation and opposition. Elevation consists in raising the hand sufficiently high to cover the body from a riposte over the arm; opposition, in opposing the adverse blade, so as to turn its point from the line of the person, thus securing it by preventing a “thrust for a thrust”—thatis, both parties touching each other at the same time. The opposition is either inward or outward, according as it is to the left or right. As it is the longe  which carries the point to the mark, the hand only directing and sustaining it, any attempt to reach it by stretching out the hand and arm will be strictly guarded against. If the object thrust at is too distant to be touched by a correct and proper longe, (16,) resort must be had to the advance, (11.)

 

IN PRIME—LONGE OUT. ~Fig. 2, Plate 3 (3. Motion.)

 

26.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the arm. Raise the right hand in tierce, arm extended but not stiffly,

 

 

 

      SWORD EXERCISE                                                        19

 

Exercise with Foils.

 

point at the height of the breast, opposition inward; head thrown well to the right rear, so as to look over the arm; drop the left hand by the side as at 5.

      27.     (2d motion.)          Form the extension, (6.)
          28.     (3d motion.)          Execute 7, elevating the right hand

well.

 

PARRY IN PRIME. Fig. 1, Plate 3.

 

29.Drop the point, raise the right hand in tierce, di­rectly opposite to and at the height of the left brow, so as to see clearly under it; elbow freely bent; opposition in­ward.

 

IN SECONDE—LONGE OUT. Fig 2, Plate 4. (3 Motions.)

 

30.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered under the arm. Raise the right hand (in tierce) to the height of the mouth and in the plane of the right shoulder; point at the height of the ribs; opposition outward; drop the left hand as at 5.

31. (2d motion.) Form the extension, (6.)

32.(3d motion.) Execute 7, elevating the right hand a little higher than the top of the head.

 

PARRY IN SECONDE. Fig. I, Plate 4.

 

83.Drop the point, raise the right hand as at 30 ; oppo­sition outward.

IN TIERCE—LONGE OUT. Fig. 2, Plate 5. (3 Motions.)

 

34.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the arm. Raise the right hand (in tierce) to a good elevation; point at the height of the breast; opposition outward; drop the left hand as at 5.

      35.     (2d motion.)          Form the extension, (6.)
          36.     (3d motion.)          Execute 7, keeping the right hand at

its elevation.

 

 

20                                                         SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Exercise with Foils.

 

PARRY IN TIERCE. Fig. 1, Plate 5.

 

37.(See 23.) Turning the hand well to tierce and raising the point a little, enough to afford complete protec­tion to the person; opposition outward.

 

IN QUARTE—LONGE OUT. Fig. 2, Plate 6. (3 Motions.)

 

38.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the arm. Raise the right hand (in quarte) to a good elevation; point a~ the height of the breast; opposition inward; drop the left hand as at 5.

39.(2d motion.)          Form the extension, (6.)

40.(3d motion.)          Execute 7, keeping the right hand at its elevation.

PARRY IN QUARTE. Fig. 1, Plate 6.

 

41.(See 22.) Turning the hand well to quarte and raising the point a little, enough to afford complete protec­tion to the person; opposition inward.

IN QUINTE—LONGE OUT. Fig. 2, Plate 7. (3 Motions.)

 

42.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered from the engagement of quarte, close under the wrist, and has neither elevation nor opposition. Lower the right hand slightly, turning it in tierce just enough to bring the back up; blade nearly horizontal; drop the left hand as at 5.

43.(2d motion.)          Form the extension, (6.)

44.(3d motion.)          Execute 7, lowering the right hand a little more.

45.The thrust in quinte, on account of its not having either elevation or opposition, is a very dangerous one to make, and should never be delivered but when the adverse point is observed to be a good deal inclined from the line of the body.

 

PARRY IN QUINTE. Fig. I, Plate 7.

46 Drop the right hand quickly, turning it as at 42;at the same time lowering the body a little by bending slightly the left knee; opposition inward.

 

 

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        21

 

Exercise with Foils.

 

47.The thrust of quinte is also thrown off by the parries of seconde, (33,) demi-circle, (66,) and octave, (60.)

 

IN QUARTE OVER THE ARM—LONGE OUT. Fig 2, Plate 8.

(3 Motions.)

48.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the arm: raise the right hand well in quarte to a good elevation; point at the height of the breast; opposition outward; drop the left hand as at 6.

      49. (2d motion.)  Form the extension, (6.)

       50. (3d motion.) Execute 7, keeping the right hand at its elevation.

51.This is the most difficult thrust in fencing to deliver well, and one of the best.

 

PARRY IN QUARTE OVER THE ARM. Fig. 1, Plate 8.

52.Raise the right hand in half quarte, thumb directly up and at the height of the mouth; point tolerably well ele­vated to cover the person completely; opposition outward.

 

IN DEMI-CIRCLE---LONGE OUT. Fig. 2, Plate 9. (3 Motions.)

53.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered under the arm. Raise the right hand (in quarte) to the height of the mouth; point at the height of the ribs; opposition inward; drop the left hand by the side as at 6.

       54. (2d motion.) Form the extension, (6.)
              55. (3d motion.) Execute 7, raising the right hand to the height of the top of the head.

 

PARRY IN DEMI-CIRCLE. Fig. 1, Plate 9.

56.Drop the point; raise the right hand as at 63; op­position inward.

 

IN OCTAVE—LONGE OUT, Fig. 2, Plate 10. (3 Motions.)

 

57.(1st motion.) This thrust is delivered under the arm.  Raise the right hand (in quarte) to the height of the mouth; opposition outward; drop the left hand as at 5.

 

 

 

22                                                    SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Exercise with Foils.

58.(2d motion.)          Form the extension, (6.)

59.(3d motion.)          Execute 7, raising the right hand to the height of the top of the head.

 

PARRY IN OCTAVE. Fig. 1, Plate 10.

 

60.Drop the point; raise the right hand as at 57; op­position outward.

61.This is the most difficult parry in fencing to form correctly, and it is the best and most useful.

62.Practice of the thrusts in two motions, (14.)

63.Practice of the thrusts in one motion, (16.)

64.In making the thrusts and parries, the instructor will see that, in taking the opposition, the right hand is not thrown too much to the right or left, as the case may be, as it gives to an adversary opportunities for feints (90) and time thrusts, (181.) The ordinary rule is, not to allow the hand to pass outside of the planes defining the front of the person, thus confining its lateral movement to a space of about six or eight inches. The natural impulse of defence being to throw off, as far as possible, the point of any weapon thrust at us offensively, the instructor will labor to impress upon his pupils, in the parries, the advan­tages of restraining this impulse within such limits as will allow the offensive point to pass as near to the person a~ would be consistent with safety. The advantages referred to are, security from feints and quicker and more direct ripostes. In parrying, the fort of the blade must always be used, the feeble being liable to bend under the force of the thrust; the right hand must be boldly and firmly extended, and the point kept, as nearly as possible, in a line with the antagonist’s body. In the parries of prime, seconde, demi-circle, and octave, the point should not be dropped lower than the groin, and in the others as low as safety will per­mit; quickness in ripostes is thus gained, the point having a smaller arc to describe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       23

 

Thrusts and Parries united.

 

PART III.

 

THRUSTS AND PARRIES UNITED.

 

65.As soon as the preceding thrusts and parries can be executed correctly and quickly, the instructor will proceed to unite them, as follows:

66.The squad being formed as at 1, at the. command ATTENTION, the position of the soldier as described at 2 will be assumed, the foil being held by the blade, point down, just under the guard, between the fore and second fingers of the left hand.

 

FROM THE RIGHT—BY TWOS—CALL OFF.

 

67.Commencing with the right file, the pupils will call off ONE, TWO—ONE, TWO, to the left.

 

NUMBERS ONE—FOUR PACES TO THE FRONT, MARCH.

ABOUT FACE. COVER.

 

68.At the command MARCH, the numbers 1 will step off four paces and halt; at the command ABOUT FACE, they will execute the movement as described in the Infantry Tactics, (111, &c,, vol. 1st;) and at the command Cover, they will side step to the right until they come directly opposite to and facing the numbers two, thus forming couples.

1st POSITION.

 

69.(See 3 and 19.) The right feet of each couple must be in a line directly opposed, otherwise the longeing will be incorrect.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

 

70.    Both numbers of each couple will execute 22, ob­serving that the blades are correctly joined (24) on the inside, and that the bodies are well covered.            

 

 

 

 

 

 

24                                                        SWORD   EXERCISE.                                

 

Thrusts and Parries united.

 

 

NUMBER — CHANGE TIERCE.

 

71.  The number indicated, keeping the body steady and using the wrist only, will quickly pass his blade under and close to his antagonist’s, describing with its point as small a curve as possible, at the same time turning down the nails of the right hand, and assuming the engagement of tierce, (23.) The other number, as soon as he sees his antagonist’s point on the outside of his blade, will also promptly assume the guard of tierce, both covering them­selves well, and avoiding a false engagement, (24.)

 

NUMBER — CHANGE QUARTE.

 

72.  The number indicated will, in the manner described at 71, pass his blade underneath his antagonist’s to the engagement of quarte, (22,) at the same time turning his hand to quarte. The other number, as soon as he per­ceives his antagonist’s point to be inside of his blade, will also assume promptly the guard of quarte, both covering and engaging correctly.

73.  To change, then, it will be observed, is simply to pass from one engagement or guard to another, and to be executed well requires a free and flexible but firm wrist, avoiding any action of the arm. In assaults, (300,) by changing rapidly from one engagement to another, an ad­versary’s play may be spoilt, and, at the same time, ones own combinations furthered.

74.  Thrusts are either direct or disengaged. A direct thrust is one delivered on the same side with the engage­ment. A disengaged thrust is one delivered on the side opposite to that of the engagement, by simultaneously changing and longeing. To DISENGAGE, then, is to “change and longe.”

75.  In disengaging, the curve described by the point must be as small as possible, passing under or over the shoulder of the adverse blade, and the elevation and oppo­sition quickly and firmly taken. The point must be brought to bear at once, without wavering, upon the object aimed at.

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        25

 

Thrusts and Parries united.

 

 

THRUSTS AND PARRIES—ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

 

76.Both numbers of each coupI~e will execute 28.

 

NUMBER — PARRY QUARTE. NUMBER — DISENGAGE

QUARTE.

 

77.The number designated to disengage will, at the word quarte, execute 38, 39, 40, 74, 75. The number to parry will execute 41.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

78.If engaged in tierce, each couple will execute 72 and 22; if standing in first position. (3,) they will execute 22 only.

 

NUMBER — PARRY TIERCE OR (QUARTE OVER THE ARM)— NUMBER — DISENGAGE TIERCE OR (QUARTE OVER THE ARM.)

 

79.The number directed to disengage will, at the word tierce or quarte over the arm, execute 34, 35, 36, 74, and

or 48, 49, 50, 74, and 75, as the case may be. The number ordered to parry will, if the thrust is tierce, execute 37, if quarte over the arm, 52.

 

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

80.If engaged in quarte, each couple will execute 22 and 71; if standing at first position, (3,) they will execute 23 only.

 

NUMBER — PARRY SECOND OR (OCTAVE.) NUMBER

IN SECONDE OR (OCTAVE.) LONGE OUT.

 

81.The number to longe will, at the word seconde or octave, execute 30, 31, 32, or 57, 58, 59, as the case may be. The number to parry will, if the thrust is seconde, execute 33, if octave, 60.

 

 

 

26                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Thrusts and Parries united.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

82.  (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — PARRY QUINTE OR (DEMI-CIRCLE.) NUMBER —

IN QUINTE OR (DEMI-CIRCLE.) LONGE OUT.

 

83.  The number to longe will, at the word quinte, or­ demi—circle, execute 42, 43. 44, or 53, 54, 55, as the case may be. The number to parry will, if the thrust is quinte, execute 46, if demi-circle, 56.

84. The instructor will practice the preceding thrusts and parries united in both two and one motions (62 and 63;) and also in one motion advancing and retreating, as follows:

 

NUMBER — IN — LONGE OUT OR (DISENGAGE)--ADVANCE.

 

85.  The number indicated to longe or disengage will, at the word advance, execute 11, and deliver the thrust called; the other number will execute 12, and parry the thrust de­livered, the commands to RETREAT and to PARRY being understood.

86.  It is desirable, for promptness and accuracy of execution, that the pupils should not be fatigued; to prevent this the instructor will frequently, during the exercise, give the commands:

 

FIRST POSITION—REST.

 

87. At the command first position, the pupils, being on guard, will immediately draw hack the right foot to the left, and stand erect as at 3. At the command rest, apo­sition of ease will he taken, retaining the left foot steadily inits place; the foil will be held, gripe clasped in the right hand, blade point up, passing over left fore-arm and under left arm-pit; left hand resting upon right wrist.

88.  To resume the exercise the instructor will command:

 

FIRST POSITION.

 

89.  (See 69.)   After which, the engagement, or guard

 

 

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       27

 

Feints.

 

of quarte (78) or tierce (80) will be assumed by command, and the practice continued.

FEINTS.

 

90.Feints are used in attacks to procure openings, and consist in threatening in a direction different from that in ‘which it is intended to thrust. To succeed they must be executed with rapidity and accuracy. The simple feint consists of two movements, one and two; the double feint of’ three, one, two, and three. The pupils will be exercised in the feints, first without the parries, that they may be accustomed to direct their points with quickness and deci­sion.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

91.(See 78.)

 

NUMBER — MARK ONE, TWO. LONGE OUT.

 

92.The number indicated will, at the word longe out, change to tierce, (71,) and as his antagonist covers himself with the guard of tierce, deceive his guard by quickly dis­engaging quarte, (38, 39, 40, 74, 75.)

 

NUMBER — MARK ONE, TWO, THREE. LONGE OUT.

 

93.The number indicated will, at the word longe out, change to tierce, (71;) on his antagonist covering himself with the guard of tierce, he will quickly change back to quarte, (72,) and as his antagonist again covers himself with the guard of quarte, deceive his guard by rapidly dis­engaging quarte over the arm, (48, 49, 50, 74, 75.)

94.By similar commands and movements, the feints of one, two, and one, two, three, are marked on the engage­ments of tierce, demi-circie, and octave. On the engage­ment of tierce, to mark one, two, change first to quarte, and disengage quarte over the arm; to mark one, two, three, change first to quarte, then, without reversing the hand,

 

 

 

28                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Feints.

 

to tierce and disengage quarte. By not reversing the hand to tierce in the second movement, quickness is gained in the disengagement. On the engagement of demi-circle, to mark one, two, change to octave by passing over the ad­verse blade, close to its shoulder, and describing as small a curve as possible, and then, in same manner, disengage demi-circle; to mark one, two, three, change first to octave, then back to demi-circle, and disengage octave. On the en­gagement of octave, to mark one, two, change to demi­-circle by passing over the adverse blade, and, in same manner, disengage octave; to mark one, two, three, change first to demi -circle, then back to octave, and disengage demi­-circle. On the engagement of tierce, the feints of one, two, and one, two, three, in seconde, are executed as fol­lows:

 

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

95. (See 80.)

 

NUMBER — MARK ONE, TWO IN SECONDE. LONGE OUT.

