The Second Part entreating of Deceits and Falsings



OF BLOWS AND THRUSTS



Being come to the end of the true Art, and having declaredall 

which seemed convenient and profitable for the attainment of 

true judgment in the handling of the weapon & of the entire 

knowledge of all advantages, by the which as well all disadvan-

tages are known: It shall be good that I entreat of Deceit or 

Falsing, aswell to perform my promise, as also to satisfy those 

who are greatly delighted to skirmish, not with the pretense to 

hurt or overcome, but rather for their exercise and pastime:



In which it is a brave and gallant thing and worthy of com-

mendations to be skillful in the apt managing of the body, feet 

and hands, in moving nimbly sometimes with the hand, 

sometimes with the elbow, and sometimes with the shoulder, in 

retiring, in increasing, in lifting the body high, in bearing it low 

in one instant: in brief, delivering swiftly blows aswell of the 

edge as of the point, both right and reversed, nothing regarding 

either time, advantage or measure, bestowin them at random 

every way. But diverse men being blinded in their own conceits, 

do in these actions certainly believe that they are either more 

nimble, either more wary & discreet then their adversary is: of 

which their foolish opinion they are beastly proud and arrogant:



And because it has many times happened them, either with a 

false thrust, or edge blow, to hurt or abuse the enemy, they 

become lofty, and presume thereon as though their blows were 

not to be warded. But yet for the most part it falls out, that by a 

plain simple swab having only a good stomach and stout 

courage, they are chopped in with a thrust, and so miserably 

slain.For avoiding of this abuse, the best remedy is, that they 

exercise themselves in delivering these falses only in sport, and 

(as I have before said) for their practice and pastime: Resolving 

themselves for a truth, that when they are to deal with any 

enemy, & when it is upon danger of their lives, they must then 

suppose the enemy to be equal to themselves aswell in 

knowledge as in strength, & accustom themselves to strike in as 

little time as is possible, and that always being well warded. And 

as for these Falses or Slips, they must use them for their 

exercises & pastimes sake only, and not presume upon them, 

except it beagainst such persons, who are either much more 

slow, either know not the true principals of this Art. For Deceit 

or Falsing is no other thing, then a blow or thrust delivered, not 

to the intent to hurt or hit home, but to cause the enemy to 

discover himself in some part, by means whereof a man may 

safely hurt him in the same part. And look how many blows or 

thrusts there may be given, so many falses or deceits may be 

used, and a great many more, which shall be declared in their 

proper place: The defense likewise whereof shall in few words 

be last of all laid upon you.



DECEITS OR FALSINGS OF THE SINGLE

SWORD, OR SINGLE RAPIER



As I take not Victory to the end and scope of falsing, but rather 

nimbleness of body and dexterity in play: So, casting aside the 

consideration how a man is either covered or discovered, and 

how he has more or less advantage, I say that there may be 

framed at single sword so many wards, as there be ways to move 

the hand and foot.



Therefore in falsing there may be framed the high, low, and 

broad ward, with the right foot behind and before: a man may 

bear his sword with the point backwards and forwards: he may 

bear his right hand on the left side, with his sword's point 

backwards: he may stand at the low ward with the point 

backwards and forwards, bending towards the ground. And 

standing in all these ways, he may false a thrust above, and force 

it home beneath above, he may false it without and deliver it 

within, or contrariwise.



And according to the said manner of thrusting he may deliver 

edgeblows, right, reversed, high and low, as in that case shall 

most advantage him. Farther he may false an edgeblow, and 

deliver it home: as for example, to false a right blow on high, 

and deliver home a right and reverse blow, high or low. In like 

for the reverse is falsed, by delivering right or reverse blows, 

high or low.



But it is to be considered, that when he bears his sword with his 

point backwards, he false no other then the edgeblow, for then 

thrusts are discommodious. And because men do much use at 

this weapon, to beat off the point of the sword with their 

hands: therefore he must in that case for his greater readiness & 

advantage, suffer his sword to sway to that side, whether the 

enemy bears it, joining to that motion as much force as he may, 

performing therein a full circular blow, and delivering it at the 

enemy.



And this blow is most ready, and so much the rather, it is 

possible to be performed, by how much the enemy thinks not, 

that the sword will passe in full circle that way, for the enemy 

being somewhat disappointed, by beating off the sword, after 

which beating, he is also to deliver his thrust, he cannot so 

speedily speed both those times but that he shalbe first struck 

with the edge of the sword, which he had before so beaten off.



GENERAL ADVERTISEMENTS CONCERNING

THE DEFENSES.



Because it chances commonly, that in managing of the hands, 

men bear no great regard, either to time or advantage, but do 

endeavor themselves after diverse & sundry ways & means to 

encounter the enemy's sword: therefore in these cases, it is very 

profitable to know how to strike, and what may be done in the 

shortest time.



The enemy's sword is encountered always either above, either in 

the middle, either beneath: & in all these ways a man finds 

himself to stand either above, either beneath, either within, 

either without. And it falls out always that men find 

themselvesunderneath with the sword at the hanging ward, 

when they are to ward high edgeblows or thrusts: and this way 

is most commonly used: The manner whereof is, when the 

hand is lifted up to defend the sword being thwarted, and the 

point turned downwards : when one finds himself so placed, he 

ought not to recover his sword from underneath, and then to 

deliver an edgeblow, for that were too long, but rather to strike 

nimbly that part of the enemy underneath, which is not 

warded, so that he shall do no other then turn his hand & 

deliver an edgeblow at the legs which surely speeds.



But if he find himself in defense either of the reverse or thrust, 

to bear his sword aloft and without, and not hanging, in this 

the safest thing is, to increase a pace, and to seize upon the 

enemy's hand or arm.



The self same he ought to do, finding himself in the middle, 

without and underneath: But if he find himself within, he 

cannot by any means make any seizure, because he shall then be 

in great peril to invest himself on the point of the enemy's 

sword. 



Therefore to avoid the said point or thrust, he must turn his fist 

and deliver an edgeblow at the face, and withdraw himself by 

voiding of his foot towards the broad ward. And if he find 

himself beneath, & have encountered the enemy's edgeblow, 

either with the edge, or with the false or back of the sword, 

being beneath: then without any more ado, he ought to cut the 

legs, and void himself from the enemy's thrust. And let this be 

taken for a general rule: the body must be borne as far off from 

the enemy as it may. And blows always are to be delivered on 

that part which is found to be most near, be the stroke great or 

little. And each man is to be advertised that when he finds the 

enemy's weapon underneath at the hanging ward, he may safely 

make a seizure: but it would be done nimbly and with good 

courage, because he does then increase towards his enemy in 

the straight line, that is to say, increase on pace, and 

therewithall take holdfast of the enemy's sword, near the hilts 

thereof, yea though his hand were naked, and under his own 

sword presently turning his hand outwards, which of force 

wrests the sword out of the enemy's hand: neither ought he to 

fear to make seizure with his naked hand, for it is in such a 

place, that if should with his hand encounter a blow, happily it 

would not cut because the weapon has there very small force. 

