GENERAL ADVICE.
Never look at your own sword, but watch the eye and sword-wrist of your opponent.
Remember that the great point in this exercise, as in fencing, is to gain time. Endeavor, therefore, to advance your point nearer your adversary than his is to you.
Begin the assault out of distance, so that neither party can complain of being taken by surprise.
If the two parties exchange a cut or a thrust at the same moment, the one who gave his cut or thrust in the third position is victorious.
When a cut or thrust is made, the one who receives it passes his sword, i. e., stick, into his left hand, and his opponent comes to inside guard.
Always spring back to the second position after delivering a cut or thrust.
Keep the line of direction carefully, or you will leave an open space for the adversary to get his sword into.
Last and most important,—Don't lose your temper!