 

96.The number indicated will, at the word longe out, drop his point, forming seconde as at 30, (with the excep­tion of the left hand, which remains in the position of the guard,) (4,) and on his antagonist covering himself with the parry of seconde, (33,) disengage quarte or quarte over the arm, (the opposition depending upon the parry which may be formed to throw off the thrust, either prime (29) or qaarte over the arm,) (52,) by sustaining the band well up, and reversing it to quarte, using the wrist only, at the same time raising the point.

 

NUMBER — MARK ONE, TWO, THREE IN SECONDE. LONGE

OUT.

 

97.The number indicated will, at the word longe out, threaten seconde as at 96, then quarte or quarte over the arm as at 96, and disengage seconde (30, Si, 32,) by quickly reversing the hand to tierce and dropping the point.

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                      29

 

Counters.

 

COUNTERS.

 

98.It was remarked at 73, that “in an assault, by changing rapidly from one engagement to another, an ad­versary’s play may be spoilt, and, at the same time, one’s own combinations furthered.” To frustrate this game, resort is had to another movement termed a Counter, from its being contrary or opposed to a change, (73.) It consists simply in following the adverse blade, instead of opposing it, by a direct change of the guard, by passing under or over it, (according to the engagement,) and describing with the point a complete circle, thus returning to the original guard or engagement from which the change was attempt­ed. In executing the counters the wrist only is to be used, the arm remaining steady.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

99.(See 78.)

 

NUMBER — CHANGE TO TIERCE. NUMBER — COUNTER ON

QUARTE.

 

100.  The number to change will, at the word quarte, change to tierce; the other number will, immediately on the change, execute as directed the counter on quarte, (98,) bringing his opponent back to the engagement of quarte.

101.  By similar commands and movements, counters are taken upon the engagements of prime, seconde, tierce, quarte over the arm, demi-circle, and octave.

102.  In addition to the use of counters, already ex­plained, they are of still greater importance as applied to the parries, forming a new class termed round parries, the most beautiful and useful in fencing. For this reason the instructor will be particular in practising the counters on all the engagements, (100) and (101,) until they can be executed quickly and delicately, with a steady arm, free motion of the wrist, and describing with the point as small a circle as possible.

 

 

 

 

30                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Round Parries.

 

ROUND PARRIES.

 

103.  Round parries are compound movements, and con­sist essentially of the counters described at 98, applied to and preceding any simple parry, with a slight additional movement of the hand in the direction of the thrust for the purpose of complete security. They must be executed with quickness and exactness, as there is danger of catch­ing the adverse blade too late, and forcing its point higher than it was aimed, into the breast or face, ins tend of throw­ing it off. Round parries are particularly favorable for ripostes, as they uncover an antagonist.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

104.  (See 78.)

 

NUMBER DISENGAGE QUARTE OVER THE ARM. NUM­BER — ROUND PARRY OF QUARTE. LONGE OUT.

 

105.  At the command longe out, the number directed to thrust will disengage quarte over the arm, (79.) The number to parry will throw off the thrust with the round parry of quarte, (103 and 41.)

106.  By similar commands and movements are executed the round parries of prime, seconde, tierce, quarte over the arm, demi-circle, and octave, by engaging in prime, seconde, &c., and disengaging the opposite thrust.

107.  The round parries of quarte, tierce, quarte over the arm, octave, and demi-circie, are the most essential. The round parries of prime and seconde are rather awk­ward, and not of much use to one who can execute the others with judgment and skill.

 

COUNTER DISENGAGEMENTS AND DOUBLING.

 

108.  Counter disengagements are compound movements, and are made upon an adversary’s attempt to frustrate a change (73) by a counter, (98.) They consist, essentially, of a change and a disengagement.

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       31

 

Doubling.

 

 

109.  Doubling (also a compound movement) is simply connecting and preceding a parry with two counters, (los,) rapidly executed, and is particularly applied to par­rying counter disengagements.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

110.  (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — COUNTER DISENGAGE QUARTE OVER THE ARM.

NUMBER — DOUBLE OF QUARTE. LONGE OUT.

 

111.  At the command longe out, the number to disengage will first change tierce, (71,) and on his antagonist executing the counter on quarte, (100,) will quickly disen­gage quarte over the arm. The number to parry, executing rapidly and delicately a second counter on quarte, throws off the thrust with the parry of quarte, (109, 103, and 41.)

112.  By similar commands and movements are executed the counter disengagements and doubles of prime, seconde, tierce, quarte over the arm, demi-circle, and octave.

113.  The counter disengagements should be practised first without the parries, that the pupils may be habituated to a quick and correct development.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32                                                             SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Wall Practice.

 

PART IV.

 

WALL PRACTICE.

 

114.  This consists in thrusting alternately tierce and quarte, either at a target, the height of the breast, or at an antagonist, by engaging or disengaging, while he opposes by forming the parries of tierce and quarte. Easy as this may appear, it embraces every thing requisite for acquiring a correct position on guard, quickness and delicacy in executing disengagements, and firmness and steadiness in longeing and recovering. Its simplicity prevents, at first, its use and advantages from being duly appreciated, but practice will soon convince any one desirous of fencing well, that it should form a part of his daily exercise. It is recommended by all masters as the best criterion of a fencer’s ability, enabling one to judge, as it were, at a glance, of his progress and proficiency. It is always preceded by a salute.

115.  The squads being formed in couples, (68,) and at attention, (66,) the instructor will command:

 

SALUTE.

 

116.  Raise the right hand to the head, giving the ordi­nary military salute of recognition.

FIRST POSITION.

 

117.  (See 69.)

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

118.  (See 23.)

 

RECOVER.

 

119.  Resume the first position; foil held perpendicu­larly, point up, and opposite to the right eye; guard at the height of the shoulder; elbow supported against the body.

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        33

 

Wall Practice.

 

NUMBER — PROVE DISTANCE.

 

120.  At this command, the number indicated will take successively and deliberately the positions of the guard and the development, longeing in quarte at his antagonist’s breast. The other number, dropping the point of his foil, by extending the arm so that the right hand (in quarte) may be brought to the side of the right thigh, and assum­ing the extension, (6,) will, retaining this position and moving his feet backwards or forwards, as may be necessary, place himself within measure of his antagonist’s thrust. As soon as the number indicated shall have cor­rectly measured his longe, both, without further command, will resume the recover, (119.)

SALUTE QUARTE.

 

121. Both numbers will form the parry of quarte, (41.)

 

SALUTE TIERCE.

 

122. Both numbers raising their points, and drawing back their right hands to the recover, (119,) to avoid clash­ing the blades, will form the parry of fierce, (37.)

ON GUARD.

 

123. Standing as at 122, both numbers dropping their points and describing with them, by a circular motion of the wrist and arm, large circles, passing by the left rear to the front, at the same time raising the left hand with a circular motion by the front, between the foil and the body, will assume the engagement of quarte, (22.)

 

NUMBER — IN TIERCE. LONGE OUT.

 

124.  The number indicated, which will always be the one that has proved distance, (120,) will, at the command longe out, quickly and dexterously disengage fierce, (34, 35, 36, and 75,) developing correctly and well, with good elevation and opposition. On being parried, he will allow

 

 

 

34                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.   

 

Wall Practice.

 

the blade to fly back, inwards and towards his body by extending the fingers, the arm remaining steady. To allow the blade to assume readily and gracefully this position, to which it must be driven by the force of the parry, requires a susceptibility of the fingers and wrist which can only be obtained by close practice. The number parrying will throw off the thrust by the parry of tierce, (37,) and imme­diately assume the position of the parry of seconde, (33.) Both will remain in position until the command:

 

IN TIERCE—ON GUARD.

 

125.  At the word guard, the number longeing will quick­ly return to guard, (9,) simultaneously assuming the en­gagement of tierce, (23;) the number parrying, raising his point, will take the same engagement.

 

IN QUARTE. LONGE OUT.

 

126.  The same number as at 124 will quickly and dex­terously disengage quarte, (38, 39, 40, and 75,) developing well and correctly with good elevation and opposition. On being parried, he will allow the blade to fly back over the hand, obliquely outward, the gripe being retained by the thumb and fore and second fingers, the arm remaining steady. The number parrying will throw off the thrust by the parry of quarte, (41,) and immediately assume the parry of demi-circle, (56.) Both will remain in position until the command:

 

IN QUARTE—ON GUARD.

 

127.  At the word guard, the number longeing will quick­ly return to guard, (9,) simultaneously assuming the en­gagement of quarte. (22;) the number parrying, raising his point, will take the same engagement.

128.  By repeating the commands, 124, (omitting the words NUMBER —,) 125, 126, and 127, the same number may be continued longeing.

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        35

 

Practices.

 

129.  To change the number longeing, the pupils being engaged in either tierce (125) or quarte, (127,) the in­structor will give the commands, (119,) then (120, 121, 122, 128, &c.)

130.  After a few thrusts delivered in this manner, the instructor, when the pupil longeing is on the development, will simply order LONGE OUT, instead of ON GUARD, as at 126 and 127; at which command he will recover to guard, and without pause disengage, according to the principle given, alternately longeing tierce and quarte, resting again upon the development; the other number will parry, alter­nately, tierce and quarte, as at 124 and 126, meeting promptly his adversary’s return to guard and engagement.

131.  The instructor will be careful not to keep the pu­pil longeing long on the development, by making two great a pause between his commands, as a stiff habit may be contracted which will prevent an easy, graceful, and swift recovery to guard.

132.  The wall practice should be exercised first without measure, to accustom the pupils to a good elevation, then within measure, to touch.

133.  The target practice is executed by the same com­mands, and on the same principles, with the exception of the positions of the foil at 124- and 126 after thrusting, in­stead of which it will remain in the direction of the thrust, the point touching the target. In proving distance, also, the pupil will put himself within measure of the target, by developing well, and in this position, moving his feet back­wards or forwards, as may be necessary, until he shall be able just to touch the target by a correct development ‘with good elevation. Having determined his measure he should, ‘with a piece of chalk, mark the position of his feet, that his deviations from a correct development in each longe may be observed.

 

PRACTICES ON THE DIFFERENT ENGAGEMENTS.

 

134.  The following practices, as all others, should be thoroughly explained, and executed slowly two or three times, that the pupils may fully comprehend what they,

 

 

36                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Practices.

 

respectively, have to do, and observe the correct manner of doing it; afterwards the object will be, for the number longeing to touch his adversary if possible, and for the other to throw off the thrust.

 

ON THE RIPOSTE.

 

135.  ENGAGE IN QUARTE—see 78. NUMBER — DISEN­GAGE TIERCE. NUMBER — PARRY TIERCE AND RIPOSTE IN TIERCE. LONGE OUT.

136.  At the command longe out, the number ordered to disengage will rapidly execute 79, developing well and correctly, and trying to touch his adversary, immediately returning to guard (9;) the other number will parry with tierce, and if successfully, rapidly longe tierce in riposte, which the first number must parry if possible; after which both return to the engagement of quarte.

137.  In any practice, should either party touch, the practice will end there, and both return at once to the en­gagement, recommencing the practice.

138.  In a similar manner are executed the following practices, the commands for which only are given.

139. Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry quarte and riposte in quarte. Longe out.

140.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte and riposte quarte. Longe out.

141.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte and riposte, (his antagonist covering himself by bearing against his blade,) by disengaging quarte over the arm. Longe out.

142.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce and riposte tierce. Longe out.

143.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce and riposte, (his antagonist covering himself by bearing against his blade,) by disengaging quarte.  Longe out.

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        37

 

Parries of Prime and Seconde.

 

144.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with the round parry of quarte, and riposte with the feint one—two. Longe out.

145.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the feint one—two——three. Longe out.

146.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte with the feint one—two. Longe out.

147. Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte.  Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte with the feint one—two——three. Longe out.

148.  (This practice, involving alternate longeing and parrying, requires particular attention.) Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number —parry with the round parry of quarte and riposte, (141,) disengaging quarte over the arm. Number — (the first called) parry with round parry of quarte and riposte, (141,) disengaging quarte over the arm. Number — (the second  ti called) parry with round parry of quarte and riposte, coun­ter disengaging quarte over the arm, (his antagonist having taken the counter of quarte on his change.) Number —(the first called) parry with tierce and riposte seconde. Number — (the second called) parry with demi-circie, and   IF riposte with quarte. Longe out. This is a beautiful prac­tice, hut each number, to execute it well, must thoroughly understand what he has to do.

 

ON THE PARRIES OF PRIME AND SECONDE.

 

149.  The parry of prime is an excellent one against a bad fencer; it is also of great advantage when one’s an­tagonist is taller than one’s self.

150.  The parry of seconde is the quickest and most di­rect when one’s parry of prime has been deceived; as a general rule it should not be resorted to as a first move­ment, if it can be avoided, as it leaves the upper part of the person too open. It is excellent against an antagonist,

3

 

 

 

38                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

Parries of Prime and Seconde.

 

who, holding his hand in tierce, thrusts repeatedly and wildly.

151.  Engage in tierce. Number — direct thrust of quarte over the arm. Number — parry with prime. Longe out.

152. Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce, and riposte with seconde. Number (first called) parry with demi-circle, and riposte with quarte. Number — (second called) parry with prime. Lonbe out.

153.  Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce, and riposte disengaging quarte. Number — (first called) parry with prime.

154.  If, on parrying any thrust of an antagonist, seconde for instance, with the parry of demi-circle well formed, and he should be too close to admit the riposte of quarte, (the point in such case being past his body,) by sustaining the hand well and reversing the nails to fierce, without, however, quitting his blade, the point will be brought in line with his person, and the thrust of prime naturally follow.

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                         39

 

Cuts over the Point.

 

PART V.

 

CUTS OVER THE POINT.

 

155.  So farwe have passed from one side to the other of an adverse blade by carrying the point, in a small circle, close to its shoulder. We now take up the consideration of another manner of disengaging, termed cutting over the point., This is done, from either the engagement of quarte or tierce, when an antagonist, carrying his hand low, at the same time bears upon our blade with the feeble of his own. Cuts over the point, when well executed, particu­larly in riposte, are very difficult to parry.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

156. (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — CUT QUARTE OVER THE ARM. LONGE OUT.

 

157.  The number indicated, keeping his arm steady, will turn the hand well up in quarte, and, at the same time raising his point, pass his blade over and close to his an­tagonist’s point, and quickly deliver the thrust of quarte over the arm.

 

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

158.  (See 80.)

 

NUMBER — CUT QUARTE. LONGE OUT.

 

159.  The number indicated, keeping his arm steady, will reverse the hand to quarte with a free, unconstrained motion of the wrist, and, at the same time raising his point, pass his blade over and close to his antagonist’s point, and quickly deliver the thrust of quarte.

160.  The cuts over the point will be practised first with­out parrying, that the pupils may be habituated to a ready and correct extension, and an exact delivery of the point.

 

 

 

 

40                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

Cuts over the Point.

 

PRACTICES ON CUTS OVER THE POINT.

 

161.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm. Longe out.

162.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte with the cut of quarte. Longe out.

163.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with the round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm. Number — (first called) parry with tierce and riposte with seconde. Number — (second called) parry with demi-circle, and elevating the hand riposte with quarte. Num­ber — (first called) parry with quarte and riposte, disen­gaging quarte over the arm. Number — (second called) parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm; but seeing his antagonist cov­ering himself by forming either the parry of tierce or quart over the arm, quickly drop the point and disengage quarte. This is to cut and disengage. (In the same manner, the feint of one, two, or of one, two, three, may be marked after either cut.) Longe out.