All the hazard will be, if the enemy should draw back his sword, 

which causes it to cut. For in such sort it will cut mightily: but 

he may not give leisure or time to the enemy to draw back, but 

as soon as the seizure is made, he must also turn his hand 

outwards: in which case, the enemy has no force at all.



These manner of strikings ought and may be practiced at all 

other weapons. Therefore this rule ought generally to be ob-

served, and that is, to bear the body different from the enemy's 

sword, and to strike little or much, in small time as is possible.



And if one would in delivering of a great edgeblow, use small 

motion and spend little time he ought as soon as he has struck, 

to draw or slide his sword, thereby causing it to cut: for 

otherwise an edgeblow is to no purpose, although it be very 

forcibly delivered, especially when it lights on any soft or limber 

thing: but being drawn, it does every way cut greatly.



OF SWORD AND DAGGER, OR RAPIER AND DAGGER.



All the wards which are laid down for the single sword, may 

likewise be given for the sword and dagger. And there is greater 

reason why they should be termed wards in the handling of 

this, than of the single sword, because albeit the sword is borne 

unorderly, & with such disadvantage, that it wards in a manner 

no part of the body, yet there is a dagger which continually 

stands at his defense, in which case, it is not convenient that a 

man lift up both his arms and leave his body open to the 

enemy: for it is neither agreeable to true, neither to false art 

considering that in each of them the endeavor is to overcome. 

And this manner of lifting up the arms, is as if a man would of 

purpose be overcome: Therefore, when in this deceitful and 

false art, one is to use two weapons, he must take heed that he 

bear the one continually at his defense, and to handle the other 

every way to molest the enemy: sometime framing one ward, 

sometimes an other : and in each of them to false, that is, to 

feign a thrust, and deliver a thrust, to false a thrust, and give an 

edgeblow: and otherwise also, to false an edgeblow, and to 

deliver an edgeblow. And in all these ways to remember, that 

the blow be continually different from the false: That is, if the 

thrust be falsed above to drive it home below: If within, yet to 

strike without, and falsing an edgeblow above, to bestow it 

beneath: or falsing a right blow, to strike with the reverse: or 

sometimes with a right blow, but yet differing from the other. 

And after an edgeblow on high, to deliver a reverse below. In 

fine, to make all such mixture of blows, as may bear all these 

contrarieties following, to wit, the point, the edge, high, low, 

right, reversed, within, without. But, I see not how one may 

practice any deceit with the dagger, the which is not openly 

dangerous. As for example, to widen it and discover some part 

of the body to the enemy, thereby provoking him to move, and 

then warding, to strike him, being so disappointed: but in my 

opinion, these sorts of falses of discovering the body, ought not 

to be used: For it behooves a man, first, safely defend to 

himself, and then to offend the enemy, the which he cannot do, 

in the practice of the said falses, if he chance to deal with an 

enemy that is courageous and skillful. But this manner of 

falsing next following, is to be practiced last of all other, and as 

it were in desperate cases. And it is, either to feign, as though 

he would forcibly fling his dagger at the enemy's face, (from the 

which false, he shall doubtless procure the enemy to ward 

himself, either by lifting up the arms, or by retiring himself, or 

by moving towards one side of other, in which travail & time, a 

man that is very wary and nimble, may safely hurt him) or else 

instead of falsing a blow, to fling the dagger indeed at the 

enemy's face. In which chance or occasion, it is necessary that 

he have the skill how to stick the dagger with the point. But yet 

howsoever it chance, the coming of the dagger in such sort, 

does so greatly trouble and disorder the enemy, that if a man 

step in nimbly, he may safely hurt him. 



These deceits and falses, of the sword and dagger, may be 

warded according as a man finds it most commodious either 

with the sword, or else with the dagger, not regarding at all (as 

in true art) to defend the left side with the dagger, and the right 

side with the sword: For in this false art men consider not either 

of advantage, time, or measure, but always their manner is (as 

soon as they have found the enemy's sword) to strike by the 

most short way, be it either with the edge, or point, 

notwithstanding the blow be not forcible, but only touch 

weakly & scarcely: for in play, so it touch any way, it is 

accounted for victory.



Concerning taking holdfast, or seizing the enemy's sword, I 

commend not in any case, that seizure be made with the left 

hand, by casting a way of the dagger, as else I have seen it 

practiced: but rather that it be done keeping the sword and 

dagger fast in hand. And although this seem impossible, yet 

every one that is nimble & strong of arm, may safely do it. And 

this seizure is used aswell under an edgeblow, as under a thrust 

in the manner following.



When an edgeblow or thrust comes above, it must be 

encountered with the sword without, on the third or fourth 

part of the enemy's sword, and with the dagger born within, on 

the first or second part thereof: having thus suddenly taken the 

enemy's sword in the middle, to turn forcibly the enemy's 

sword outwards with the dagger, keeping the sword steadfast, 

and as straight towards the enemy as possible by means whereof 

it may the more easily be turned. And there is no doubt but the 

enemy's sword may be wrung out of his hand, and look how 

much nearer the point it is taken, so much the more easily it is 

turned or wrested outwards, because it makes the greater circle, 

and the enemy has but small force to resist that motion.



OF SWORD AND CLOAK, OR RAPIER AND CLOAK



For to deceive the enemy with the cloak, it is necessary to know 

how many ways it may serve the turn, and to be skillful how to 

fold it orderly about the arm, and how to take advantage by the 

largeness thereof: and farther to understand how to defend, and 

how to offend and hinder the enemy therewith, because it fails 

not always, that men fight with their cloak wrapped about the 

arm, and the sword in hand, Therefore it is the part of a wise 

man, to know also how to handle the cloak after any other 

manner.



Wherefore one may get the advantage of the Cloak, both when 

it is about his body, and when it is folded about his arm: The 

Cloak eing about the arm in this manner. When it chances that 

any man to bicker with his enemy, with whom he is at point to 

join, but yet happily wears about him at that instant no kind of 

weapon, whereas his enemy is weaponed, & threatens him, 

then by taking both sides of the cloak as near the collar as is 

possible, he may draw if over his own head, and throw it at his 

enemy's face, who then being entangled and blinded there with, 

may either be thrown down, or disfurnished of his weapon very 

easily by him that is nimble, especially if he have to deal against 

one who is slow. A man may after another manner take the 

advantage of the cloak which the enemy wears, by taking with 

one hand both sides thereof, near the collar: which sides being 

strongly held, cause the cloak to be a gin being violently held, 

and plucked with one hand, he may so forcibly strike him with 

the other on the face or visage, that he will go near hand to 

break his neck.



