Giacomo di Grassi

1594

MDLXX

1594

HAving a restless desire in the dailie exercises of Pen to present some acceptable peece of work to your L. and finding no one thine so fit for my purpose and your honorable disposition, as the knowledge of Armes and Weapons, which defends life, countrie, & honour, I presumed to preferre a booke to the print (translated out of the Italyan language) of a gentlemans doing that is not so gredie of glory as many glorious writers that eagerly would snatch Fame out of other mens mouthes, by a little labour of their own, But rather keeps his name unknowen to the world (under a shamefast clowd of prayes where it maketh smallest bragg: for the goodnes of the mind seekes no glorious gwerdon, but hopes to reap the reward of well doing among the rypest of judgement & worthiest of sound consideration, like unto a man that giveth his goods unto the poore, and maketh his treasurehouse in heaven, And further to be noted, who can tarrie til the feed sowen in the earth be almost rotten or dead, shal be sure in a bountiful harvest to reap a goodly crop of corne And better it is to abyde a happie season to see how things will prove, than soddainly to seeke profite where slowlye comes commoditie or any benefit wil rise. Some say, that good writers doe purchase small praise till they be dead, (Hard is that opinion.) and then their Fame shal flowrish & bring foorth the fruite that long lay hid in the earth.

Thomas Churchyard.

AMong all the Prayers, wherein through the whole course of my life, I have asked any great thing at Gods hands, I have always most earnestly beseeched, that (although at this present I am verse poore and of base Fortune) he would notwithstanding give me grace to be thankefull, and mindfull of the good turnes which I have received. For among all the disgraces which a man may incurre in this world, there is none in mine opinion which causeth him to become more odious, or a more enimic to mortall men (yea, unto God himselfe) than ingratitude. Wherefore being in Treuiso, by your honours courteously intreated, and of all honourably used, although I practised litle or nought at all to teach you how to handle weapons, for the which purpose I was hyred with an honourable stipend, yet to shewe my selfe in some sort thankefull, I have determined to bestowe the way how to handle all sortes of weapons with the advantage and safetie. The which my worke, because it shall finde your noble hearts full of valure, will bring foorth such fruite, being but once attentively read over, as that in your said honors will be seene in actes and deedes, which in other men scarsely is comprehended by imagination. And I, who have beene and am most fervently affected to serve your Ls. for asmuch as it is not graunted unto me, (in respect of your divers affaires) to applie the same, and take some paines in teaching as I alwaies desired, have yet by this other waie, left all that imprinted in your noble mindes, which in this honourable exercise may bring a valiant man unto perfection.

Giacomo di Grassi of Modena

Fare-well.

give many times the onset and enterprise, but yet, never perform it in act.

Although I have very much in a manner in all quarters of Italy, seen most excellent professors of this Art, to teach in their Schools, and practice privately in the Lists to train up their Scholars. Yet I do not remember that I ever saw any man so thoroughly endowed with this first part, to wit, Judgment, that behalf required.

PER molto che io quali in tutte le parti d'Italia habbia ueduto professori eccelentisimi di quest'arte,& insegnar nelle lor schuo le & exercitar secretamente per condur in stecato: non so di hauer ne ueduto alcuno,ìlgual habbia posseduta questa parte del giuditio come si conuiene puo eßer che l habbino

ALthough I have verye much in a manner in all quarters of Italie, seene most excellent professors of this Art, to teach in their Schols, and practise privately in the Listes to traine up their Schollers. Yet I doo not remember that ever I saw anie man so throughly indewed with this first part, to wit, Judgement, as is in that behalfe required.

Before I come to a more particular declaration of this Art, it is requisite I use some general division. Wherefore it is to be understood, that as in all other arts, so likewise in this (men forsaking the true science thereof, in hope peradventure to overcome rather by deceit than true manhood) have found a new manner of skirmishing full of falses and slips. The which because it somewhat and sometimes prevails against those who are either fearful or ignorant of their grounds and principals, I am constrained to divide this Art into two Arts or Sciences, calling the one the True, the other, the False art: But withal giving every man to understand, that falsehood has no advantage against true Art, but rather is most hurtful and deadly to him that uses.