164.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm and disen­gagement of quarte, (163;) but seeing his antagonist Cov­ering himself from the disengaged thrust with the parry of quarte, finish the riposte by cutting a second time quarte over the arm. Longe out.

165.  Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce and riposte with the cut of quarte; but seeing his adversary covering himself with the parry of quarte, finish the riposte by cutting quarte over the arm. Longe out.

166.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm; but seeing

 

 

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       41

 

Beats and False Beats.

 

his adversary covering himself with the parry of tierce and hand rather high, drop the point, reversing the hand, and finish the riposte with the thrust of seconde. (In the same manner the feint of one, two, or ones two, three, on se­conde, may be marked.) Longe out.

BEATS AND FALSE BEATS.

 

167.  Beats and false beats are attacks upon an adversa­ry’s blade for the purpose of embarrassing him and getting openings for thrusts.

168.  A beat is an abrupt collision with the fort against the feeble of the adverse blade. It is exceedingly difficult to execute, as it should be done altogether with the wrist, avoiding any movement of the arm or shoulder. A direct thrust ordinarily follows a beat.

169.  A false beat is a slight shock with the feeble against the fort of the adverse blade, and like a beal, to be done altogether with the wrist. A disengagement or feint (sin­gle or double) cut, &c., &c., ordinarily follows a false beat.

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

170. (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — BEAT IN QUARTE.

 

171.  The number indicated, his arm supple and wrist free, will turn his hand well in quarte, without quitting his adversary’s blade, and returning it to half tierce or half quarte, (the position of the engagement) by this return movement produce the beats.

 

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

172.  (See 80.)

 

NUMBER—BEAT IN TIERCE.

 

173.  The number indicated, turning his hand well to tierce, without quitting his adversary’s blade, and quickly

 

 

 

 

 

42                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Menaces.

 

reversing it to quarte, well up, will, by this return move­ment, produce the beat. The arm as at 171, supple and free.

174.  The false beats in quarte and tierce are executed in the same manner.

175.  If on guard with a light and supple wrist, as one should always be, a beat is not much to he feared, as by a quick disengagement it is not only avoided, but the aggres­sive being assumed, an antagonist must quickly assume the defensive to throw off the thrust. To avoid the beat in quarte, disengage quarte over the arm. To avoid that in tierce, disengage quarte.

 

PRACTICES ON THE BEATS,

 

176.  Engage in quarte. Number — avoid the beat. Number — beat in quarte. Beat.

177. Engage in tierce. Number — avoid the beat. Number — beat in tierce. Beat.

MENACES.

 

178.  Menaces are made generally on the engagements of quarte or tierce, by suddenly elevating slightly the hand. and lowering a little the point, as if about to longe. In assaults, appels and exclamations are generally added. The object is to intimidate one’s adversary, and cause him to bear against one’s blade, or make some other movement which will give an opportunity for a thrust. In making menaces the body should be held well back, and the blade not so far engaged as to afford an opportunity of being crossed or beat, or to prevent a rapid disengagement. If one’s antagonist does not answer to a menace, seeming un­certain what to do, rapidly deliver a direct thrust.

 

PRACTICES ON THE MENACES.

 

179.  Engage in tierce. Number — menace- quarte over-the arm (with appels) and disengage seconde. Longe out.

180.  Engage in quarte. Number — menace quarte (with. appels) and cut quarte over the arm. Longe out.

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        43

 

Time Thrusts.

 

TIME THRUSTS.

 

181. Time thrusts, or thrusts in opposition, are made, instantaneously seizing the moment when an adversary, through awkwardness, dilatoriness, or wildness in his parries, thrusts, or feints, uncovers his person. They require a quick eye, susceptible wrist, firm hand, and a ready and correct development, covering with a gradual and strong opposition. These being some of the most beautiful and skilful thrusts in fencing, beginners are apt to be attracted by them, and in assaults, to look for opportunities of mak­ing them, neglecting their counters and parries. The instructor will impress upon his pupils, that the opportuni­ties for time thrusts must only be seized, not looked for. The principal time thrusts are those of quarte, tierce, quarte over the arm, seconde, and octave, and are executed as follows:

182.  If, engaged in quarte, one’s adversary’s guard should be observed to be badly formed, hand low and not cover­ing, the opportunity should be instantly seized, and the direct thrust of quarte delivered.

183.        If, engaged in quarte, one’s adversary disengages badly the thrust of quarte over the arm, the opening, mo­mentarily offered, should be seized, and the thrust of tierce or quarte over the arm delivered.

184.  If, engaged in tierce, one’s adversary’s guard is observed to be incorrect, as at 182, the thrust quarte over the arm should be instantly delivered. In making this thrust, be prepared for the parry in prime, which can be readily formed, and the riposte in prime.

185.  If, engaged in tierce, one’s adversary disengages badly the thrust of quarte, the opening, momentarily of­fered, should be seized, and the thrust of quarte delivered.

186. If an adversary should, from demi-circie, disengage seconde or octave, an opportunity for the thrust of seconde or octave is offered.

187.  If from tierce an adversary should disengage se­conde under the hand, instead of under the shoulder of his

 

 

 

 

44                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Stop Thrusts.

 

opponent’s blade, an opportunity for the thrust of octave is offered.

188.  If, on the engagement of quarte, an adversary at­tempts the cut of quarte over the arm, an opportunity for the thrust of quarte over the arm is offered.

189.  In making time thrusts there must be no hesitation nor want of exactness, otherwise, instead of a time thrust, a thrust out of time, one of the greatest blunders in fencing, may be the result. Thrusts out of time are thrusts without opposition, or intended as time thrusts, but awkwardly or tardily executed. By the merest chance they may be suc­cessful, but generally the result will be thrust for thrust— that is, both parties touching, considered one of the most disgraceful occurrences that can happen in an assault, the true principle being to owe nothing to chance, but every thing to skill, and to touch without being touched.

190.  The commands for executing the time thrusts are as follows:

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE (OR TIERCE.)

 

191.  (See 78 or 80, as the case may be.)

 

NUMBER — DISENGAGE—(or whatever case is desired.) NUMBER— TIME THRUST OF —. LONGE OUT.

 

192.  (See 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, as the ease may be.)

STOP THRUSTS.

 

193.  These are time thrusts upon the advance of an antagonist, and are classed among the best in fencing, and particularly useful against an adversary who commits the too common error of changing as he advances. Stop thrusts should be delivered always as the antagonist’s foot is raised from the ground, and will, if well aimed, be gen­erally successful.

194.  If engaged in quarte an adversary should advance; with his band low, the stop thrust would be quarte direct; if low and bearing upon his opponent’s blade, cut of quarte

         

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       45

 

Repeats.

 

over the arm; if with his blade directly before him, with­out a decided guard, the feint of one, two, or one, two, three; if on attempting a feint he should counter, counter disengage quarte over the arm; if with his hand high, and bearing against his opponent’s blade, seconde or octave, (seconde is the best as the hand in it is higher.)

196.  If engaged in tierce, an adversary should advance; with his hand low, the stop thrust would be tierce or quarte over the arm; if low and bearing upon his opponent’s blade, cut quarte; if with his hand before him without adecided guard, the feint of one, two, or one, two, three; if on attempting a feint he should counter, counter disengage quarte; if with his hand high and bearing against his an­tagonist’s blade, prime or demi-circle.

196.  If an adversary changes as he advances, thrust direct along his blade, (291.)

197.  In advancing, the adverse blade should always be felt well but lightly; if lost, it should be regained by a small, quick, steady counter.

198.  The commands for executing the stop thrusts are as follows:

ENGAGE IN QUARTE (OR TIERCE.)

 

199.  (See 78 or 80, as the case may be.)

 

NUMBER — ADVANCE WITH THE HAND—(whatever case may be desired.) NUMBER — STOP THRUST OF -—. ADVANCE.

 

200.  At the command advance, the number indicated will step forward, and for the rest see 194, 195, 196, 197, as the case may be.

REPEATS.

201.  A repeat is a movement made upon an adversary who, after parrying a thrust, quits his opponent’s blade as he is recovering to guard, to deliver a riposte, or, committing a greater error, advances upon him for the same purpose. It is executed thus: If after delivering an un­successful thrust, and about to return to guard, an adver-­

 

 

 

 

46                                                         SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Repeats.

 

sary, through eagerness or want of skill, commits either of the above mentioned errors, the feet should be kept in their position, (that of the development,) the body only drawn back, throwing up the left arm, making, as it were, a half or a false recovery to guard, and again projected forward on the longe, delivering a second time the thrust, taking the opposition strongly. To execute it the commands are as follows:

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE (OR TIERCE.)

 

202.  (See 78 or 80.)

 

NUMBER —       LONGE (OR DISENGAGE) AND REPEAT. NUM­BER — PARRY. LONGE OUT.

 

203.  At the command longe out, the couple will respect­ively execute what is directed at 201.

 

SECONDE IN REPEAT.

 

204.  Some times in assaults fencers are met with who, after using the parry of prime or demi-circle, give no ri­poste. When this is perceived to be the case, on an an­tagonist’s forming either of these parries, the thrust seconde in repeat may be delivered. It is executed thus remain­ing on the development, (201,) and sustaining the hand well up and using it only, the point is passed over and close to the adverse blade, and the thrust of seconde executed.

 

PRACTICE ON SECONDE IN REPEAT.

206.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — round parry of quarte, and riposte with counter disengagement of quarte over the arm, Number — (first called) parry with tierce and riposte with seconde. Number — (second called) parry with demi-circle. Number — (first called) seconde in repeat. Longe out.

206.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce and riposte

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       47

 

Crossing.

 

with seconde. Number — (first called) parry with demi­-circle and riposte with quarte. Number — (second called) parry with prime. Number — (first called) seconde in repeat. Longe out. F

 

CROSSING.

207.  This is a movement particularly useful against an adversary who has an extended guard, or who, being a weak swordsman, resorts on his opponent’s motion to thrust, to the extension (6,) holding his foil before him at arm’s length to keep him off; or who fences with a great deal of strength. If well done, quickly and with the wrist only, it will always succeed in turning aside the, adverse point— may possibly disarm; at all events, will make an opening for a thrust. It is impossible to resist a cross if well exe­cuted.       

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

208. (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — CROSS IN SECONDE. LONGE OUT.

 

209.  At the command longe out, the number indicated, holding the adverse blade firmly with his own, will turn his hand quickly to tierce, passing his point oyer his an­tagonist’s fort, and form seconde, at the same time raising his hand to prevent his adversary from destroying the effect of his cross by disengaging. By this movement the adverse point is forced to the right. Longe in seconde.

 

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

210.  (See 80.)

 

NUMBER CROSS IN DEMI-CIRCLE. LONGE OUT.

 

211.  At the command longe out, the number indicated, holding the adverse blade firmly with his own, will turn his hand quickly to quarte, raising it to the height of his

 

 

 

 

48                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

                  

Binding.

 

mouth, and passing his point over his antagonist’s fort, form demi-circle. By this movement the adverse point is forced to the left. Longe demi-circle.

212.  The cross of demi-circle forms a pretty large angle, seizes powerfully the adverse blade, giving such a shock to an adversary’s hand as will either disarm him or at the least jar him so much that he will not be able to recover quickly enough to parry the thrust of demi-circle.

213.  To execute heats and crosses well requires great and careful practice, otherwise, instead of forming the wrist delicately and flexibly, stiffness and inflexibility will he the result. In good assaults beats and crosses are rarely resorted to, as good fencers will always carry their hands firmly, yet so flexibly, that they are enabled not only to evade beats or crosses by yielding, but even to take ad­vantage of them by disengaging.

 

BINDING.

 

214.  This is a movement after a parry, and consists in crossing over or under the adverse blade, securing or bind­ing it, and by a sudden jerk of the wrist throwing it off, making an opening for a riposte; for instance:

ENGAGE IN TIERCE.

 

215.        (See 80.)

 

NUMBER — LONGE SECONDE. NUMBER — PARRY WITH SECONDE OR OCTAVE—BIND AND RIPOSTE WITH QUARTE. LONGE OUT.

 

216.  At the command longe out, the number indicated will deliver the thrust of seconde; the other number will parry with seconde or octave, cross his blade under that of his antagonist, (with or without a reversal of the hand, as the parry is seconde or octave,) and with a jerk of the wrist, raising the hand, bind it and throw it off to the left, and longe quarte.

217.  In a similar manner, after the parry of demi-circle,

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        49

 

Flanconnade.

 

the adverse blade may be bound and thrown off to the right, opening for the riposte of tierce or quarte over the arm.

 

FLANCONNADE.

 

218.  This thrust takes its name from being aimed at the flank, and is formed from the engagement of quarte, when the adverse point is low, by quickly crossing the blade, seizing forcibly its feeble, dropping at the same time one’s own point and thrusting octave, covering well outwards. It is recommended also, when longeing flanconnade, to bring down the left hand in front of the person, with the hack to the breast, for the purpose of seizing and turning aside the adverse blade, if there is danger of running upon its point; this precaution, however, will not be necessary if the opposition of octave is well taken.

219.  Flanconnade may be parried either by opposing with octave strongly, or better, by relaxing the wrist im­mediately on being crossed, offering no resistance, but allowing the blade to be carried freely around, and forming quickly the parry of quarte (41) or quinte, (46,) as the thrust is high or low.

 

ENGAGE IN QUARTE.

 

220.  (See 78.)

 

NUMBER — THRUST FLANCONNADE. NUMBER — PARRY

FLANCONNADE. LONGE OUT.

 

221.  At the command longe out, the couple will execute what is laid down for each number, respectively, at 218 and 219.

222.  Flanconnade, when executed as a riposte after the parry of quarte, should be parried thus: remain on the de­velopment, and quickly reversing the hand form seconde with a good elevation and opposition. The adversary will be caught upon the point. Plate II.

 

 

 

50                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

                  

Practices.

 

NUMBER — FEINT FLANCONNADE. LONGE OUT.

 

223.  At the command longe out, the number indicated will cross slightly his opponent’s blade as if about to thrust flanconnade, but quickly raising his hand, deliver the thrust quarte or quarte over the arm, as the opposition may be necessary.

 

PRACTICES.

 

ON ROUND PARRIES AND DOUBLES OF QUARTE & TIERCE.

 

224. Engage in quarte. Number— disengage quarte over the arm. Number— parry with round parry of quarte and riposte, as your adversary rises, by disengaging quarte over the arm. Longe out.

225.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte as your adversary rises, by disengaging quarte. Longe out.

226.  Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with the double of quarte, and riposte, as your antagonisf rises, by counter disengaging quarte over the arm. Longe out.

227.  Engage in tierce. Number — counter disengage quarte. Number — parry with double of tierce or quarte over the arm, and riposte, as your antagonist rises, by counter disengaging quarte. Longe out.

228.  Extend the preceding practices, each number ex­ecuting several disengagements or counter disengagements and parries alternately, before returning to guard.

 

ON ROUND PARRY AND DOUBLE OF DEMI-CIRCLE.

 

229.  Engage in quarte. Number — longe in demi­circle. Number — parry with demi.circle, and riposte, as your antagonist rises, by disengaging seconde or octave. Number — (first called) parry with round parry of demi. circle.

230.  Engage in quarte. Number — longe demi-circle. Number — parry with demi-circle, and riposte, as your

               SWORD EXERCISE.                              51

 

Practices.

 

antagonist rises, by counter disengaging seconde or octave. Number — (first called) parry with double of demi-circle.