There be many other ways whereby one may prevail with the 

cloak, to the greatest part whereof, men of mean judgment may 

easily attain unto. Therefore when one has his cloak on his arm, 

and sword in his hand, the advantage he gets thereby, besides 

the warding of blows, for that has been declared in the true art 

is, that he may molest his enemy by falsing to fling his cloak, 

and then to fling it in deed. But to false the flinging of the cloak 

is very dangerous, because it may not be done but in long time. 

And the very flinging of the cloak, is as it were a preparation to 

get the victory, and is in a manner rather true art then deceit, 

considering it is done by the straight or some other short line: 

neither for any other cause is this the rather here laid down, in 

deceit, then before in true art, then for that when one 

overcomes by this means, he seems not to conquer manfully, 

because he strikes the enemy before blinded with the cloak. 

Therefore when one minds to fling his cloak, he may either do 

it from and with his arm, or else with his sword: in so doing it 

is necessary, that he have not the cloak too much wrapped 

about his arm: I say, not above twice, neither to hold it straight 

or fast with his hand, that thereby he may be the better able 

when occasion serves to fling it more easily. If therefore he 

would fling it with his arm, and have it go with such fury, and 

make such effect as is required, he must of force join to the 

flinging thereof the increase of a pace, on that side where the 

cloak is, but first of all he must encounter, either find, either so 

endure the enemy's sword, that by the means of the increase of 

that pace it may do no hurt.



And it is requisite in every occasion, that he find himselfto 

stand without: and when either an edgeblow or a thrust comes, 

be it above or in the middle, as soon as he has warded it with 

his sword, he shall increase a pace and fling his cloak, howsoev-

er it be folded, either from the collar, either from any other 

part, or else to hale it off from his shoulder, although it be on 

his shoulder: and in this order it is easily thrown, & is thereby 

the more widened in such sort, that the enemy is the more 

entangled and snared therewith.



Concerning the flinging of the cloak with the sword, I say, it 

may be thrown either with the point, either with the edge: with 

the point when one stands at the low ward with the right foot 

behind, and the cloak before: In which case the cloak that 

would be well and thick doubled and placed on the arm, but 

not wrapped. And instead of driving a thrust with the point 

which shalbe hidden behind the cloak, he shall take the cloak 

on the point of the sword, and with the increase of a pace, force 

it at the enemy's face. And in this manner the cloak is so 

forcibly, and so covertly delivered and flung, that the enemy is 

neither aware of it, neither can avoid it, but of force it lights on 

his face, by means whereof, he may be struck at pleasure in any 

part of the body.



The cloak may be flung or thrown with the edge of the sword, 

when one stands at the low ward, with the point of the sword 

turned backwards, one the left side and the cloak upon it, 

folded at large upon the arm up to the elbow: but not fast 

wrapped about it, and whilst he falses a reverse, he may take the 

cloak on the edge of the sword and fling it towards the enemy, 

and then strike him with such a blow as shall be then most fit 

for his advantage deliver.



Many other deceits there may be declared of the cloak, aswell of 

flinging as of falsing it : but because I think these to be 

sufficient for an example to frame many other by, I make an 

end.



FALSING OF BLOWS,

OF SWORD AND BUCKLER  SQUARE TARGET,

AND ROUND TARGET



Being of the opinion that as touching deceit, there is but one 

consideration to be had of all these three weapons, and for 

because all the difference which may be between them is laid 

down and declared in the true art, in the consideration of form 

of each of them: Therefore I am willing rather to restrain 

myself, then to endeavor to fill the lease with the idle repetition 

of one thing twice.



All these three weapons ought to be borne in the fist, the arm 

stretched out forwards, and this is evidently seen in the square 

Target and buckler: the round Target also, because by reason of 

his greatness and weight, it may not be held in the only fist, & 

forward, in which kind of holding, it would ward much more is 

borne on the arm, being stretched forth with the fist forwards, 

which is in manner all one, or the self same. Therefore one may 

false as much with the one as with the other, considering there 

is no other false used with them then to discover and frame 

diverse wards, bearing no respect to any advantage. And yet 

there is this difference between them, that with the round 

Target, one may easily ward both edgeblows and thrusts, and 

with the square Target, better than with any other, he may 

ward edgeblows, because it is of square form: and the edge of 

the sword may easily be retained with the straight side thereof, 

which is not so easily done with the buckler: for over and be-

sides the warding of thrusts, the buckler is not so sure of itself, 

but requires aid of the sword. Edgeblows also when they come a 

thwart (for in that case, they encounter the circumference 

thereof: the which if it chance, the sword not to encounter on 

the diameter, or half, in which place the sword is only stayed, 

but does encounter it, either beneath, either above the said 

diameter (may easily slip and strike either the head or thighs : 

therefore let every man take heed and remember, that in 

striking at the buckler, either with the point or edge of the 

sword, he deliver it crossing or a thwart.



As concerning the falses and deceits, which may be used in the 

handling of these weapons, as at the single sword, they are 

infinite, so at these weapons they are much more, if the number 

of infinite may be exceeded. For besides, that with the sword 

one may false a thrust, an edgeblow, on high, a low, within 

without, and frame diverse other unorderly wards, There 

remains one deceit or false properly belonging unto these, 

which is, to bear the buckler, square Target, or round Target, 

wide from the body, and therewithall to discover himself, to the 

end the enemy may be hindered, and lose time in striking, 

being therewithall sure & nimble to defend himself & offend 

the enemy. And this he may practice in every ward, but more 

easily with the square Target than with the other two, because 

it is big and large enough, & may easily encounter and find the 

enemy's when it comes striking: but this happens not in the 

round Target, because his form is circular, neither in the 

buckler, because, besides his roundness, it is also small: by 

means of which two things, blows are very hardly encountered 

except a man be very much exercised in the handling thereof. 

And because there are two weapons, the one of offense, and the 

other of defense: it is to be considered, that when by means of a 

false thrust or edgeblow, the enemy's round Target, square 

Target or buckler, is only bound to his ward, and his sword 

remains free and at liberty, one resolve himself to strike 

immediately after the falsed thrust, for then he may very easily 

be hurt by the enemy's sword. Therefore let him remember for 

the most part, to false such thrusts, against the which, besides 

the weapon of defense, the sword be also bound to his ward, or 

else to false edgeblows from the knee downwards: for seeing the 

round target, or any of the other two, may not be used in that 

placed at his defense, which as soon as it is found, and thereby 

ensured that it may do no hurt, a man may then step forwards, 

and deliver such a blow as he best may without danger.



AN ADVERTISEMENT CONCERNING THE DEFENSES

OF THE FALSE OF THE ROUND TARGET.