PRIMA che si uenga a piu particolare dichiaratione di questa arte , fà dibisogno diuiderla ; onde é da' sapere che si come quasi in tutte l'altre arti, in questa ancora, gli huomini, lasciando la uera scienza sperando forse piu con la bugia , che con il nero uittoriosi , hanno trouato un nuouo modo di schermir pieno di finte & di inganni ilquale essendo di qualche utilità contra quelli che o sono timidi , o sono ignoranti de i principÿ , pero fino sforzato a diuidere quest'arte in due. , chiamando l'una , uera , & laltra, inganneuole ; auertendo però ciascuno , l'inganno contra la uera arte non esser di profitto alcuno anzi,di grandissimo danno & mortale a chi l'usa;

BEfore I come to a more perticuler declaration of this Art, it is requisite I use some generall division. Wherefore it is to be understood, that as in all other arts, so likewise in this (men forsaking the true science thereof, in hope peradventure to overcome rather by disceit then true manhood) have found out a new maner of skirmishing ful of falses and slips. The which because it somewhat and some times prevaleth against those who are either fearfull or ignorant of their groundes and principals, I am constrayned to divide this Art into two Arts of Sciences, callinge thone the True, the other, the False art: But withall giving everie man to understand, that falsehood hath no advauntage against true Art, but rather is most hurtfull and deadlie to him that useth it.

Albeit Weapons aswell offensive as defensive be infinite, because all that whatsoever a man may handle to offend another or defend himself, either by flinging or keeping fast in his hand may in my opinion be termed Weapon. Yet notwithstanding, because, as I have before said, they be innumerable so that if I should particularly handle every one, besides the great toil and travail I should sustain, it would also doubtless be unprofitable, because the principals and grounds which are laid down in this Art, serve only for such weapons as are commonly practiced, or for such as happily men will use: and so leaving all those which at this present make not for my purpose, I affirm, that amongst all the weapons used in these days, there is none more honorable, more usual or more safe than the sword.

ANCORA che le arme si da offesa come da diffesa siano quasi infinite,percioche tutto quello che puo l'huomo adoprar per offender altri o per difender se o lanciando, o tenendo in mano mi pare che si possa adimandar arme,nulla dimeno perche quelle com'ho detto sono inumerabili , di modo che a uoler particolarmente di tutte trattar, oltra che ella sarebbe una fatica grandissima , la sarrebbe ancho senza dubio inutile , percioche i principi 9 auertimenti che si danno in questa : seruono per tutte le arme usate & che, forse s'useranno, lasciando dunque tutte quel le che per bora non fanno à nostro proposito dico non esser tra tutte l'armi che hogidi s'usano,la piu honorata,la piu frequentata,ne la più semplice della spada ,

Albeit Weapons aswel offensive as defensive be infinite, because all that whatsoever a man may handle to offend an other or defend hemselfe, either by flinging or kepinge fast in his hand may in my opinion be tearmed Weapon. Yet notwithstading, because, as I have before said, they be innumerable so that if I shold perticularly handle everie one, besides the great toile and travaile I should sustaine, it would also doubtles be unprofitable, because the principels and grounds which are laid downe in this Art, serve only for such weapons as are commonlye practised, or for such as happely men will use: and so leaving al those which at this present make not for my purpose, I affirme, that amongst al the wepons used in these daies, there is none more honorable, more usual or more safe then the sword.

For as much as the Effects which proceed from the length of the sword, are not in every part thereof equal or of like force: It stands with reason besides the declaration of the cause, that I find out also the property and name of each part, to the end every man may understand, which are the parts of the length wherewith he ought to strike, and which the parts, wherewith he must defend.

NON eßendo gli effetti della lunghezza della spada in ogni par te eguali, é ragioneuol cosa oltra il farne conoscer la causa, ritrouar di ciascuno la sua proprietà & nome accio poßamente ciascuno sapere quali sian le parti con che egli ha da ferire & con quali debba schifare.

FOR asmuch as the Effects which procede from the legth of the sword, are not in everie part thereof equall or of like force: It stands with reson besides the declaration of the cause, that I find out also the propertie and name of ech part, to the end everie man may understand, which are the parts of the length wherewith he ought to strike, and which the parts, wherewith he must defend.

(Transcribed by Michael Chidester)

Wards in weapons are such sites, positions or placings which withstand the enemy's blows, and are as a shield or safeguard against them. For he who has no skill to carry his body and bear these weapons orderly, which either cover, or may easily may cover the whole body, cannot be said to stand in ward, insomuch that a man ought to use great diligence in the apt carrying of his body and weapons, For many times he ought to settle and repose himself in his ward, therein deliberating upon some new devise, or expecting when his enemy will minister occasion to enter upon him.