231.  Extend the preceding practices, each number ex­ecuting several disengagements or counter disengagements and parries, alternately, before returning to guard.

 

ON ROUND PARRY AND DOUBLE OF OCTAVE.

232.  Engage in quarte over the arm. Number — longe in octave. Number — parry with octave, and riposte, as your adversary rises, by disengaging quarte. Number —(first called) parry with round parry of octave.

233.  Engage in quarte over the arm. Number — longe in octave. Number — parry with octave, and riposte, as your adversary rises, by counter disengaging quarte. Num­ber (first called) parry with double of octave.

234.  Preceding practices extended.

 

ON ROUND PARRY AND DOUBLE OF PRIME.

 

235.  Engage in quarte over the arm. Number — dis­engage quarte. Number — parry with prime, and, as your antagonist rises, riposte by disengaging seconde over his blade. Number — (first called) parry with round parry of prime.

236.  Engage in quarte over the arm. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with prime, and, as your adversary rises, riposte by counter disengaging seconde. Number (first called) parry with double of prime.

237.  Preceding practices extended.

 

ON ROUND PARRY AND DOUBLE OF SECONDE.

 

238.  Engage in tierce. Number — longe seconde. Number — parry with seconde, and riposte, as your ad­versary rises, by disengaging prime over his blade. Num­ber — (first called) parry with round parry of seconde.

239.  Engage in tierce. Number — longe seconde. Number — parry with seconde, and, as your antagonist

 

 

 

 

52                                                       SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Practices.

 

rises, riposte by counter disengaging prime. Number —(first called) parry with double of seconde.

240.  Preceding practices extended.

 

MISCELLANEOUS PRACTICES.

 

241.  Engage in quarte. Number — mark one, two. Number — parry with tierce and round parry of tierce.

242.  Engage in quarte. Number — mark one, two, three. Number — parry with tierce, quarte, and round parry of quarte.

243.  Engage in tierce. Number — mark one, two. Number — parry with quarte and round parry of quarte.

244.  Engage in tierce. Number — mark one, two, three. Number — parry with quarte, tierce, and round parry of tierce.

245.  Engage in quarte. Number mark one, two, three, in demi-circle. Number — parry with demi-circle, octave, and round parry of octave.

246.  Engage in quarte over the arm. Number — mark one, two, three, in octave. Number — parry with octave, demi-circie, and round parry of demi-circle.

247.  Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce and riposte, counter disengaging seconde, but seeing your ad­versary about to cover himself with either seconde or oc­tave, quickly raise the point and deliver quarte or quarte over the arm, (as the opposition may be,) thus marking one, two, in seconde.

248.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce and riposte, counter disengaging seconde, but seeing your adversary double demi-circle, threaten quarte over the arm, and on his resorting to prime, tierce, or quarte over the arm, drop the point and deliver seconde, thus marking one, two, three, in seconde.

249.  Engage in quarte. Number — counter disengage quarte over the arm, but observing your adversary resort­

 

 

 

 

      SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        53

 

Onthe Beats.

 

ing to tierce, either disengage quarte, cut quarte, mark one, two, or one, two, three.

260.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with the cut of quarte over the arm; but on your adversary resorting to the round parry of quarte, cut quarte over the arm a second time.

261.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte. Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte counter disengaging seconde; but your adversary resorting to demi-circle and octave, form quarte over the arm, and on your adversary executing the counter of quarte, disen­gage quarte over the arm.

252.  Engage in tierce. Number — disengage quarte~ Number — parry with round parry of tierce, and riposte counter disengaging seconde; but on your adversary resort­ing to demi-circle and octave, form quarte over the arm, and on his resorting to tierce or quarte over the arm, disengage quartet and on his resorting to the round parry of tierce or quarte over the arm, disengage quarte again.

253.  In all the preceding practices, the body must be retained well back, the hand moving rapidly, and the point describing small curves; the longe, when taken, and the recovery to guard, must be quick and decided.

ON THE BEATS.

 

254.  Engage in quarte. Number — appel and beat.

255.  Engage

Longe in quarte. in quarte. Number — beat, and observ­ing your adversary avoiding the beat by disengaging quarte over the arm, drop your point and longe quarte over the arm or tierce, thus delivering a time thrust. Tierce is the best, as the hand has greater elevation.

256.  Engage in quarte. Number menace quarte, and observing your adversary to extend his arm to the front, beat and longe direct.

257.Engage in quarte. Number— advance, (85,) beat and longe direct. Number — parry with prime. The parry of prime is recommended whenever the hand is not

4

 

 

 

54                                                        SWORD EXERCISE.                         

 

Onthe Beats.

 

ready enough to avoid the beat by disengaging quarte over the arm; from it the riposte of prime is prompt.

258.        Engage in quarte. Number — beat, but seeing your adversary yielding, and forming prime, disengage seconde.

259.        The preceding practice extended to the simple and double feints in seconde, (96 and 97.)

260.        Engage in tierce. Number — beat, longe tierce.

261.        Engage in tierce. Number — beat, and not meet­ing with much resistance, longe quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and riposte with quarte.

262.        Engage in tierce. Number — beat, disengage se­conde. In same manner mark one, two, and one, two, three, in seconde.

263.        Engage in tierce. Number — beat, disengage se­conde. Number — parry with demi-circle and riposte quarte. Number — (first called) parry quarte.

264.        Engage in fierce. Number — beat, mark one, two, three, in seconde. Number — parry, seconde, prime, seconde and riposte with quarte over the arm. Number—         (first called) parry with round parry of quarte, and ri­poste with the cut of quarte over the arm. Number —(second called) parry with tierce, and riposte with seconde. Number — (first called) parry with demi-circle, and ri­poste with quarte.

265.        Engage in tierce. Number — appel and beat. Number — avoid the beat by disengaging quarte. Num­ber — (first called) parry with quarte, and riposte with flanconnade, opposing the left hand, bind your antagonist’s blade with the counter of quarte as you rise, and if his hand is low, longe a second time quarte direct.

266.        Engage in quarte. Number — appel and beat. Number — avoid the beat by disengaging or counter dis­engaging quarte over the arm. Number — (first called) parry with round parry or double of quarte.

267.        Engage in tierce Number — beat. Number —avoid the beat by counter disengaging quarte. Number —(first called) parry with double of tierce.

 

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                    55

 

Cross in Seconde and Demi-circle.

 

ON THE CROSS IN SECONDE.

268.  Engage in quarte. Number — cross in seconde on your adversary’s extended guard, and sustaining thehand high, longe in seconde.

269.  Engage in quarte. Number —. On your adver­sary’s extended guard cross in seconde, but observing him yield to your cross, longe quarte over the arm. In the same manner mark the simple and double feint in seconde.

270.  Engage in quarte. Number—. On your adversary’s extended guard cross in seconde. Number — avoidby yielding and passing completely around, form demi-cir­cle. Number — (first called) counter disengage seconde. Number — (second called) parry with octave. In the same manner mark the simple and double feint in seconde.

271.  Engage in quarte. Number — cross in seconde, but your adversary resisting, beat tierce, and longe quarte over the arm or tierce.

272.  Engage in quarte. Number — cross in seconde, and longe seconde, recover binding your adversary’s blade in quarte, beat quarte and longe quarte direct.

 

ON THE CROSS IN DEMI-CIRCLE.

273.  Engage in tierce. Number — cross in demi-circle, and longe quarte.

274.  Engage in tierce. Number— cross in demi-circle, and not meeting with much resistance, beat quarte, and longe quarte.

275.  Engage in tierce. Number — cross in demi-circle, but not meeting with any resistance, bind with the counter of tierce, beat tierce, and longe tierce.

276.  Engage in quarte. Number— appel, change tierce, appel, advance, (85,) cross in demi-circle, but your adver­sary avoiding it by yielding, to form quarte, sustain the hand high and cross in seconde, longe seconde.

277.  Engage in tierce. Number — cross in demi-circle, and on your adversary’s avoiding the cross, cross again in seconde, and on his avoiding that also, cross a second time in demi-circle, and longe quarte.

 

 

 

 

56                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

                 

Thrusts.

 

278.  Engage in quarte. Number — as at 277, cross in seconde, then in demi-circle; a second time in seconde and longe seconde.

279. When fencing with an indifferent swordsman who, conscious of his inferiority, resorts to the extension of his arm (207) on every movement of his adversary, presenting his point to keep him off, or to cause him the risk of run­ning upon it, hold the body well back, menace, or make some other threatening movement to draw him to extend, and the instant he does so, cross or beat.

 

ON EVADING BEATS AND CROSSES.

 

280. Engage in quarte. Number — beat. Number —evade the beat by disengaging quarte over the arm. Beat.

281. Engage in tierce. Number — beat. Number —evade the beat by disengaging quarte. Beat.

282. Engage in quarte. Number — cross. Number —evade the cross by disengaging quarte over the arm. Cross.

283. Engage in tierce. Number — cross. Number —evade the cross by disengaging quarte. Cross.

284. To evade a cross requires a more susceptible and ready wrist than to evade a beat. The instructor should continue the exercise of evading Crosses and beats until it can be done promptly and with decision.

 

TOTHRUST UPON AN ANTAGONIST WHO CHANGES EITHER ON GUARD, OR IN THE ACT OF RECOVERING FROM A LONGE.

 

285. Many fencers change too frequently from one en­gagement to another when on guard; in this case, the moment your antagonist quits your blade in one of his changes, elevate quickly, and opposing either quarte or quarte over the arm, as he passes from tierce to quarte or quarte to tierce, Longe out. A tricky fencer changes his engagement continually—a good swordsman only for the purpose of combining his thrusts.

286. If after parrying a thrust from an antagonist with quarte, he in the act of recovering changes totierce, and

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                          57

 

Thrusts.

 

particularly if in his hurry he should engage falsely, ele­vate quickly, and Opposing well, longe quarte over the arm.

287. Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and on your antagonist changing while rising, evade the change by disengaging quarte.

288. Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and on your antagonist changing while rising, mark the feint of one, two. In same manner mark the double feint and counter disengagement.

289.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and on your antagonist changing while rising, give a false beat, and on his resisting it, disengage quarte. In like manner practise counter disengagement.

290.  Engage in quarte. Number — disengage quarte over the arm. Number — parry with round parry of quarte, and on your antagonist changing while rising, beat tierce, or cross in demi-circle, delivering your thrust. In the same manner practise the menace of quarte over the arm, delivering seconde and that of quarte, cutting quarte over the arm.

 

TO THRUST UPON AN ANTAGONIST WHO CHANGES WHILE

ADVANCING.

 

291.  If on the engagement of quarte an adversary should advance, and change while advancing, with his hand low, longe tierce or quarte over the arm; if with his hand high, longe in seconde; if not well covered, quarte over the arm.

292.  If engaged in tierce and he advances changing, with the hand low, longe quarte; if his hand is high, longe demi-circle, and if not well covered, longe quarte.

293.  The change may also be evaded by disengaging, by marking the single or double feint, or by counter-disengaging.

 

 

 

58                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

                  

Assaults.

 

294.  These it will be perceived are all stop thrusts, and to deliver them the position is firmly held, and the opposition readily and strongly seized, elevating well.

295. Opportunities for stop thrusts may sometimes be obtained by retreating, so as to draw your antagonist to advance upon you.

 

ITALIAN THRUST.

 

296. Engaged in tierce, menace as if going to thrust quarte over the arm, rapidly throw the left foot to the rear, dropping the body upon the right leg, bending forward, and disengaging and lowering the blade, plunge the point at your antagonist’s person, hand in tierce.

297. The Italians, also, sometimes resort to voltes to the right, left, and rear, to avoid thrusts. The manner of contending with such an adversary is to make a false movement to draw from him a longe, parry it and imme­diately riposte.

 

ASSAULTS.

 

298.  Before engaging in the assault the instructor will endeavor to impress upon his pupils that their ambition should be not so much to touch often as correctly; and above all, to cover their own persons ‘well; that they must hold themselves firmly, make their parries decidedly and with small movements; riposte readily, and particularly never parry twice in succession without making a riposte. In attacking, to endeavor to recall various combinations, delivering as many direct thrusts and rapid disengagements as possible; to feel well the adversary’s blade, and attack it to ascertain what sort of wrist he has, whether stiff and heavy, or flexible and light; to examine his position, rea­diness, &c., &c., that the nature of the attack may be de­termined, what movements, feints, &c., would be the most likely to succeed. Above all, to keep perfectly cool, so that their own movements may be well regulated.

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        59

 

Precautions.

 

PRECAUTIONS.

 

299.  Before joining in the assault, the following precau­tions may be taken. To avoid slipping, rub the sandal on a little crushed rosin or plaster, or scatter it on the floor where the assault is to be made; rub also the glove with chalk to give a more secure bold of the foil.

 

THE ASSAULT.

 

300.  When ready the parties take positions, facing each other, and precede the assault with the salute and a few passes in the wall practice, to supple the limbs and to habituate the hand to a good elevation. Rest ‘a few mo­ments, go through the salute again, and engage without measure to avoid a surprise. Approach with short and cautious steps, feeling each others’ blades, (298,) and once within measure keep steadily the proper distance. Dispute thrusts by every possible art, and never deliver more than two or three in quick succession. After a few passes re­cover to first position and rest, keeping the left foot in its place; the alignment is thus preserved, and disorder avoided.

301. To acquire and preserve good execution in assaults, the exercises of the wall practice and of the preceding les­sons must be constantly and faithfully adhered to.

 

DIFFERENCE IN HEIGHT.

 

302. Of two antagonists of equal skill, the shortest is always under great disadvantages. Small men, however, are generally well proportioned, nervous and vigorous, and by practice and the use of a long blade (not to exceed 33 inches) may acquire a development nearly as great as that of taller men, whose strength and weight are often hind­rances to a good development and to a quick recovery. Small men can parry as well as tall; it is moreover their interest to practice particularly this part of the exercise, and to endeavor to excel in it and in the riposte. The shorter man in assaults should always hold himself on the

 

 

 

 

 

60                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

                  

Precautions.

 

defensive, parrying rapidly and closely, and giving ripostes readily and in every direction; he should resort to attacks upon his adversary’s blade, menaces, beats, crosses, &c., whenever opportunities are offered, holding his body well back, and never developing a thrust but with judgment. The parries of prime and seconde, and their counters, are particularly useful to small men.

 

LEFT HANDED MEN.

 

303.  A left handed antagonist is one of the most difficult to contend with, for the reason that all engagements, dis­engagements, parries, &c., are in a measure reversed. Besides, right handed men generally contend with right handed men, whereas a left handed man is in the habit of contending with right handed men, (an assault between· left handed men being rare,) and consequently has the advantage of knowing exactly what to do. In fencing with a left handed man carry the hand, on either engagement, half tierce, and resort to beats and crosses.

 

THE GUARD.

 

304.  There is no fixed guard for assaults. It must vary with that of the adversary, and according to his style of fencing. A good swordsman will always resort to the proper guard; but men are often met with who carry the hand so low that it becomes necessary to lower the guard very much: some times so much that it almost touches the knee. Bad swordsmen generally thrust extremely low, and should, with such an one, a guard higher than that he. offers be taken, his blade may escape the parry altogether, or only be met with the feeble, which would very likely be too weak to throw off the thrust, bending under its force. The general rule is to meet a man with his own guard, good swordsmen as well as bad.

 

PARRYING.