Every time one uses to false with round Target, square Target, 

and buckler, or as I may better say, with the sword accompa-

nied with them, he falses either an edgeblow, either a thrust, 

either leaves some part of the body before discovered. Against 

all the falses of the edge, which come from the knee upwards, 

the round Target or any of the rest, must be oppressed, and 

then suddenly under them a thrust be delivered, against that 

part which is most disarmed. But if blows come from the knee 

downwards, they of force must be encountered with the sword, 

and always with the false or back edge thereof, whether that the 

blow be right or reversed: & therewithall the enemy's leg must 

be cut with the edge prepared without moving either the feet or 

the body. And this manner of striking is so short that it safely 

speeds. Moreover, all thrusts and other edgeblows, aswell high 

as low may, nay rather ought to be warded, by accompanying 

the target or other weapon of defense with the sword, whose 

point would be bent towards the enemy, & as soon as the 

enemy's sword is encountered, if it be done with the false edge 

of the sword, there is no other to be done, then to cut his face 

or legs. But if the sword be encountered with the right edge 

then if he would strike with the edge, he must of force first turn 

his hand and so cut. And this manner of striking and defending, 

does properly belong unto the round Target, square Target and 

buckler, and all other ways are but ane and to small purpose: for 

to encounter first and then to strike, causes a man to find 

himself either within the enemy's Target or sword, by which 

means he may easily strike, before either the sword or Target 

may ward again.



But if any man ask why this kind of blow carries small force, 

and is but weak? I answer, true it is, the blow is but weak, if it 

were delivered with an axe or a hatchet, which as they say, have 

but short edges, and makes but one kind of blow, but if it be 

delivered with a good sword in the foresaid manner, because it 

bears a long edge, it does commodiously cut, as soon as the edge 

has found the enemy's sword, and especially on those parts of 

the body which are fleshly and full of sinews. Therefore 

speaking of deceit or falsing, a man must always with the sword 

and round Target and such like, go and encounter the enemy's 

blows, being accompanied together. And as soon as he has 

found the enemy's sword, he shall within it, cut either the face or the legs, 

without any further recovery of his sword, to the intent to 

deliver either thrusts, or greater edgeblows: for if one would 

both defend and strike together, that is the most short way 

that is.



But when the enemy discovers some part of his body, 

thereby provoking his adversary to strike, and then would 

beat off the blow and strike him withal: in this case, either a 

man must not strike if he perceive not that his sword is most 

near the enemy, then his own Target is to the enemy's 

sword, or else if he would strike and be further off, he must 

recover his sword and void the enemy's blow, striking 

commodiously ether above ether somewhere else. And it is 

a very easy matter to lose much time, for the Target and 

such like are heavy, And if these motions meet with no 

object or stay, they pass beyond their strength. But if it so 

happen or chance, as I have before said, that a man finds 

himself more near to hurt then the enemy, then the enemy is 

ready to defend himself, then he must not false a blow first, 

and then recover his sword, but strike and drive it home at 

first, as resolutely and as nimbly as he may possibly: and this 

manner of striking pertains rather to the true art then to 

deceit or falsing.







OF THE FALSES OF THE TWO SWORDS:

OR RAPIERS 



These kind of weapons have so great liberty of striking or 

warding, and are so intermeddled the one with the other, as 

no other sort of weapon is, which I may compare with 

these. There may be framed an infinite company of wards 

with these weapons, and all of them sure, except two, which 

are framed and borne without, and are these as follows.



To bear both swords with their points backward: for this 

manner of warding, is as if one would of purpose cause 

himself to be slain: or else to bear both aloft, which a man 

may hardly sustain, considering the paizes of the swords are 

naturally heavy and tend downwards, so that the arms are 

much encumbered thereby. Therefore from these two which 

are framed without, shalbe laid down, all those which may 

be found and may be framed in the handling of these 

weapons: as for example, high wards, low, wide, altered, 

diminished, and all those wards which are mixed, as to 

frame with one sword the high ward, with the other the 

broad ward, and to frame the low and broad ward, the high 

and low ward, two low wards, and two broad wards: but 

yet these last two are as painful as the two high wards, and 

therefore shall not be used. Moreover, a man may bear one 

sword with the point forwards, and the other backwards, 

and he may further, very easily find out and practice diverse 

other ways, if he consider in how many ways a man may 

move his hands, his arms, his feet, and his whole person: for 

each of these motions are sufficient of themselves, to alter 

the ward. In all these wards, he may with either hand and 

sword, practice to false against the enemy, sometimes by 

feigning, sometimes by discovery. And this is properly 

belonging to these weapons, to wit, to false with one, and to 

strike home, either with the self same, or with the other 

weapon: and likewise discover with the one, and ward with 

the self same, or with the other, the which never yet to this 

day was or might be done with any other weapon. For in the 

handling of other weapons, that which falses, does in like 

manner strike home, so that of force, there are spent two 

times: for which consideration men hold opinion, that 

falsing is occasion both of great hurt, and also of loss of 

time. But yet this happens not in these weapons, which 

forasmuch as they are two, and are of equal power both in 

striking and defending, may be handled both after one 

fashion. And presupposing always that one is skillful to 

handle the one aswell as the other, he may discharge at self 

same time two thrusts, two edgeblows, both right and 

reversed.



But if he would exercise himself only in sport and play, he 

shall then continually use to strike his enemy with one, and 

defend his person with the other. Therefore when one deals 

against an enemy that has two swords, one of the which 

may always increase a pace, and strike either with a thrust, 

or with the edge, from that sword he must take heed to 

ward himself, for it is very forcible, and always brings great 

danger and peril with it: The other sword which was before, 

makes no increase of pace and therefore cannot strike more 

then the defense and strength of the arm will bear, and that 

is weak to strike, but yet very strong to defend: and the self 

same accidents and qualities, which are found to be in the 

enemy, are incident also to ourselves. Wherefore one finds 

that he stands with his right foot before, be it in any ward 

whatsoever, he may false with the fore sword and strike 

home with the same, or else he may false with his hind 

sword, and strike with the self same: or else after a third 

way, to wit, to false with the one, and hit home with the 

other: And this kind of false, does more properly belong to 

the two swords then any other, but yet he must take heed 

and very well remember that while he falses with the one, 

and would strike home with the same, that he bear the other 

directly opposite against the enemy. For whilst the enemy is 

bound to ward the false, and homeblowe of the one sword, 

he may come in with the other and strike, if he find any 

place either discovered or easy to enter: So that bearing this 

rule continually in remembrance, which is in the fight of two 

swords, to bear always the one directly against the enemy, 

to the intent to hinder him, that he resolve not himself to 

enter, he shall endeavor to false, sometimes with the one, 

and sometimes with the other sword, sometimes a thrust, 

sometimes an edgeblow, and then to drive it home, either 

with the same sword that falses, or else with the other. But 

in practice, and doing of all of this, it is required that he be 

of deep judgment, knowing presently upon the false, what 

art of the body the enemy discovers, increasing thither, and 

investing the enemy with that sword which is most nigh to 

that part, and with the which he may most safely strike.



