PLATE I.
Preliminary Position before going on Guard.
Turn the left foot to the left, and place the right in front of it, so that the back of the right heel touches the inside of the left. The feet will then be at right angles. Easing the grip, let the back of the sword rest in the hollow of the right shoulder, the sword-elbow touching the right hip, and the hand in a direct line in front of it. Close the left hand, and place it on the back of the left hip (so that it cannot be seen from the front), with the elbow thrown back.
Body half turned to the left, face full to the front.
PLATE II.—ENGAGING GUARD.
PLATE II.
Engaging Guard.
Move the sword-arm to the front until the hand is directly opposite the hollow of the right shoulder, bend the elbow slightly and raise it, sink the wrist, and turn up the middle knuckles and edge of the sword. Advance, and lower the point until it is nearly opposite and level with the left hip.
Then advance the right foot about twice its own length straight to the front, and at the same time bend both knees well. Keep the body and head upright, and divide their weight equally between both legs, with the loins well pressed in.
When this guard is properly formed, the upper knuckles and elbow are level and in line with the shoulder. It is called High Seconde.
On crossing swords, which should be about nine inches from each other’s point, when it is called an equal engagement, press your blade gently upon that of your adversary, so as to close the line in which you are engaged. By this means you are protected from a straight thrust.