 

305.  A fencer who, after a thrust, depends upon a quick recovery alone to save himself from a riposte, will never

 

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        61

 

General Observations.

 

attain to any great degree of excellence. The parrying, either on guard, on the development, or in passing from one to the other, must be done altogether with the hand. This induces a quick eye, ready hand, and perfect self-possession.

 

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS,

 

306. In contending with an adversary who keeps at a distance, never coming within measure, the following ex­pedient may be resorted to. Appel several times, playing with his blade to cover your intention; advance the right foot very slightly with each appel, drawing up the left until you shall have gained about six inches, then thrust rapidly.

307. Exclamations and appels are of great use in as­saults in confounding and disturbing an adversary.

308. A good swordsman shows his skill in knowing how and in what manner to contend with any one that may be opposnd to him. With a skilful antagonist he will call up all his art, studying every movement and concealing as much as possible his own intentions. With an indifferent one he will resort to attacks upon his weak points, and with those movements in which he appears to fail most; with one reckless, and who seeks thrust for thrust, he will attack his blade before thrusting, either by a menace or other false movement.

309. Never thrust upon a retreating antagonist; it is only useless, exertion and a dead loss of vigor.

310. In contending with one ignorant of fencing, observe that his hand will generally be in half tierce, and that allhis thrusts are low; a well elevated thrust then against suchan one would be dangerous, as he would at the same time touch below. Seconde and its counter, demi-circle, and octave, and a low guard, so as to intercept his thrusts, must be resorted to.

311. It would be advisable for pupils to practise, occasionally, with left handed men, and those ignorant of fencing, as well as with skilful antagonists, in order to be prepared for any case that may be presented.

 

 

 

62                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

                  

Conclusion.

              

CONCLUSION.

 

 

312.  It is often remarked, “that one ignorant of fenc­ing, bold and reckless, can not only meet with safety, but even conquer a good fencer”. This is not exactly true— his repeated and rapid thrusts and irregular movements would, it is not only possible but probable, confound and disconcert a swordsman accustomed only to a regular and precise execution; but a practised master of the weapon, who has carefully studied every case that may be opposed to him, will invariably come out conqueror from all such contests.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

           

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXERCISE

 

 

FOR THE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BROADSWORID, SABRE, CUT AND

THRUST, AND STICK:

 

ARRANGED BY

 

 

 

 

 

 

BREVET MAJOR H. C. WAYNE,

 

U. S. ARMY,

 

LATE DIRECTOR OF THE  SWORD EXERCISE IN THE U. S.

MILITARY ACADEMY AT WEST POINT.

 

 

 

 

 

 

PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF THE WAR DEPARTMENT,

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WASHINGTON:

 

PRINTED BY GIDEON AND C0.

 

1849.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.

 

 

THE following system of Sword Exercise was primarily arranged for the instruction of the Cadets of the TT S. Military Academy, and successfully taught in that Institution. It is compiled from several treatises on the subject, both French and English, but principally from “Porter’s Self-Defence on Foot,” and is arranged to accord with the principles of the Cavalry Sword Exercise as taught by our Tactics. Throughout, conformity with the established exercises of our Army has been aimed at.

As the practice of Part Ill, with real weapons, would be dangerous, wooden swords of hickory, or other tough wood, resembling in length and shape the ordinary broadsword er salue, and with leather guards, should be used ; or, simply, sticks of about ~ to 1 inch in diameter, and 3~ or 4 feet Ion, The wooden sword is preferable, as the proper direction of the cd~c can be better studied.

The Elementary Parts, I and LI, should always be practised with a real sword, to accustom the arm and hand to its weight, that case and dexterity in handling it may be acquired, and to attain accuracy in directing the edge.

A cap, hat, or ordinary fencing mask, should be worn to protect the head from an accidental stroke care, however, on the part of the instructor, will prevent any serious injury.

The exercise, from the nature of the weapon, being imperfect, cool­ness, watchfulness, and agility are necessary and where nature by organization, or accident, has interposed a bar to personal activity, the defence, and a quick return cut or thrust, must be particularly studied.

My thanks are due to Lieut. Colonel Swords, of the Quartermas­ter’s Department, late of the 1st Regiment of Dragoons, for his kind­ness in revising the work.

 

 

 

 

 

Explanation of terms not defined in the text.

 

INSIDE, INWARD—the left or to the left.

 

OUTSIDE, OUTWARD—the right or to the right..

 

Q,UARTE, applied to the hand—nails up.

 

TIERCE, applied to the hand—nails down.

 

FEEBLE, applied to the blade—thehalf from point to middle.

 

FORT, applied to the blade—thehalf from the middle to the hilt.

 

SHOULDER, applied to the blade—thejoint of the blade with the hilt.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.

_____________________________

 

PART I.

 

EXERCISE WITHOUT SWORDS.

 

FALL IN.

 

1.   The squads will be formed in one rank, facing the instructor, intervals of two paces between the files.

 

ATTENTION.

 

2.   The position of the soldier, as described in the In­fantry Tactics, (Lesson 1st, Vol. 1,)* will be promptly assumed.

 

1ST POSITION.

 

3.   Half face to the left, turning on the left heel, at the same time bring the heel of the right foot against that of the left; feet precisely at right angles to each other.

 

2D POSITION—ON GUARD. Plates 4 and 5.

 

4.   Standing in 1st position, (3;) advance the right foot 18 or 20 inches, in a line directly at right angles to the left, plant it firmly on the ground; both knees slightly bent, the weight of the body thrown principally on the left leg, that the right may be either retired from a cut, or thrown rapidly forward on a longe; the left shoulder thrown back, and the body kept as much in a line as possible, in order to expose no more of it than is necessary to an antagonist; the left hand may be fixed firm with the inside of it on the left hip bone, or the arm may be thrown across the body in the small of the back, as may be found most con­venient.

Heels on the same line and as close as the conformation of the man may permit; the feet forming with each other something less than a right angle, the toes equally turned out; knees straight without stiff­ness; body erect on the hips; shoulders square and, falling equally; arms hanging naturally; ~ * * * * * * * the face well to, the front, chin a little drawn in, but without constraint.—Page 24, Vol. 1, Scott’s Tactics.

 

 

6                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise without Swords.

 

3D POSITION—THE LONGE. Fig. 1, Plate 6.

 

5.   Advance the right foot close along the ground, rais­ing the toe slightly; left foot flat upon the ground, ankle joint supple and well bent, leg extended, knee straight; body erect, head thrown back, breast projected; right knee vertically over the instep, right heel opposite to and in a line perpendicular to the left.

6.   Although an extensive longe is doubtless advan­tageous to those who can make it easily, yet it will not be found in an assault so necessary as a quick recover. For which reason it will be injudicious to make the pupil step out further than his natural strength and activity will ad­mit. Care must be taken to place the right foot flat upon the ground, and not to make so violent an extension as to pitch upon the heel. The longe is taken from either the 2d or 1st Positions, (4) or (3.)

7.   The recover from the longe is either to the 2d (4) or 1st (3) Positions. The instructor will practise first the re­cover to the 2d Position, or Guard, as follows:

 

ON GUARD.

 

8.   Raise the toe of the right foot, and by a muscular exertion of the right heel and left leg spring back quickly to the 2d Position, (4.)

9.   To recover from the longe to the 1st Position, the instructor will command:

1ST POSITION.

 

10.Raise the toe of the right foot, and by a muscular exertion of the right heel and left leg spring back quickly to the 1st Position, (3.)

11.The pupils having been sufficiently exercised in the preceding lesson, to take the longe lightly and readily from either the 1st or 2d Positions, and to recover to either of them, nimbly, without shock, and without losing the bal­ance, the instruction with swords will be commenced.

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                         7

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

PART II.

 

EXERCISE WITH SWORDS.

 

12.To prevent accidents, by the sword escaping from the hand, it will be necessary to have a leather sword knot, which should be soft and pliable, and not so tight as to confine the motion of the wrist.

13.Before drawing the sword, pass the hand through the loop, and give it a couple of tarns inward, which will render it sufficiently secure.

14.The broadsword and sabre must be held with the fingers clenched round the gripe, sufficiently fast to pre­vent the blade wavering, the thumb being either placed on the back or toward the left. At the instant of parrying or attacking, it will be requisite to grasp it with strength, but that exertion of the muscles is so natural as not to need much insisting upon. The chief object is to hold the gripe securely with the fore-finger and thumb, whatever may be the position of the, blade, relaxing or contracting the other fingers according to ifs direction. Placing the thumb on the back of the gripe is the mode always adopted in using either the small sword or espadon; but the hilts of broad-swords and sabres are frequently made too short and con­fined to permit it. In practising with light sticks, and in using the espadon or cut and thrust, the placing the thumb in that position will be found to give celerity and sharpness to the cut; but the weight or curvature of either the broadsword or sabre will, in some instances, prove too great to be thus acted upon, and will frequently require that the gripe be completely encircled with the fore-finger and thumb.

 

ATTENTION—DRAW SWORDS.

 

15.At the command DRAW, pass the right wrist through the loop as at 13, seize the gripe, and draw the blade six inches out of the scabbard, pressing the scabbard against the thigh with the left hand, which seizes it just below the ring or hook by which it is supported.

 

 

 

 

8                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

16.At the command SWORDS, draw the sword quickly, raising the arm to its full extent, pause slightly, and then carry the blade to the right shoulder, the back of it against the shoulder, the right hand supported against the right hip, the little finger on the outside of the gripe.

1ST POSITION.

 

17.(See 3 and 16.) Left arm hanging naturally by the side.

 

ENGAGE OR ON GUARD—-IN TIERCE. Plate 4.

 

18.(See 4 and 14.) Right hand at the height of and opposite to the right shoulder, arm nearly straight but not stiff, hand in tierce; blade crossed before the body, edge to the right, and point opposite to and at the height of the left eye.

 

ENGAGE OR ON GUARD—IN QUARTE. Plate 5.

 

19.(See 4 and 14.) Right hand at the height of and opposite to the left shoulder, arm nearly straight, but not stiff, hand in quarte; blade crossed before the body, edge to the left, and point opposite to and at the height of the right eye.

20.From these two guards are formed all the cuts, points, and parries. The pupils should be exercised in changing from one to the other and back again, until they are able to execute them with quickness and precision. The action of the wrist should always precede that of the shoulder, but be so immediately followed by it as not to present an opening to an adversary by holding a crooked wrist; an error to which beginners are very liable, espe­cially on the guard of quarte.

21.When the instructor wishes to rest his squad, he will command:

 

1ST POSITION—CARRY SWORDS. REST.

 

22.Assume the position of 3, carrying the blade to the shoulder as at 16. At the command REST, the pupils will

                        

 

 

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           9

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

not be required to preserve the steadiness of their positions.

23.To resume the exercises the instructor will com­mand:

 

ATTENTION—1ST POSITION.

 

24.(See 2 and 3, and 16.)

 

MOULINETS.

 

25.The object of the Moulinet is to supple the joints of the arm and wrist, and to give dexterity in handling and whirling the blade.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE—LEFT MOULINET.

 

26~ (See 18.) At the command Left Moulinet, keep the arm steadily in its position, and lowering the blade pass it close along the left side, the back leading, describing with the point a circle from rear to front, and return to the position of the guard.

 

ON GUARD IN QUARTE—RIGHT MOULINET.

 

27.(See 19.) At the command Right Moulinet, keep the arm steadily in its position, and lowering the blade pass it close along the right side, the back leading, describ­ing with the point a circle from rear to front, and return to the position of the guard.

28.To execute the Moulinets without stopping, the in­structor, if he wishes to commence with the left, will command:

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE—LEFT AND RIGHT MOULINETS.

 

29.The pupils will execute what is laid down in 26 and

27 alternately, continuing the movement until the instruc­tor shall arrest it by the command:

 

ON GUARD.

 

80.Assume quickly and remain steadily on the guard of Tierce.

 

 

 

 

 

 

10                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

31.if the instructor wishes to commence with the right, he will command:

ON GUARD IN QUARTE—RIGHT AND LEFT MOULINETS.

 

32.The pupils will execute what is laid down in 27 and 26 alternately, continuing the movement until the in­structor shall arrest it by the command:

ON GUARD.

 

33.Assume quickly and remain steadily on the guard of Quarte.

 

TO ADVANCE.

 

34.The ADVANCE is used to gain ground upon an ad­versary when at too great a distance to reach him by a longe; or by pressing forwards to compel him to retreat into worse ground or a more disadvantageous situation.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE (or Quarte)—ADVANCE.

 

35.Step forward with the right foot from .10 to 14 inches, at the same time transferring the weight of the body from the left leg to the right, that the left foot glid­ing along the ground may be the more readily brought up an equal distance, and keeping the body erect.

TO RETREAT.

36.The RETREAT is used to gain a more advantageous situation that may be behiiid you; or to avoid any incon­venience that may be sustained from an adversary of su­perior strength or impetuous temper pressing too closely.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE (or Quarte) RETREAT.

37.Throw the weight of the body, keeping it erect, upon the right leg; lift the left foot from the ground to avoid any unseen obstacle in the rear, and carry it backward 10 or 14 inches, planting it firmly; draw back the right foot an equal distance.

 

 

 

 

 

                             SWORD EXERCISES.                                                       11

 

Exercise with Swords.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE—LEFT AND RIGHT MOUUNETS AD­-

VANCING—ADVANCE

 

38.At the command ADVANCE, execute what is laid down in 29 and 35, continuing the movement until theinstructor shall arrest it by the command:

HALT.

39.Cease advancing, and assume quickly and steadily the guard of tierce.

ON GUARD IN QUARTE—RIGHT AND LEFT MOULINETS AD­VANCING—ADVANCE.

 

40.At the command ADVANCES execute what is laid down in 32 and 35, continuing the movement until it is arrested by the command HALT. See 39, assuming the guard of quarte.

 

0N GUARD IN TIERCE—LEFT AND RIGHT MOULINETS RE-

TREATING—RETREAT.

 

41.At the command RETREAT, execute what is laid down in 29 and 37, continuing the movement until arrested by the command HALT. See 39.

 

ON GUARD IN QUARTE—RIGHT AND LEFT MOULINETS RE­TREATING—RETREAT.

 

42.At the command RETREAT, execute what is laid down in 32 and 37, continuing the movement until arrested by the command HALT. See latter part of 40.

TRAVERSING.

 

43.There are two modes of Traversing, viz., forward and backward, which are executed on either of the engage­ments, of Quarte or Tierce, depending upon the nature of the ground and other circumstances of the engagement. This movement will be found particularly useful, if; in re­tiring, the retreat should be obstructed by a ditch or other

 

 

 

 

12                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

impediment; also, if opportunity offers, by traversing rea­dily, an antagonist may be brought in such a position as to face the sun, at which instant a vigorous at tack may in­crease his embarrassment and cause his defeat.

 

FORE TRAVERSE. Plate I.

 

44.This is performed in a large circle, the centre of which is the middle of the line of defence, a straight line supposed to be drawn through the centres of the bodies of two persons engaged: such as the line A A’ 0 E’ E, the left foot of each being respectively at A and E, and the right feet at A’ and E’. Step off with the left foot from E to F, and bring up (immediately) the right foot from E’ to F’. F F’ 0 B’ B, will be the new line of de­fence.

 

REAR TRAVERSE. Plate 1.