And it is to be considered, that it is a very strong and short 

way of striking, to false with the fore sword either a thrust 

or an edgeblow, and to false them not once or twice, but 

diverse times, now aloft, now beneath, sometimes with a 

thrust, some times with an edgeblow, to the intent, to blind 

and occupy the enemy's both swords, and at last when fit 

occasion serves, to strike it home with the hind sword: but 

yet always with the increase of a pace. The false which may 

be practice with the hind sword, is unprofitable being make 

without the motion of a pace, for it is so short that it is to 

no purpose. Therefore it cannot busy the enemy's swords in 

such manner, that it may force him either to discover or 

disorder his body. From whence it may be gathered, that 

after this false of the hind sword, it is no sure play to strike 

either with the self same hind sword, or else with the fore 

sword, because the enemy was neither in any part 

discovered or troubled. The best thing therefore that may be 

done, if one would false with the hind sword, is, to drive 

either a thrust or an edgeblow, resolutely striking with the 

increase of a pace, and as the enemy moves to defend 

himself, to strike him with the same sword, in some place 

that is discovered: For he cannot strike with the other sword 

for by that means of the increase of the hind sword, that the 

sword which was before, remains now behind, So that it 

may not strike, except it increase a pace, and to increase 

again, were to spend much time. Therefore when one 

endeavors with the increase of a pace to force his sword 

within, he shall assay to strike it home, with the self same 

sword because as I have before said, to strike with the other 

were too long. Wherefore I will lay down this for a rule, in 

the handling of these weapons, that if a man false with the 

fore sword, he may also strike home with the same or with 

the other, so that he increase And if he false with the hind 

sword, he shall presently, and resolutely force the blow 

home with the same sword, but yet with the increase of a 

pace: but if he do not fully deliver it, he shall again procure 

immediately to strike home with the self same sword, either 

with a thrust, or edgeblow, be it high or low, as at that 

instant shall be most commodious to serve the turn.



AN ADVERTISEMENT CONCERNING THE 

DEFENSES

OF THE TWO SWORDS, OR RAPIERS.



In sport or play one may stand every way against the enemy, 

to wit, if the enemy be on high, to settle himself at his ward, 

low or broad. But it is more gallant to behold and more 

commodious indeed to place himself against the enemy in 

the very self same foot before, and in the very same site that 

he is in, either high or low. For standing in such manner, the 

enemy may hardly endeavor with his false, to trouble or 

busy both swords. And moreover it must be considered, that 

the fore sword is that which wards both falses, and resolute 

blows, the which it does very easily perform: For it be borne 

aloft, then by the bending of the point down, it defends that 

part of the body, to the which it is turned. Remembering 

therefore these rules, which are, to stand every way as the 

enemy does, and to ward his falses with the fore sword, I 

say, where any falses or blows come: then as soon as he has 

warded them with the fore sword, he shall increase a slope 

pace, and with the hind sword deliver either a thrust at some 

discovered place, either a right blow with the edge at the 

legs, or else (which is better) shall fetch a reverse, either 

athwart the face, or else athwart the arms, and his blow 

does most easily speed: for the enemy's fore sword is 

occupied, and his hind sword cannot come to oppose itself 

against this blow: neither may it so easily strike, because (by 

the increase of the foresaid slope pace) the body is moved 

out of the straight line, so that the enemy may not so 

commodiously strike with his hind sword, but that he shalbe 

first struck on the face or on the arms.



Wherefore, let every man resolve himself, (as soon as he has 

encountered the enemy's sword with his own fore sword) 

that he step in and strike with his hind sword. Neither, let 

him stand in fear of the enemy's hind sword: for either it 

cannot hurt because the body is voided (as I have said,) or 

else, if it may, it must presently provide to stand to his 

defense, and thereto is so bound, that it may do no manner 

of hurt.



FALSING OF BLOWS,

OF THE TWO HAND SWORD.



For the deceits and falses of the two hand sword, there is no 

more regard to be taken in the handling thereof single, that 

is, one to one, then there is, when it is used among many: 

only this end is to be purposed, to wit, to move and handle 

with all nimbleness and dexterity, aswell the edge as the 

point, fetching those great circular and unruly compassings, 

therewith as his form, greatness, and manner of holding 

requires.



Neither ought a man so much regard to fetch a small or 

great compass, or to strike more with the point then with 

the edge, but must believe only that the victory consists in 

the nimble and active guiding there of any manner of way. 

Therefore there may be framed many wards, of all the 

which, being a thing superfluous to reason of, I will handle 

only six of them, which are most commodious and usual: 

whereof the first may be called the high ward, the second 

the broad ward, the third the low ward, from which there 

springs all other three, towards the other side, making six in 

all.



The high ward is framed by bearing the sword and arms 

lifted up on high and wide from the body, with the point of 

sword turned towards that part, as that arm is, whose hand 

is place by the cross, that is to say, if the right hand shalbe 

at the cross, and the right foot before, to bear also the 

sword, with his point towards that side.



There is also an other high ward opposite to this and that is, 

without moving the feet at all to turn the point towards the 

other side, that is, towards the left side and to cross the 

arms. And it is to be noted, that in this high ward, be it on 

what side it will, the sword is to be borne with the point 

turned downwards.



The second is the broad ward, and must be framed with the 

arms widened from the body, not high but straight. And 

from this springs and is framed another broad ward, turned 

towards the other side by crossing of the arms.



And the third is the low ward, and in this the sword would 

be borne with the point somewhat upwards. And this ward 

has his opposite or contrary, by turning the sword on the 

other side, and crossing the arms. There may be framed 

many other wards: As for example, to bear the sword on 

high, with the point backwards, to the intent to drive a 

down right, or cleaving edgeblow: or else to bear it low 

with the point backwards, to the intent to drive it from 

beneath upwards. But in these wards falses are to small 

purpose: And if there be any one of them worth using, it 

should be the false of an edgeblow, the which at two hand 

sword is not to be used at all, because there is much time 

lost considering that immediately after the false, he must 

strike home with an edgeblow. For it is not commodious at 

the two hand sword, to false an edgeblow, and deliver home 

a thrust, because the weight or swing of the sword in 

delivering an edgeblow, transports the arms beyond their 

strength, so that they may very difficultly withhold the blow 

to such purpose, that they may be ale as it were in that 

instant to deliver a thrust. Therefore the false that should be 

used at the two hand sword, ought always to be framed 

with a thrust, and then an edgeblow right or reversed to be 

delivered, or else to false a high thrust, and deliver it 

beneath or elsewhere. But yet if one would needs false an 

edgeblow, let him do it with the false edge of the sword, 

then turning it in full circle, to deliver home the edgeblow, 

and in striking always to increase a pace. But when this false 

of the back or false edge is practiced, the arms being 

crossed, then if he would step forwards to strike he must 

increase a pace with the right foot. And if in any of these 

wards he would false a thrust, which is the best that may be 

used at the two hand sword, he must observe the very same 

notes and rules concerning the increasing of the pace. 

