Sir Anthony Carlisle uses similar language:
"According to my judgment, the exercise of fencing tends to promote bodily health, and the development of athletic powers. It is likewise apparent that the attitudes and exertions of fencing are conducive to the manly forms and muscular energies of the human figure."
Again, Sir Everard Home, in still stronger terms:
"Of all the different modes in which the body can be exercised, there is none, in my judgment, that is capable of giving strength and velocity, as well as precision, to the action of all the voluntary muscles of the body in an equal degree as the practice of fencing, and none more conducive to bodily health."
I shall give one more extract from another physician of equal eminence, Dr. Babbington:
"I am of opinion that, in addition to the amusement which this exercise (fencing) affords, it is particularly calculated to excite in young persons a greater degree of energy and circumspection than they might otherwise possess; and it is obvious that, in respect of health, that mode of exertion is superior to all others, which, while it gives motion and activity to every part of the body, produces at the same time corresponding interest in the mind."
Sir John Sinclair, Dr. Pemberton, &c., speak in terms equally recommendatory.
To avoid all danger in the lessons and practice, foils are substituted for real swords. Strong wire masks are worn on the face, a well-padded glove on the hand; and the upper part of the body, at which alone the thrusts are aimed, is protected by a strong jacket, the right side and collar of which should be of leather.
The first movement a beginner has to learn, is the manner of placing himself in the position called