 

45.This is the counterpart of the FORE TRAVERSE. A A’ 0 E’ E, being the line of defence, step off with the right foot from E’ to D’, and bring up the left foot im­mediately from E to D,—D IY 0 H’ H, will be the new line of defence.

 

THE CUTS. Plate 2.

 

46.The edge of the blade can be directed in seven dif­ferent ways, two diagonally downwards,’ two diagonally upwards, two horizontal, and one vertically downwards. They are designated as CUTS, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven. They should all be made principally by the motion of the wrist, preserving the arm as much as possi­ble in its proper direction. Every unnecessary width of motion (which would be a sure consequence of bending the arm) must he avoided. The arm should never be lifted towards the side at which a cut is aimed, (as by that motion the body would he uncovered and exposed to the same cut,) but carried to the opposite side, covering the person by crossing the blade before it. Experience will soon direct to how great a degree it is requisite thus to

 

 

 

 SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        13

 

Exercise with Swords.

 

cross the blade; by crossing it too much, one’s own cut may not take effect by encountering the adverse blade; on the other hand, by not crossing sufficiently, the per­son is exposed by every cut attempted.

47.The cuts are made from either the 1st or 2d Posi­tions. In recovering after making a cut, be careful to draw back the blade with the edge opposed to the adverse blade. For simplicity, the cuts are analyzed in the 2d Position, but the principles are the same from any other. Cuts one and two, are made diagonally downwards, one from right to left; two from left to right. Cuts three and four diagonally upwards; three from right to left ; four from left to right. Cuts five and six are horizontal; five from right to left; six from left to right. Cut seven is made vertically downwards.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE.

 

48.(See 18.)

 

CUT—ONE. 2 Motions.

 

49.(1st motion.) From the guard of tierce, carry the right hand opposite to the left nipple and at its height, turning it at the same time to quarte, blade crossed before the body, edge to the left, point to the right and raised about eighteen inches above and about six inches to the right of the right shoulder. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

60.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the edge downward in the direction from 1 to 4, (Plate 2,) until the blade is horizontal, edge leading and arm steady. Recover to guard of quarte, (19.)

 

CUT—TWO. 2 Motion..

 

61.(1st motion.) From the guard of quarte, carry the right hand opposite to and at the height of the right nip­ple, turning it at the same time to tierce; blade crossed

 

 

 

14                                                         SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

before the body, edge to the right, point to the left and raised about eighteen inches above and about six inches to the left of the left shoulder. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

52.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the edge downward in the direction from 2 to 3, (P/ale 2,) until the blade is horizontal, edge leading and arm steady. Recover to guard of tierce, (18.)

 

CUT—THREE. 2 Motions.

 

53.(1st motion.) From the guard of tierce, by a turn of the wrist to quarte, drop the point about eighteen inches outward to the right, bringing it about six inches to the right of the right knee, at the same time carry the hand opposite to and at the height of the left shoulder, crossing the blade before the body, edge to the left. Simulta­neously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

54.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conductlng the point upward in the direction from 3 to 2, (Plate 2,) until the blade is horizontal, edge leading and arm steady. Recover toguard of quarte.

 

CUT——FOUR. 2 Motions.

 

55.(1st motion.) From the guard of quarte, by a turn of the wrist to tierce, drop the point (about 18 inches) in­ward to the left, bringing it about 6 inches to the left of the left knee ; at the same time carry the hand opposite to and at the height of the right shoulder, crossing the blade before the body, edge to the right. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon theright leg.

56.(2d motion) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the point upward in the direction from 4 to 1,  (Plate 2,) until the blade is horizontal, edge leading and arm steady. Recover to guard of tierce.

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                      15

              

Exercise with Swords.

 

CUT—FIVE. 2 Motions

 

57. (1st motion.) From the guard of tierce, turning the hand to quarte, drop the point until the blade is hori­zontal, bringing it about six inches to the right of the right shoulder; at the same time carry the hand to the. left as at 19, blade crossed before the body, edge to the left. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

58.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the point horizontally in the direction from 5 to 6, (Plate 2,) until it is opposite to the hand, edge lead­ing, arm steady. Recover to guard of quarte.

CUT—SIX. 2 Motions.

 

59 (1st motion.) From the guard of quarte, by a turn of the wrist to tierce, drop the point until the blade is hori­zontal, bringing it about six inches to the left of the left shoulder; at the same time carry the hand to the right as at 18, blade crossed before the body, edge to the right. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee strongly, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

60.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the point horizontally in the direction from 6 to 5, (Plate 2,) until it arrives opposite to the hand, edge leading, arm steady. Recover to guard of tierce.

CUT—SEVEN. 2 Motions.

 

61.(1st motion.) From the guard of tierce, raise the point, edge to the front, until the blade is vertical; at the same time carry the hand opposite to the centre of the body and at the height of the nipples.

62.(2d motion.) Step out as at 5, and deliver the cut, conducting the point vertically downward in the direction 7, (Plate 2,) until it arrives opposite to the hand, edge leading, arm steady. Recover to guard of tierce.

63.As soon as the pupils can execute the preceding cuts, correctly and readily, in two motions, the instructor will exercise them in one motion, by the commands:

 

 

                   

16                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

              

 

CUT—ONE—TWO—THREE—FOUR—FIVE—SIX—SEVEN.

 

64.Execute what is laid down for each cut respectively in the order named, but embracing the same moment of time.

65.The instructor will now proceed to combine the first six cuts, that is, to execute them, and to repeat their ex­ecution without pausing; observing, particularly, that the edge always leads, and that the wrist is not strained, nor the positions of the arm and person deranged. This will be found extremely useful in an attack, especially if an antagonist breaks ground, and continues to retire, as is frequently the case at the onset; it may also prove ad­vantageous in an engagement at night; since, if properly performed, the blade will necessarily cross the body in such a manner as to afford considerable security from the stroke of an adversary, and by the reiterated attack will compel him to remain almost entirely on the defensive, or subject him to a certainty of being cut on the sword arm, particularly if he does not know the direction of those cuts which so rapidly succeed the one he may have at first es­caped or parried.

66.The difference between the execution of these six cuts singly, as before described, and when combined, con­sists in not resorting to any particular guard after each cut, but in continuing the attack from cut 1, until cuts 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, have all been made; in doing which, the point proceeds from the conclusion of one cut to the commence­ment of the next, according to the dotted lines. (See Plate 3.)

67.Be careful not to lift the arm in commencing the first cut, as that would leave the body unprotected; and to confine the sweep of the point within the circumference of a circle of four feet diameter.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE—SIX CUTS COMBINED. CUT OD~E.

Plate 3.

 

68.From the guard of tierce, and remaining in the po­sition of guard, at the command, CUT ONE, execute what

 

 

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        17

 

Exercise with Swords.

 

is laid down at 65, 66, and 67, and continue the move­ment until arrested by the command:

ON GUARD.

69.Assume the guard of tierce, and remain steady.

70.The six cuts combined will be executed, both ad­vancing and retreating, and the movement arrested, ac­cording to the principles laid down in 38, 39, 41, 68, and

69.The commands will be:

 

ON GUARD in Tierce—six cuts combined advancing (or retreating)—

ADVANCE—(or Retreat.) HALT.

 

PARRIES.

71.Although when standing on guard the right foot is advanced, yet when parrying a cut, it is deemed most eli­gible to slip back that foot to the left. Fig. 2, Plate 6.

 

ON GUARD IN QUARTE. IN TIERCE—PARRy. Plate 7.

72.Turn the hand well to tierce, carrying it about six or eight inches to the right of the line of defence, so as to protect the outside; blade crossed before the body, point opposite to and at the height of the left eye, at the same time slip back quickly the right foot. (71.)

78.This parry secures against cuts 2and 6 at the head, throat, breast, and wrist.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE. IN QUARTE—PARRY. Plate 6.

74.Turn the hand well to quarte, and carry it and the blade as at 19, at the same time slipping back the right foot.

(71.)

75.This parry secures against cuts 1 and 5 at the head, throat, breast, and wrist.

 

ON GUARD IN QUARTE. IN SECONDE--PARRY. Plate 8.

76.Turn the hand to tierce, carrying it about six or eight inches to the right of the line of defence, and at the

2

 

 

 

18                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Exercise with Swords.

 

height of the shoulder; blade crossed before the body, point opposite to and at height of left knee, at the same time slip back the right foot. (71.)

77.This parry secures from cuts 4 and 6 at the ribs, leg, and wrist.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE. IN DEMI-CIRCLE—PARRY. Plate 9.

 

78.Turn the hand well to quarte, carrying it opposite to and at the height of the left shoulder; blade crossed before the body, point at the height of and opposite to right knee, at the same time slip back the right foot. (71.)

79.This parry secures from cuts 3 and 5 at the ribs, leg, and wrist.

 

ON GUARD IN TIERCE. FOR THE HEAD—PARRY. Plate 10.

 

80.Raise the hand six inches above and six inches in front of the head, carrying it six or eight inches to the right of the line of defence; blade crossed above the head, point 6 or 8 inches higher than gripe.

81.This parry secures against cut 7 at the head.

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       19

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

PART III

 

CUTS AND PARRIES UNITED.

 

82.As soon as the cuts and parries can be executed with exactness and readiness, the instructor will proceed to unite them as follows:

83.The squad being formed as at 1, and at ATTENTION, (2) and (16,) the instructor will command:

 

FROM THE RIGHT—BY TWOS—CALL OFF.

 

84.Commencing with the right file, the pupils will call off one, two, one, two, to the left.

 

NUMBERS ONE—FOUR PACES TO THE FRONT, MARCH.

ABOUT FACE. COVER.

 

85.At the command MARCH, the numbers 1 will step off four paces and halt, and at the command ABOUT FACED they will face about as described in Infantry Tactics, (111,) &c., vol. 1;* and at the command Cover, they will side step to the right until they come directly opposite to and facing the numbers 2, thus forming couples.

86.To commence practice, the instructor will command successively: FIRST POSITION, see 24; then

 

PROVE DISTANCE.

 

87.At this command, the parties will extend towards each other their right arms and blades, horizontally, bring­ing the blades together, the point of each against the guard of the other, and move back until the arms are held

 

* At the word about, turn on the left heel, bring the left toe to the front, carry the right foot to the rear, the hollow opposite to and full three inches from the left heel, the feet square to each other. At the word face, turn on the two heels, raise the toes a little, extend the hams, face to the rear, bringing at the same time the right heel by the side of the left.

 

 

 

22                                                            SWORD EXERCISE.

                

Cuts and Parries united.

 

ed with the danger of a counter stroke; it is therefore recommended, when a double feint is intended, to commence it by disengaging from quarte.

99.  The purpose of feints being only to induce an an­tagonist to guard a part which it is not designed to strike, the feints, whether simple or double, may be directed at any part of the person. Caution is necessary in making feints, not to uncover one’s self so much as to receive a time cut or thrust, (152.) The feint should also be directed at a part from which the weapon can be easily recovered to deliver the cut intended.

100.                     To execute feints, the command will be:

 

NUMBER — FEINT AT THE — CUT AT THE — NUMBER —

PARRY. CUT.

 

BEARING.

 

101.          Bearing is forcing an adversary’s blade from the line of defence for the purpose of procuring an opening, and is executed thus: Longe briskly forward, pressing the fort against that of the adverse blade, and thence slipping it to its feeble. If it succeed, the adversary’s head, neck, and breast are exposed to a cut, which, however, must be executed with activity. Bearing is generally attempted from the guard of tierce, rarely from that of quarte, as an opponent may easily drop his point, and springing back, cut 3 at the arm. On the guard of fierce, bearing may be avoided by resorting to the hanging guard (111.) Bearing on the hanging guard (111,) is rarely used, as one’s own head and inside are exposed; besides, an opponent, by slipping from the bearing, will in all probability effect a cut.

102.          To execute bearing, the command will be:

 

NUMBER — CUT—BEARING. BEAR.

 

BATTERING.

 

103.          Battering is striking on an antagonist’s sword to obtain an opening, and requires the same caution as bear­-

 

 

 

 

          SWORD EXERCISE.                                                       23

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

ing, lest he slip his blade from the stroke and make a cut on the contrary side. It can seldom be attended with suc­cess against any but the tierce and hanging (111,) guards; but, on other guards, by sometimes inducing an adversary to resist, a disengagement and cut on the opposite side may be effected. Battering is performed by a spring of the wrist and sudden extension of the arm.

104. To execute battering, the command will be:

 

NUMBER — CUT—BATTERING. BATTER.

 

SLIPPING.

 

105. Slipping is withdrawing that part of the person at which an antagonist directs his cut, in order that his weapon, being deprived of the expected resistance, may sway his arm from the defensive, and thereby afford an opening for a cut. It is an excellent deception against an impetuous antagonist, especially if he be ignorant of the exercise. Some are so partial to the manouvre of slip­ping, that by practice they become enabled to slip a cut even when directed at their bodies. But this, unless ex­ceedingly well executed, becomes hazardous on account of its disordering their position, especially if an adversary should longe farther than expected, and cut low; added to which, by throwing the body from the line of defence, an antagonist may be induced to thrust upon that unguarded position, and will thereby obtain a decided advantage.

10.6. To slip an inside cut at the arm: spring back, car­rying the right foot backward and sideways eight or ten inches to the rear of the left, resting upon its toe, to pre­serve the equilibrium, and to be ready for a counter-stroke or thrust; withdraw the right hand to the right breast, (at its height, and six or eight inches to its right, that the arm may not be contracted and stiff,) blade vertical, point up, and edge to the front. The instant the adverse blade passes, return a cut at the sword arm, longeing out if ne­cessary, or thrust at the arm or body.

107. To slip an outside cut at the arm: spring back, car-

 

 

24                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

rying the right foot backward and sideways eight or ten inches to the rear of the left, resting upon its toe, to pre­serve the equilibrium, and to be ready for a counter-stroke or thrust; withdraw the right hand to the left breast, sus­taining it against it, blade vertical, point up, edge to the left. The instant the adverse blade passes, return cut at the sword arm, head, or body, or thrust, longeing out if necessary.

108. To slip a cut at the right leg is very common, and undoubtedly its best defence; for a cut at the leg can sel­dom be made without considerable danger to the person who attempts it, as it must always be attended with an in­clination of the body; and the head being thus brought forward becomes exposed, even when the leg or thigh at which the cut is aimed is removed from its reach. Spring­ing up to the first position, and forming seconde or demi­circle, would parry the stroke; but the advantage offered by the exposure of the head could not be so readily seized. On an intimation of a cut at the leg, quickly withdraw the right foot ten or twelve inches to the rear of the left, rest­ing upon its toe, and simultaneously, if on the guard of tierce, cut 4 at the sword arm, or 1 at the head or arm; if on the guard of quarte, cut 4 at the sword arm, or 2 at the head or arm cut 7 at either head or arm can be de­livered from either engagement.

109. On the hanging guard (111,) slipping may be prac­tised with great safety by slipping the foot quite out of and at right angles with the line of defence, the whole body being thus brought well beyond it toward the right; and the guard remaining still opposed to an antagonist to pro­tect from his cut in case he should longe farther than was expected.

110. To slip a cut, the command will be:

 

NUMBER — CUT—. AT — NUMBER — SLIP THE CUT. CUT.

 

THE HANGING GUARD.