Further the thrust is falsed, and the edgeblow delivered 

home at the two hand sword for no other cause or 

consideration, then for that the said edgeblow is far more 

forcible then the thrust: For the two hand sword is long, by 

means whereof, in the delivery of the edgeblow, it makes a 

great circle. And moreover, it so weighty that very little and 

small strength, makes and forces the blow to go with great 

violence. But for as much as the striking with the edge is 

very dangerous considering it spends much time, and 

especially in the great compassing of the two hand sword, 

under which time wary and active persons may with the 

sword or other weapon give a thrust, Therefore for the 

avoiding of this danger, he must before he determine with 

himself to strike with the edge, first drive on a thrust, rather 

resolute then falsed, and as far forwards as both arms will 

stretch. In doing of the which, he shall force the enemy to 

retire so much, that he may easily thereupon deliver his 

edgeblow with the increase of a pace, nothing doubting that 

the enemy will strike home first with a thrust. Therefore 

when one stands at the high ward, one either side he must 

false a thrust, and increase a pace delivering therewithal 

such an edgeblow, as shall be most commodious to serve his 

turn, either right or reversed. And further may practice the 

like in the broad and low wards, in either of the which, it is 

more easy to false the said thrust, then in the other.



And it is to be considered, when the edgeblow after the 

falsed thrust, is by a slope pace voided, that he suffer not his 

arms and sword by reason of the weight or swing thereof, 

far transported beyond his strength, that the sword light 

either on the ground or that he be forced thereby to 

discover all that part of his body which is before. Therefore 

the best remedy is, as soon as he shall perceive that he has 

delivered his blow in vain, that he suffer his sword to go 

(not with a full thwart circle, and so about his head) until 

the point be backwards beneath in such sort, that the circle 

or compass direct him to the high ward, in the which he may 

presently resolve himself and return either to strike again, or 

else defend himself on either side, so handling his weapon, 

as shall in that case be most for his advantage.



THE DEFENSES OF THE TWO HAND SWORD.



The defenses of the two hand sword require a stout heart, 

for that the sustaining of such great blows, by reason 

whereof, a man considers not the advantage of time, being 

the most principal thing of all, causes him to fly or retire 

back holding for a certainty that every blow given therewith, 

is not possible to be warded. Therefore when he deals 

against an enemy, who uses likewise the two hand sword, 

he shall oppose himself in the low ward: And when a false 

thrust comes, if it come so far forwards that it may join 

home, he ought first to beat it off, and then to force a thrust 

at the enemy's face, or deliver an edgeblow downwards at 

the arms but not lifting up the sword in a compass. But for 

that these falsed thrusts for the most part are far off, and 

come not to the body, being used only to fear the enemy, 

and cause him to retire, that thereby one may have the more 

time to deliver an edgeblow with the increase of a pace 

(which pace causes the blow to go with greater violence:) 

and farther may discern and judge, by nearness of the 

enemy, whether the blow will hit home yea or no, for it is 

easily known how much the arms may be stretched forth: 

Therefore when this false thrust does not join or hit home, 

he ought not to endeavor to beat it off, but to expect when 

his enemy delivers his edgeblow, and then to increase a 

pace, and strike him with a thrust.



But if it happen him to deal against a two hand sword, with 

a single sword or dagger, assuring himself that the two hand 

sword cannot but strike but with a thrust or an edgeblow, 

for the defense of the thrust he may beat it off and retire 

himself, but if it be an edgeblow, then, as soon as the two 

hand sword is lifted up, in the same time he must increase 

forwards and deliver a thrust, or else if he have no time to 

strike he must encounter and bear the blow in the first part 

of the sword, which is near the hilts, taking hold thereof 

with one hand, and striking him with the other. And this he 

may perform, if he be nimble and active, because the two 

hand sword carries but small force in that place.



OF THE PARTISAN, BILL, JAVELIN

AND HALBERD.



Deceits or falses, are more manifest and evident in these, 

then in short weapons which are handled only with one hand 

because both the arms are moved more slowly then one 

alone. And the reason thereof is, that considering they are 

more long, they therefore frame in their motions a greater 

compass: and this is perceived more in edgeblows then in 

thrusts. Therefore the best false that may be practiced in the 

handling of these weapons, is the false of the thrust, and that 

the edgeblow ought never or seldom to be used, except 

great necessity constrain, as shalbe declared. Wherefore in 

these weapons, I will frame four wards, three of them with 

the point forwards, of which three, the first is, the point of 

the sword being borne low, and the hind arm being lifted up.



The second is, the point high, the right arm being behind 

and borne at low. The third, the point equal and the arms 

equal: And in every one of these a man must false without, 

and drive it home within, or false within and deliver it 

without, or false aloft and strike beneath, and so 

contrariwise. But as he falses within or without, he ought to 

remember this note, which is, he must always to the intent 

he may go the better covered and warded, compass the 

hindfoot to that part, to the which the weapon shalbe 

directed to strike home after a false.



The fourth ward which is much used, and especially with the 

bill, shalbe to bear the weapon with the blunt end or heel 

forwards, the edge being lifted up on high. And this is much 

used, to the intent to expect the enemy's blows, and that 

thereby a man may be better able to ward them, either with 

the heel or middle of the staff, and then to enter and strike 

delivering an edgeblow with the increase of a pace, the 

which manner of striking is most ready and nimble. The 

false which may be used in this ward, is when he has warded 

the enemy's blow with the heel of his weapon, and then 

would increase forwards to deliver an edgeblow, if the 

enemy shall lift up or advance his weapon to defend himself 

from the said blow, then he shall give over to deliver that 

blow, by retiring his weapon, and give a thrust underneath, 

with the increase of a pace.



And this kind of blow is very likely to work his effect

without danger, if he aptly and nimbly used.



OF THE PIKE.



There may be used some deceit also in the Pike, although it 

be a weapon void of any crooked forks, and is much more 

apt to show great valor then deceit. And for as much as it 

has no other then a point to offend, and length to defend, 

for that cause there may be used no other deceit therewith, 

then with the point: and considering true art, is not the mark 

that is shot at in this place: I say, it may be borne after 

diverse fashions, as shalbe most for a man's advantage, as 

either at the end, either in the middle, either more 

backwards, either more forwards, as shall be thought most 

commodious to the bearer. Likewise, one may frame three 

wards therewith, to wit, the first straight, with the arms 

equal: the second with the point low, the third, the point 

high, falsing in each of them a thrust, either within, either 

without, ether high, either low, and then immediately 

forcing it on resolutely, but contrary to the false, and 

carrying always the hind foot towards that side, to the 

which the Pike is directed to strike. In handling of the pike, 

a man must always diligently consider, so to work that the 

hind hand be that which may rule, drive on, draw back and 

govern the Pike, and that the fore hand serve to no other 

purpose then to help to sustain it.