 

111. This is particularly the guard of the espadon or cut and thrust, and stick or cudgel, but is also applicable

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                         25

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

to the broadsword and sabre. It possesses several advan­tages, and is at the same time liable to some objections. Among its advantages, the most important is the protec­tion it affords by covering so large a portion of the body, as the whole of the blade is appropriated to that purpose, especially in the direction in which the first and most na­tural cuts are made, while from the oblique position of the weapon a blow, however forcible, slides down it without endangering the hand. For these reasons it seems well calculated to parry any sudden attack in the dark, espe­cially if made against one armed only with a stick. The hanging guard is also well adapted to prevent an antagonist from thrusting at the body beneath the wrist, and to ob­viate those feints which might otherwise be made by changing, if on the guards of either tierce or quarte. Another advantage, and a material one, is, that it requires a very trifling motion of the wrist to meet any cut what­ever that may be made. The constrained position of the hand, and weight of the weapon, will be found tiresome at first, but practice will soon overcome this defect and enable one to deliver a cut from this guard with rapidity and force.

112. The hanging guard may be taken from either the guards of tierce or quarte, and admits of two positions, the variations of which will be found a great relief, as well as an assistance in an assault in combining cuts and thrusts. In the first position, (Plate 11,) the right arm is nearly ex­tended, but free from all constraint, hand in tierce, on a level with the shoulder, blade slightly inclined, point down­wards, and directed at an antagonist’s body about two inches lower than his arm-pit, edge up slightly to the right; look over the arm and blade. In the second posi­tion, (Plate 12,) the point is directed at an antagonist’s body a little above his hip, and the hand is raised as high as the forehead, so that an adversary can be seen clearly under the hand and blade, which are as before, the arm being necessarily a little more bent, but free from con­straint.

113. From the hanging guard, the parries are made (to

 

 

 

 

 

26                                                         SWORD EXERCISE.

                         

Cuts and Parries united.

 

protect any part of the person) by simply raising or low­ering the hand, and dropping the point, as may be neces­sary, moving the arm with perfect freedom to the right or left, up or down, so as to oppose the edge of the blade firmly and with celerity to any cut that may be made, at the same time drawing back the foot as at 71, or as at 106 107, 109. Much practice will be necessary to enable one to hold the sword in this position without constraint or wavering, and to attain the firmness requisite for parrying, and a sufficient degree of celerity in cutting and thrusting.

114. In an assault great advantages can be obtained by combining the hanging guard, and its parries, with the guards and parries of tierce and quarte.

115. To practice the parries from the hanging guard, the instructor will cause one of the numbers to assume it, and remain on the defensive, while the other delivers the seven cuts, in order, recovering to guard after each. The command will be.

 

NUMBER — HANGING GUARD. NUMBER — ATTACK.

 

116. From the hanging guard, the cuts are made on the same principles as at 46 and 47.

 

APPLICATION OF THE POINT.

 

117. The weight of the broadsword will not permit the same number of thrusts as are made with the small sword. All that can be safely introduced among the cuts of the former are four, viz., seconde, tierce, quarte, and demi­-circle or low quarte: these should be made with the hand sufficiently high to cover from any cut that an adversary may be likely to make, and to retard a disengagement over the blade at the instant of longeing. In making thrusts, regard must be paid also to what is termed the op­position, that is, opposing the adverse blade so as to turn its point from the line of defence, that the body may be secured from a counter-stroke or thrust. The opposition is inward or outward, as it is to the left or right. The

                                                    

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                            27

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

thrusts, like the cuts, are made from either the 1st or 2d Position.

 

IN SECONDE—LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

118. (1st motion.) This thrust is delivered under the sword arm. Raise the right hand in tierce to the height of the mouth, point at the height of the ribs, edge up and to the right; opposition outward. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee, throwing the body forward on the right leg.

119. (2d motion.) Step out, delivering the thrust, and raising the hand slightly—see 117. Recover to guard.

120. This thrust is parried by seconde. See 76.

 

IN TIERCE—LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

121. (1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the sword arm. Raise the right hand in tierce to the height of the forehead, point at the height of the breast, edge up and to the right; opposition outward. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee, throwing the body forward on the right leg.

122. (2d motion.) Step out, delivering the thrust, and raising the hand slightly—see 117. Recover to guard.

123. This thrust is parried by tierce. See 72.

 

IN QUARTE—LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

124. (1st motion.) This thrust is delivered over the sword arm. Raise the right hand in quarte to the height of the forehead, point at the height of the breast, edge up and to the left; opposition inward. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee, throwing the body forward on the right leg.

125. (2d motion) Step out, delivering the thrust, and raising the hand slightly—see 117. Recover to guard.

126. This thrust is parried by quarte. See 74.

 

IN DEMI-CIRCLE— LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

127. (1st motion.) This thrust is delivered under the sword arm. Raise the right hand in quarte to the height

   

28                                   SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

of the mouth, point at the height of the ribs, edge up and to the left; opposition inward. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee, throwing the body forward on the right leg.

128. (2d motion.) Step out, delivering the thrust, and raising the hand slightly—see 117. Recover to guard.

129. This thrust is parried by demi-circle. See 78.

130. These four thrusts are, as has been before stated, the only safe ones with a broadsword or sabre, as the edge of the weapon is, in them, opposed to the adverse blade, thus affording security from a counter-stroke or thrust. Sometimes, however, an adversary’s guard may be de­ceived by the curve of the sabre, which facilitates an ap­proach to an adversary’s body and which enables us to use occasionally a fifth thrust, called quarte over the arm. It must be used with caution, and when used, delivered with celerity, as the back of the blade being opposed to the adverse weapon, there is great hazard of receiving a cut on the arm at the moment of longeing, while the thrust may be avoided by one’s antagonist springing back out of reach of the point.

 

IN QUARTE OVER THE ARM—LONGE OUT. (2 Motions.)

 

131. (1st motion.) The thrust is delivered over the sword arm. Raise the right hand in quarte to the height of the forehead, point at the height of the breast, edge up and to the left; opposition outward. Simultaneously stiffen the left knee, throwing the body forward upon the right leg.

132. (2d motion.) Step out, delivering the thrust. Re­cover to guard.

133. This thrust is parried by tierce—see 72; but is better avoided by springing back—see 130.

 

COUNTERS.

 

134. By changing rapidly from one engagement to another, an adversary’s play may be spoilt, and at the same time one’s own combinations furthered; to frustrate this,

 

 

 

      SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           29

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

resort is had to a movement called a COUNTERS from its being contrary or opposed to a change. It consists in fol­lowing the adverse blade instead of opposing it, by passing under or over it according to the engagement, describing with the point a complete circle, bringing one’s adversary back to the original guard or engagement from which a change was attempted.

135. To execute a counter, being engaged in either tierce or quarte, the instructor will command:

 

NUMBER — CHANGE QUARTE (or TIERCE.) NUMBER —

COUNTER QUARTE (OR TIERCE.) CHANGE.

 

136. At the command change, the number indicated will change the engagement (93, 94, 95;) on his movement, the number to counter will execute rapidly 134:

 

ROUND PARRIES.

 

137. In addition to the use of the counters described at 134, they are of further utility applied to the parries, form­ing what are termed round parries. These are compound movements, consisting of the simple parries united with and preceded by a counter. Counters and round parries cannot be well performed with a very heavy sword; but with a light sword, and the espadon or cut and thrust, they are very useful.

138. To execute the round parries, the instructor will command:

 

ENGAGE IN —. NUMBER DISENGAGE — NUMBER ROUND

PARRY OF — LONGE OUT.

 

139. At the command longe out, the number to disen-gage will deliver the thrust ordered; the number to parry will throw off the thrust with the parry called, preceding it by a rapid counter. (137.)

140. The motion of the wrist, and the circle described by the point, must not be greater than to preserve or re­gain the feel of the adverse blade. In both counters and

 

30                                                         SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

round parries the hand and arm remain in the position of the engagement.

CIRCLING.

 

141. This is describing a circle of about three feet diameter with the point, keeping the wrist at the height of the shoulder on either the guards of tierce or quarte, the weight of the body resting upon the left leg, and the head held well back. Circling is serviceable when engaged in the dark in regaining the feel of an adversary’s blade, and is also useful against one who endeavors to embarrass by a multiplicity of feints.

142. To execute it, the instructor will command:

 

ENAGE IN QUARTE (OR TIERCE.) CIRCLE.

 

143. At the command circle, execute 141.

 

CUTS DEVIATING FROM THE GENERAL PRINCIPLE OF,

“CUTTING TOWARDS AN ANTAGONIST’S BLADE.”

 

CUT 5—UNDER THE SWORD.

 

144. Engage in quarte. Number — cross your blade (the fort) over the feeble of your adversary’s, wrench his sword to the outside under your blade, and turning the wrist, cut 5. Recover to guard of tierce. Number —parry by raising the point and~ dropping the right hand low in the guard of quarte, upon feeling your point borne out of the line of defence.

145. If the parry is successful, the attacking party must recover to guard of quarte. This cut may also be avoided by withdrawing the blade and disengaging under the wrist, in which case the attacking party must spring back on a hanging guard, and immediately seek to regain the adverse blade.

 

CUT 6—UNDER THE SWORD.

 

146. Engage in tierce. Number — cross your blade over the feeble of your adversary’s blade, as if to make

                       

 

           SWORD EXERCISE.                                                        31

 

Cuts and Parries united.

 

cut 3, wrench his blade to the left, and then quitting it turn the wrist and cut 6 under the sword. Recover to guard of quarte, or to a hanging guard. Number — parry by raising the point and dropping the right hand low in the guard of tierce, upon feeling your point borne out of the line of defence.

147. If the parry is successful, the attacking party must recover to the guard of tierce. Unless this cut be well executed it is somewhat dangerous, especially if one’s ad­versary, suspecting the design, withdraws his blade, or disengages; should he do this, the attacking party must spring back on the guard of demi-circie, and immediately seek to regain the adverse blade.

148. The two preceding cuts are especially useful against an antagonist who presents his blade and arm in a line nearly horizontal; they can also be used after either the parry of seconde or demi-circle.

 

CUT 5—OVER AND WITHIN THE SWORD.

 

149. This cut is made when an antagonist carries his right hand too low on the guard of tierce. A similar cut may sometimes be effected on the guard of quarte, but as that is the strongest guard which can be taken, it will not often succeed. Engage in tierce. Number— bear your adversary’s blade a little out of the line of defence, turn the back of your blade to the back of his, and cut 5 at the neck above his sword, springing back as you cut. Num­ber parry by raising the hand quickly to a hanging guard.

150. If the parry is successful, the attacking party will find his feeble opposed to his antagonist’s fort, who, unless he withdraw his blade quickly, may whirl his own outward, and deliver cut 5 at the face, or the thrust of quarte over the arm; in either case the hanging guard should be resorted to when the thrust of seconde may be returned as he recovers.

 

CUT AT THE ADVANCED LEG OR THIGH.

 

151. A cut at the leg is always hazardous, (see 108) yet from its prominence it is exposed to attacks which are

 

 

 

32                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Cuts and Parties united.

 

readily made, and which, if conducted with caution and celerity, are frequently successful. It should never be at­tempted without previously diverting the adverse blade by a feint at the upper part of the body. As a counter-stroke, it is safer than as a first attack, particularly after the parry of quarte.

 

TIMING.

 

152. Timing is the exact and critical throwing in a cut or thrust upon any opening that may occur as an antagonist changes his position. For instance, if he change from quarte to tierce, or from tierce to quarte, in a negligent manner, his wrist becomes exposed, and frequently part of his sword arm above the elbow. The same opportunity is offered in his feints if he should suffer his sword to sway his arm, instead of making them lightly from the wrist, or should he not recover quickly from a cut which has been parried. To practice time cuts, the command will be:

 

ON GUARD IN QUARTE (OR TIERCE.) NUMBER — CHANGE TIERCE (OR QUARTE.) NUMBER — TIME CUT. CHANGE.

 

153. At the command change, the movement will be executed. See 93, &c.

DISARMING.

 

154. There are various methods of disarming, but none safe or likely to succeed against a good swordsman; with an indifferent one the following, the best and safest, may be attempted. In the execution, however, there must be promptness, decision, and activity.

155.Engage in tierce (or quarte.) Number — turn the hand a little more in tierce (or quarte) than usual on guard, swiftly reverse the hand, wrenching the adverse blade diagonally downward. This may disarm, and if not, may obtain an opening for a cut.

156. Engage in tierce. Number — cut 1 at left cheek. Number — parry with quarte, change quickly to the out

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                         33

 

General Observations.

 

side, step forward quickly with the right foot, bearing your adversary’s blade to the right, plant your left foot behind his right heel, seize the guard of his sword with your left hand, release your blade from his, and present the point to his breast.

167. Engage on hanging guard, blades crossed on the outside. Number — cut 3 at the feeble of your adver­sary’s blade, traversing at the same time to the left, and gliding the edge of your sword strongly against the back of his, step forward and seize the guard as at 156. Num­ber — avoid the disarm by turning the wrist instantly, as your antagonist attempts it, and cut at him inside.

158. All these disarms may be avoided by disengaging under the adverse blade and giving a time thrust or cut, or by springing back and delivering a time thrust.

 

GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.

 

169. The exercise with the broadsword, espadon or cut arid thrust, &c., is, from the nature of the weapons, imper­fect, as both the edge and point are to be guarded against; a parry which would effectually protect from the one, often not affording security from the other, and in some instances even giving an opening to it. A quick eye, ready hand, and agility, are therefore requisites in this ex­ercise, and to be obtained only by practice. With the small sword the defensive is maintained without moving from the position first taken, relying upon the eye and hand; but with a weapon which presents an edge as well as a point, and which often from its weight and form can­not be handled with like ease and dexterity, it sometimes. becomes necessary, and often is better, to avoid a cut or-thrust by springing out of reach of the blade. In all these eases, however, the parry should be formed to protect against the cut in case the longe of the adverse party should be further than expected. In making the cuts, generally, only from eight to ten inches of the point should be applied, and always with a slight extension or contraction of the arm, that a sawing motion may be given

3

 

34                                                                                                                                                 SWORD EXERCISE.                           

 

Practices.

 

to the edge, and an incision more readily effected. Thrust­ing is not the principal object with the broadsword, still, to understand well this part of the exercise, will be found useful in stopping the advance of an impetuous adversary, and in seizing many opportunities for time thrusts. which may be offered. Though the hanging guard parries all cuts, it will be useless if engaged on ‘the guard of quarte to attempt taking it against cuts 3 or 5, unless they have been preceded by a thrust at the outside. Attention to preserving a proper distance from one’s adversary is ne­cessary. No invariable distance can be recommended, as it depends upon the height, strength, and activity of one’s opponent. The must general principle is, that the left knee should be about six or eight inches beyond the reach of the antagonist’s point upon his most extended longe. If an adversary is allowed to approach too near, he may throw in cuts and ‘thrusts too rapidly ‘to be parried, par­ticularly if he first deceive by feints. When contending with an impetuous adversary who presses forward, it will be useful, if the nature of the ground will permit it, to frequenfly spring back, presenting the point at his face; in doing this, however, look out for his battering or other­wise attacking the blade.

In all the engagements, hold your adversary’s blade firmly with the edge of your own; and in parrying the cuts, present it with strength

 

PRACTICES.

 

160. Engage in tierce. Number — feint at left cheek, cut at right. Number — parry tierce, longe tierce.

161. Engage in tierce. Number — cut at left cheek. Number — parry quarte, longe quarte.

162. Engage in tierce. Number — longe quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce, and return cut 2 at the outside of the sword arm. Number — (1st called) parry with tierce (or hanging guard.)