THE DEFENSES OF THE DECEITS OF THE 

WEAPONS OF THE STAFF.



I have not as yet laid down the defense of the Bill, and the 

rest, because they are all one with this of the Pike. And I 

mind to handle them briefly all together, considering that in 

these a man may not either render false for false, or take 

holdfast of the weapon. And although it might be done, I 

commend it not, because it is a very difficult matter to 

extort a weapon that is held fast with both hands. That 

therefore which one may do to defend himself, is to have 

recourse unto true Art, remembering so to ward the enemy 

s if it were a true blow, and to strike before the enemy 

spend another time, in delivering his resolute thrust, And to 

take heed in delivery of his blows, that he be nimble and 

carry his body and arms so aptly and orderly applied, that 

the weapon wherewith he strikes may cover it wholly. And 

here I make an end of deceit, in practicing of the which, 

there is this consideration to be had, so, always to false, that 

if the enemy provide not to ward, it may reach and hit 

home, because being delivered in such order, it loses but 

little time.



THE END OF THE FALSE ART.





HOW A MAN BY PRIVATE PRACTICE MAY

OBTAIN STRENGTH OF BODY THEREBY



If nature had bestowed strength upon men (as many believe) 

in such sort as she has given sight, hearing and other senses, 

which are such in us, that they may not by our endeavor 

either be increased, or diminished, it should be no less 

superfluous, than ridiculous to teach how strength should be 

obtained, than it were if one should say, he would instruct a 

man how to hear or see better than he does already by 

nature. Neither albeit he that becomes a Painter or a 

Musician sees the proportions much better than he did 

before, or by hearing learns the harmony and conformity of 

voices which he knew not, ought it therefore be said, that he 

sees or hears more than he did? For that proceeds not of 

better hearing or seeing, but of seeing and hearing with 

more reason. But in strength it does not so come to pass: 

For it is manifestly seen, that a man of ripe age and strength, 

cannot lift up a weight today which he cannot do on the 

morrow, or some other time. But contrary, if a man prove 

with the self same sight on the morrow or some other time 

to see a thing which yesterday he saw not in the same 

distance, he shall but trouble himself in vain, and be in 

danger rather to see less than more, as it commonly happen 

to students and other such, who do much exercise their 

sight. Therefore there is no doubt at all but that a mans 

strength may be increased by reasonable exercise, And so 

likewise by too much rest it may be diminished: the which if 

it were not manifest, yet it might be proved by infinite 

examples. You shall see Gentlemen, Knights and others, to 

bee most strong and nimble in running or leaping, or in 

vaulting, or in turning on Horseback, and yet are not able by 

a great deal to bear so great a burden as a Country man or 

Porter: But in contrary in running and leaping, the Porter 

and Country man are most slow and heavy, neither know 

how to vault upon their horse without a ladder. And this 

proceeds of no other cause, than for that every man is not 

exercised in that which is most esteemed: So that if in the 

managing of these weapons, a man would get strength, it 

shallbe convenient for him to exercise himself in such sort as 

shallbe declared.



For the obtaining of this strength and activity, three things 

ought to be considered, to wit, the arms, the feet and the 

legs, in each of which it is requisite that every one be greatly 

exercised, considering that to know well how to manage the 

arms, and yet to be ignorant in the motion of the feet, 

wanting skill how to go forwards and retire backwards, 

causes men oftentimes to overthrow themselves.



And on the other side, when one is exercised in the 

governing of his feet, but is ignorant in the timely motion of 

his arms, it falls out that he goes forwards in time, but yet 

wanting skill how to move his arms, he does not only not 

offend the enemy, but also many times remains hurt and 

offended himself. The body also by great reason ought to be 

borne and sustained upon his foundation. For when it bows 

either too much backwards or forwards, either on the one or 

the other side, straight way the government of the arms and 

legs are frustrated and the body, will or nil, remains 

stricken. Therefore I will declare the manner first how to 

exercise the Arms, secondly the Feet, thirdly the Body, Feet 

and Arms, jointly:



OF THE EXERCISE AND STRENGTH

OF THE ARMS.



Let a man be never so strong and lusty, yet he shall deliver a 

blow more slow and with less force than another shall who 

is less strong, but more exercised: and without doubt he 

shall so weary his arms, hands and body, that he cannot long 

endure to labor in any such business. And there has been 

many, who by reason of such sudden weariness, have 

suddenly despaired of themselves, giving over the exercise 

of the weapon, as not appertaining unto them. Wherein they 

deceive themselves, for such weariness is vanquished by 

exercise, by means whereof it is not long, but that the body 

feet and arms are so strengthened, that heavy things seem 

light, and that they are able to handle very nimbly any kind 

of weapon, and in brief overcome all kind of difficulty and 

hardness. Therefore when one would exercise his arms, to 

the intent to get strength, he must endeavor continually to 

overcome weariness, resolving himself in his judgment, that 

pains is not caused, through debility of nature, but rather 

hangs about him, because he has not accustomed to exercise 

his members thereunto.



There are two things to be considered in this exercise, to wit 

the hand that moves, and the thing that is moved, which two 

things being orderly laid down, I hope I shall obtain as much 

as I desire. As touching the hand and the treatise of the true 

Art, in three parts, that is to say, into the wrist, the elbow, 

and the shoulder, In every of the which it is requisite, that it 

move most swiftly and strongly, regarding always in his 

motion the quality of the weapon that is borne in the hand, 

the which may be infinite, and therefore I will leave them 

and speak only of the single sword, because it bears a 

certain proportion and agreement unto all the rest.