163. Engage in tierce. Number — longe quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce, and dropping the

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                      35

 

Practices.

 

point return a cut at the cheek. Number — (1st called) parry with a hanging guard.

164. Engage in tierce. Number — longe quarte over the arm. Number — parry with tierce, and whirling the blade return the thrust of demi-circle. Number — (1st called) parry with demi-circle, and whirling the blade cut 4 at sword arm.

165. Engage in tierce. Number — cut 1 at your ad­versary ~5 blade, and longe quarte.

166. Engage in quarte. Number — cut 2 at your ad­versary’s blade and longe tierce.

167. Engage in tierce. Number — cut 3 at your ad­versary’s blade, and longe demi-circle.

168. Engage in quarte. Number — cut 4 at your ad­versary’s blade, and longe seconde.

169. Engage in tierce. Number — cut 6 at the ribs. Number — parry with seconde, and return cut 1 at the head Number — (1st called) parry with hanging guard, and return cut I at the bead. Number — parry with quarte, and return 4 at the sword arm, (or longe quarte)

170. Engage in tierce. Number — feint 6 at the ribs, cut 1 at the head. Number — cover the feint with se­conde, and parry with hanging guard, and return the thrust in tierce. Number — (1st called) parry with demi-­circle.

171. Engage in quarte. Number — threaten demi-cir­cle, and on your adversary’s forming the parry of demi­-circle, quickly raise the point and cut ~2 at the sword arm.

172. Engage in quarte. Number — cut 2 at the head. Number — parry with tierce, 2nd dropping the body and blade quickly return a cut at the outside of the leg. Num­ber — parry with seconde, and return a cut at the head.

173. Engage in quarte. Number feint 2 at the head, and cut 3 at the wrist. Number — parry with demi-circle, and return the thrust of quarte. Number — (1st called) parry with quarte, and return cut 2 at the head. Number—   (2d called) parry with tierce, and return cut 1 at the head.

174. Engage in tierce. Number — feint 2 at the head,

 

36                                                          SWORD EXERCISE.

 

The Cut and Thrust.

 

and cut 2 at the outside of sword arm. Number — parry tierce, and cut 1 at the head. Number — (1st Called) par­ry with hanging guard, and return cut 1 at the head. Number — (2d called) parry with hanging guard and longe tierce.

175. Engage in tierce. Hanging guard. Number —bearing against your adversary’s blade, quickly reverse the hand a d give a sawing cut 5 at your adversary’s wrist. Number — slip the cut by quickly drawing back the hand to the forehead, and whirling the blade, cut 1 at your ad­versary’s weapon to disarm him or uncover him, and longe quarte. Number —. (1st called) avoid the beat by raising the point and passing it over your adversary’s blade, and cut 1 at his sword arm.

176. Engage in tierce (or quarte.) Feint one, two, three, at head.

177. Engage in tierce (or quarte.) Feint one, two, at head, cut at the leg.

178. Engage in tierce (or quarte.) Feint one at head, two at leg or side, and cut at head.

 

THE ESPADON OR CUT AND THRUST.

 

 

179. The espadon being lighter than the broadsword, and made both to cut and thrust, is a weapon well adapted to those who understand the use of both the small and broad-swords, uniting the offensive and defensive movements of the two. In thrusting, the espadon has the advantage over the broadsword, but in cutting it is weaker in its effect. The chief defensive position of the espadon is the first po­sition of the hanging guard’—see 112. From this guard, by raising or dropping the hand and blade, moving it also to the right or left, as circumstances may require, all cuts and thrusts are parried. Although this is the principal guard, yet all those given for the broadsword will be found equally useful, especially to those who cannot retain the arm any length of time in that posture. In adopting the parries of tierce or quarte against a thrust, the hand should be sunk rather lower than when opposing a cut at the arm,

 

 

                                                      SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           37

 

The Cut and Thrust.

 

and the point should be presented as much as possible at the antagonist’s face.

180. The cuts with the espadon are made upon princi­ples similar to those of the broadsword. The weapon being lighter, and the blade held more horizontally, the dis­engaging may be effected with a smaller circle described b_3~ the point, and the attack made more rapidly.

181. The recovery from cuts 1 and 2, when the object at which they were directed is missed, may be rather more in front than with the broadsword or sabre, instead of the blade swinging so much to the outside or inside, as is ne­cessary with those weapons.

182. There is one cut within side the arm which is readily executed with the espadon, but which few have strength of arm enough to effect with the broadsword. It is thus performed:

183. Engage in tierce. Hanging guard. Number — feint a thrust in seconde, and if your adversary attempts to parry it with seconde, using the feeble of his blade, quickly reverse the hand to quarte without disengaging, and raising the point, cut at the inside of his sword arm. Number — slip the cut by withdrawing the arm, and at the same time cut 1 at the sword arm or head. If the first number feints and cuts with spirit, he will generally suc­ceed. Should the feint of seconde be parried by seconde, and with the fort of the blade, the party attempting it should spring back, cutting at the outside of the sword arm.

184. The best thrusts with the espadon are the same as those recommended for the broadsword but one who un­derstands the use of the small sword, can often advantage­ously apply its principles to this exercise.

185. In retiring from a superior force, the espadon should be brandished in front of the person from right to left, describing with the point the figure 8, the hand being held at the height of the shoulder, and reversed al­ternately quarte and tierce, that an edge may always lead. The motion of the blade must first be stopped before an attack can be safely made, while the next step in retreat will free it.

 

 

 

38                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

                 

The Stick or Cudgel.

              

THE STICK OR CUDGEL EXERCISE.

 

186. With a stick, the hanging guard is the most usual and safest engagement, and generally the best for parry­ing, as it affords more protection to the head and face, at which blows with a stick are generally aimed, and as the blows, when parried, slide from instead of towards 4he hand, thereby in a measure securing the knuckles. In taking the hanging guard with a stick, its point should be directed about six inches more to the outside of an oppo­nent’s right hip than with a sword, because, if held sta­tionary like the point of a sword, it will not prevent his advancing, but, on the contrary, may be seized with his left hand.

187. In parrying a blow with either quarte or fierce, the hand must be carried rather more to the left or right than with the sword, that the blow may be received upon it per­pendicularly, and the adverse stick rebound instead of sliding down to the knuckles.

188. In standing on guard with a stick, it is impossible to avoid presenting the knuckles as an object of attack; and the more correct the guard (that is, the less opening offered for a blow at the head or body) the more probable it will be that they will be selected for an attack. To avoid giving this opportunity the guard should be con­stantly changed from tierce to quarte, and to the hanging guard, threatening in each motion the face of the antag­onist.

189. Cudgel players seldom pay much attention to pro­tecting the outside of their right arm or ribs. It will not, however, be safe to strike at their outside, except in re­turning a blow after a parry; for if an attack is commenced at that part, they will probably throw in a cut at the face at the same instant, which cannot well be parried. The best method with them is to receive and. return a few blows on the hanging guard, and alternately intermixing the play with cuts at the wrist and elbow, and thrusting, thus keeping them at a greater distance than they have been accustomed to; and if by this mode of attack they

 

 

 

 

 

SWORD EXERCISE.                                                      37

 

The Stick or Cudgel.

 

can be induced to defend their ribs, feint at their outside, and cut at the head. Cudgel players not generally being in the habit of longeing at the time of striking, we can, by keeping them at a proper distance, he out of their reach, while they are within ours.

190. When contending with a person who advances impetuously, and particularly if at the same time striking rapidly, receive his blows upon a hanging guard, retreat­ing if necessary, and return a thrust beneath his arm, at his face, right side, or belly, grasping the stick firmly, that the thrust may be of sufficient force; recover quickly to a hanging guard. A thrust in the face, delivered with strength, will always stop an advancing adversary; fre­quently disable him.

191. When not disposed to become the assailant, but to induce an attack, the following expedient may be resorted to: Stand on a wide guard of tierce, the right foot advan­ced rather more than usual, offering as it were, carelessly, an opening for an attack at the head on the inside; the instant your adversary moves to seize this advantage, drop the point and form the hanging guard, at the same time drawing back the right foot; this will either parry, his blow or slip it, most probably the latter; in either case rapidly return a blow at the head. To execute this well requires practice.

192. Should an antagonist succeed in rushing close upon you, notwithstanding all endeavors to keep him off, he may be disarmed at the instant of closing by the following methods:

193. 1st. Advancing on a hanging guard. Oppose him with the same guard, suddenly lower the body by bending the knees, pass the left hand under the right, and seize with it his stick; throw the left foot and knee behind his right, and dart the pommel of your stick in his face, trip­ping up his right foot at the same instant.

194. 2d. Advancing on a hanging guard. Oppose him with the same guard, thrust the left arm over the sticks in the angle formed by their crossing, twine it around his right arm by passing your hand under his wrist, and over

 

 

40                                                             SWORD EXERCISE.

              

Opposing the Small Sword.

 

 his arm, and bear it downwards. Use the pommel of the stick and left foot as before.

195. 3d. Advancing on the guard of tierce. Lay hold of his stick with your left hand, and pull it downwards over your own, at the same time dropping your point and raising your weapon in seconde forcibly against his.

196. To disarm on the guard of quarte is not necessary, as, should an adversary close on that guard, a disengage­ment can be readily effected, and he becomes exposed to a disabling blow or thrust. There are other disarms, but these are given as the easiest and most readily executed.

 

OPPOSING THE SMALL SWORD.

 

197. In contending with a broadsword, sabre, or cut and thrust, against a small sword, the first object sheuld be to disable your antagonist’s sword arm if possible, by keeping the body well back, and springing off, the instant he Longes, out of the reach of his weapon, at the same time cutting at his arm. Be careful not to make wide motions, or to strike with too much exertion, and always recover to guard with your point well opposed to his face.

198. In parrying a thrust with the guard of tierce or quarte, sink the hand a little lower than when opposing a cut.

199. If your antagonist disengages from the guard of quarte to thrust below the wrist, follow his blade by drop­ping your point and forming seconde; having parried the thrust, reverse the hand to quarte, and quickly return a cut at his army or body.

200. If he drops his point from the guard of tierce to thrust under the wrist, parry with demi-circle or a hang­ing guard, and return a cut at the arm or body.

201. In either of the preceding cases, should your an­tagonist be so close as not to allow a sufficient sweep of your sword for a forcible cut, draw the edge swiftly across his arm or body, retreating or traversing at the same in­stant.

202. After parrying a thrust of the small sword, the

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                     41

 

Opposing the Cut and Thrust.

 

chief advantage with the broadsword is in returning a cut without longeing, particularly at the sword arm, thus avoiding the danger of rushing upon the adverse point in an eager attempt, by longeing, to effect a cut at the head or body.

 

OPPOSING THE ESPADON OR CUT AND THRUST.

 

203. To oppose this weapon with a broadsword or sabre, one must be a master of the parries against the thrusts de­scribed, (118,) &c.

204. It will be found sometimes advantageous with one who apparently depends upon the hanging guard, to oppose him with the guard of quarte, crossing the fort of your blade over the feeble of his, your point a little more than usual to the right of your line of defence, threatening the inside of his position, otherwise your weapon would be too parallel to his, and your person consequently not properly covered. In this position, if your antagonist attempts to thrust under your hand, parry by reversing to tierce, and lowering it a little. If he disengages under ‘your hand to thrust inside, your hand is already in quarte, and it will only be necessary to turn the point to the left, forming the parry of quarte. If he disengages over your point, he ex­poses the inside of his position and his sword arm to a time cut or thrust.

205. In attacking in this position, the easiest cut to effect will be on the outside of the sword arm, first feint­ing at the head or inside of the face, but be careful not to make wide motions. Another attack may be made with the fort of your blade on the feeble of his, beating it down­wards to his right, then reversing the hand, and cutting 6 at his ribs, recovering to’ guard of quarte. Attacks upon the blade are very useful, as by them a cut, thrust, or dis­arm, may be effected; but in attempting them, keep out of reach of a longe.

206. It will not be prudent to attempt beating the espadon to the outside of your position, as that beat can be easily slipped, and a thrust made at you on the inside.

 

 

 

 

42                                                           SWORD EXERCISE.

 

Opposing Bayonet and Cavalry.

 

Should your antagonist’s weapon be shorter than your own, be always ready to spring off from an attempt to close, otherwise he will get within your point, and the length of your sword will prove a disadvantage.

207. It is recommended to those not practised in using the hanging guard with the broadsword, never to oppose it to the espadon, except merely as a parry, for the espa­don is so much lighter, and consequently more readily handled, that by repeated feints the arm will be tired, and not able to follow its motions with sufficient celerity.

 

OPPOSING THE BAYONET.

 

208. It will generally be best to parry the bayonet to your right, by dropping the blade across the musket, as in seconde, the back of the fort of the blade being applied close behind the elbow of the bayonet, springing in with the left foot, and either seizing the barrel with the left hand, which, if effected, p4aces your adversary’s life in your power, or simply delivering a thrust. If it is neces­sary to parry the bayonet to your left, use demi-circle, ap­plying the fort of your blade to the hollow of the elbow of the bayonet, stepping off obliquely to the right with the right foot; return either a simple thrust, or seize the mus­ket with the left hand by passing it under the right.

209. Although the parries themselves may not have force enough to beat the bayonet far out of the line of de­fence, yet by stepping with the left or right foot according to the parry used, the line of defence is changed, while your blade prevents your antagonist from withdrawing his weapon, or following your motion with his point.

 

OPPOSING CAVALRY.

 

210.        Coolness and agility will be here particularly ne­cessary. The points with the sabre or lance are parried in the same manner as the thrusts, (118,) &c. The cuts with the sabre will generally be nearly vertical, and can he par­ried with a hanging guard, or the parry for the head. The

 

 

               SWORD EXERCISE.                                                           43

 

The Assault and Salute.

 

sweep of the lance, from its force, will probably beat down any guard that may be opposed to it; it is better therefore to avoid it by springing out of its reach, or within it, if possible, where the force of the blow will be less. A strong man, with a heavy and sharp sabre, may cut the staff in two by a well directed blow above the ears of the‘I lance head. In all cases after parrying, endeavor to re­turn a cut or thrust (a thrust is preferable) at the rider; but if he continues his course without checking, and the pace is too rapid to admit a return thrust or cut at him, give a swinging cut at the horse, to ham-string him if possible.

 

THE ASSAULT.

 

211. The assault with the broadsword, sabre, espadon or cut and thrust, is usually preceded by a salute. For the sake of conformity, that prescribed by the tactics has been adopted.

212. Taking positions as at 85, and having proved dis­tance as at 87, the parties will resume “the attention (2,)” facing each other. The instructor will then command:

 

SALUTE.

 

213. (1st motion.) Raise the sword, held perpendicu­larly, point up, opposite to the right eye; guard at the height of the shoulder; elbow supported against the body.

214. (2d motion.) Drop the point to the front to within six or eight inches of the ground, by extending the arm downward, bringing the hand in quarte to the side of the right thigh.

215. (3d motion.) Recover to the position of carry swords, (16.)

216. Resume the 1st position, and engage.

217. The practice of the preceding exercises with the left hand is strongly recommended as useful and amusing, developing the muscles of the left arm, side, and leg, and in prolonging a contest should the right arm be disabled, or in changing its chances by shifting the sword from the right hand to the left.