The sword as each man knows, strikes either with the point 

or with the edge. To strike edgewise, it is required that a 

man accustom himself to strike edgewise as well right as 

reversed with some cudgel or other thing apt for the 

purpose, First practicing to fetch the compass of the 

shoulder, which is the strongest, and yet the slowest 

edgeblow that may be given: Next and presently after, the 

compass of the elbow, then that of the wrist, which is more 

prest and ready then any of the rest. After certain days that 

he has exercised these three kinds of compassing edgeblows 

one after another as swiftly as he may possible And when he 

feels in himself that he has as it were unloosed all those 

knittings or joints of the arm, and can strike and deliver 

strongly from two of these joints, to wit the Elbow and the 

Wrist, he shall then let the Shoulder joint stand, and 

accustom to strike strongly and swiftly with those two of 

the El bow and the Wrist, yet at the length and in the end of 

all shall only in a manner practice that of the Wrist, when he 

perceives his hand and wrist to be well strengthened, 

delivering this blow of the Wrist, twice or thrice, sometimes 

right, sometimes reversed, once right, and once reversed, 

two reverses and one right, and likewise, two right and one 

reversed, to the end that the handle take not accustom to 

deliver a right blow immediately after a reverse. For 

sometimes it is commodious, and does much advantage a 

man to deliver two right, and two reversed, or else after two 

right, one reversed: and these blows, ought to be exercised, 

as well with one hand as with the other, standing steadfast 

in one reasonable pace, practicing them now, aloft, now 

beneath, now in the middle. As touching the weight or heft, 

which is borne in the hand, be it sword or other weapon, I 

commend not their opinion any way, who will for the 

strengthening of a man's arm that he handle first a heavy 

weapon, because being first used to them, afterwards, 

ordinary weapons will seem the lighter unto him, but I think 

rather the contrary, to wit, that first to the end, he does not 

over burden and choke his strength, he handle a very light 

sword, and such a one, that he may most nimbly move. For 

the end of this art is not to lift up or bear great burdens, but 

to move swiftly. And there is no doubt but he vanquishes 

which is most nimble, and this nimbleness is not obtained by 

handling of great hefts or weights, but by often moving.



But yet after he has sometime travailed with a light weapon, 

then it is necessary according as he feels himself to increase 

in strength of arm, that he take another in hand, that is 

something heavier, and such a one as will put him to a little 

more pain, but yet not so much, that his swiftness in motion 

be hindered thereby. And as his strength increases, to 

increase likewise the weight by little and little. So it will not 

be long, but that he shalbe able to manage very nimbly any 

heavy sword. The blow of the point or thrust, cannot be 

handled without the consideration of the feet and body, 

because the strong delivering of a thrust, consists in the apt 

and timely motion of the arms feet and body: For the 

exercise of which it is necessary that he know how to place 

them in every of the three wards, to the end, that from the 

ward he may deliver strongly a thrust in as little time as 

possible. And therefore he shall take heed that in the low 

ward, he make a reasonable pace, bearing his hand without 

his knee, forcing one the thrust nimbly, and retiring his arm 

backward, and somewhat increasing his forefoot more 

forwards, to the end, the thrust may reach the farther: But if 

he chance to increase the forefoot a little too much, so that 

the breadth thereof be painful unto him, than for the 

avoiding of inconveniences, he shall draw his hind foot so 

much after, as he did before increase the forefoot. And this 

thrust must be oftentimes jerked or sprung forth, to the end 

to lengthen the arm, accustoming to drive it on without 

retiring of itself, that by that means it may the more readily 

settle in the broad ward, For that is framed (as it is well 

known) with the arm and foot widened outwards, but not 

lengthened towards the enemy. And in thrusting let him see, 

that he deliver them as straight as he can possibly, to the 

end, they may reach out the longer.



At what time one would deliver a thrust, it is requisite that 

he move the body and feet behind, so much in a compass, 

that both the shoulders, arm, and feet, be under one self 

same straight line. Thus exercising himself he shall deliver a 

very great and strong thrust. And this manner of thrusting 

ought oftentimes to be practiced, accustoming the body and 

feet (as before) to move in a compass: for this motion is that 

which instructs one, how he shall void his body. The thrust 

of the high ward is hardest of all other, not of itself, but 

because it seems that the high ward (especially with the 

right foot before) is very painful. And because there are few 

who have the skill to place themselves as they ought to 

deliver the thrust in as little time as is possible. The first care 

therefore in this so to place himself, that he stand steadily. 

And the site thereof is in this manner, to wit: To stand with 

the arm aloft, and as right over the body as is possible, to 

the end he may force on the thrust without drawing back of 

the arm or loosing of time. And whilst the arm is borne 

straight on high (to the end it may be borne the more 

straight, and with less pains) the feet also would stand close 

and united together, and that because, this ward is rather to 

strike than to defend, and therefore it is necessary that it 

have his increase prepared: so that when the thrust is 

discharged, he ought therewithall to increase the forefoot so 

much that it make a reasonable pace, and then to let fall the 

hand down to the low ward, from the which if he would 

depart again, and offend to the high ward, he must also 

retire his forefoot, near unto the hind foot, or else the hind 

foot to the forefoot, And in this manner he shall practice to 

deliver his thrust oftentimes always placing himself in this 

high ward with his feet united, discharging the thrust with 

the increase of the fore foot. But when it seems tedious and 

painful to frame this ward, then he must use, for the 

lengthening of his arm, to fasten his hand and take holdfast 

on some nook or staff, that stands out in a wall, as high as 

he may lift up his arm, turning his hand as if he held a 

sword, for this shall help very much to strengthen his arm, 

and make his body apt to stand at this ward. Now when he 

has applied this exercise, for a reasonable time, so that he 

may perceive by himself that he is nimble and active in 

delivering these blows and thrusts simply by themselves, 

then he shall practice to compound them, that is to say, after 

a thrust to deliver a right blow from the wrist, then a 

reverse, and after that another thrust, always remembering 

when he delivers a blow, from the wrist, after a thrust to 

compass his hind foot, to the end, the blow may be the 

longer: And when, after his right blow, he would discharge 

a reverse, he must increase a slope pace, that presently after 

it, he may by the increase of a straight pace, force on a 

strong thrust underneath. And so to exercise himself to 

deliver many of those orderly blows together, but yet always 

with the true motion of the feet and body, and with great 

nimbleness, and in as short time as possible, taking always 

for a most sure and certain rule, that he move the arms and 

feet, keeping his body firm and steadfast, so that it go not 

beastly forward, (and especially the head being a member of 

so great importance) but to keep always his body bowed 

rather backward than forward, neither to turn it but only in 

a compass to void blows and thrusts.



Moreover, it shall not be amiss, after he has learned to 

strike, (to the end to strengthen his arms) if he cause 

another to force at him, either with a cudgel, or some other 

heavy thing, both edgeblows and thrusts, and that he 

encounter and sustain them with a sword, and ward thrusts 

by avoiding his body, and by increasing forwards. And 

likewise under edgeblows, either strike before they light, or 

else encounter them on their first parts, with the increase of 

a pace, that thereby he may be the more ready to deliver a 

thrust, and more easily sustain the blow. Farther, when he 

shall perceive, that he has conveniently qualified and 

strengthened this instrument of his body, it shall remain, that 

he only have recourse in his mind to the five advertisements, 

by the which a man obtains judgment. And that next, he 

order and govern his motions according to the learning and 

meaning of those rules. And afterwards take advise of 

himself how to strike and defend, knowing the advantage in 

every particular blow. And there is not doubt at all, but by 

this order he shall attain to that perfection in this Art which 

he desires.





FINIS