LE GVARDIE nell'arme sono siti ò positioni tali che uietamo le offese inimiche ,& sono come scudo & muraglia ; però quello che non si saprà in modo raccoglier con la uita & tenir in modo l'armi, che o lo cuoprano o facilmente poßino coprir tutta la uita non si pótrà dir che egli sia in guardia , grandißima diligenza dunque si deue porre nell'accomodar la uita & l'armi , che si sia sicuro , douendosi in essa alle uolte ripossare per pigliar nuouo partito, o per espettar che l'inimico appresenti occasione d'entrare;

WArds in weapons are such sites, positions or placings which withstand the enemies blowes, and are as a shield or safegarde against them. For he who hath no skill to carrie his bodie and beare these weapons order lie, which either cover, or easely maie cover the whole bodie, cannot be saide to stand in warde, insomuch that a man ought to use great diligence in the apt carriyng if his bodie and weapons, For manie times he ought to settle and repose himself in his ward, therein deliberating upon some new devise, or expecting when his enemie wil minister occasion to enter upon him.

This high ward, which also might be called the first, being the very same which every man frames at the drawing of the sword out of the sheath, may so far forth, and insomuch be termed a ward, in how much, by turning the point of the sword downward, it wards the whole person, and for that, by gathering in of the hindfoot, and increasing forwards with the right foot, a man may discharge a strong thrust above hand at his enemy.

QUESTA guardia alta che parimente si potrebbe dimandar prima per esser quella che forma l'huomo neltrar la spada del fodro, in tanto si puo dimandar guardia, in quanto che co'l , uolger la punta della spada in giu aiffende tutta la persona; & ancho per che raccogliendo il piede di die tro si puo con il crescere il destro scaricar una grand imbroccata all'inimico;

THis high warde, which also might be called the first, beeinge the very same which every man frameth at the drawing of the sword out of the sheath, may so farre foorth, and in somuch be termed a warde, in how much, by turning the poynt of the sworde downewarde, it wardeth the whole person, and for that, by gathering in of the hinderfoote, & incresing forwardes with the right foote, a man may discharge a strong thurst above hande at his enemie.

This second ward from the effect shall be called the broad or wide ward, because the Arm widening and stretching itself directly as much as possible from the right side, bears the sword so far off from the body, that it seems to give great scope to the enemy to enter, albeit in truth it be nothing so. For although the hand and the handle of the sword, be both far from the body, and quite out of the straight line, yet the point of the sword, from which principally proceeds the offense, is not without the said line: For it is borne so bending toward the left side that it respects directly to strike the enemy, and being borne in that sort, it may very well both strike and defend. And when the point of the sword is borne out of the straight line, as the hand and handle is, then a man is in danger to bee hurt easily by the enemy, the which happens not when the point is bending, for in such order, it is as a bar and defense to the whole body.

QUESTA seconda da l'essetto s'adimanderà guardia largha per che allarghando il braccio dalla ritta per quanto si puo dirittamente distendere , tiene la spada cosi lontana dalla uita, che par che allarghi la strada allinimico di entrare , anchora che cosi non sia ; percio che auenga che la mano & il manico della spada siano & lontani dalla uieta & fuora della linea retta , non percio ui e la punta ; dalla quale nasce principalmente l'offesa; per che ella si tiene tanto piegata uerfo la parte sinistra che la uadi a ferir l'inimico, per che in tal modo puo offendere & difendere; & quando si come si tiene la mano & il manico, si tenisse ancho la punta fuor della linea , retta; si andarebbe a rischio d'esser sicuramente offesi, ilche non auiene piegata, per che in tal modo ella e come sbarra a tutta la uita.

THis second warde from the effecte shall be called the broad or wide warde, because the Arme widning and stretching it selfe directlie as much as is possible from the right side, beareth the sword so farre off from the bodie, that it seemeth to give great scope to the enimie to enter, albeit in truth it be nothing so. For although the hand & the handle of the sworde, be both farr from the bodie, and quite out of the streight line, yet the poynt of the sworde, from which principallie procedeth the offence, is not without the saide lyne: For it is borne so bending towarde the left side that it respecteth directlie to strike the enimie, and being borne in that sorte, it may verie well both strike and defend. And when the poynt of the sword is borne out of the streight lyne, as the hand and handle is, then a man is in daunger to bee hurte easelie by the enimie, the which happeneth not when the poynt is bending, for in such order, it is as a barre and defence to the whole bodie.

This also from the effect is called the base ward or lock: Neither is this name improperly given by the Professors of this Art, for that it is more strong, sure and commodious then any other ward, and in the which a man may more easily strike, ward and stand therein with less pain. This ward is framed in the Schools after diverse fashions, either bearing the hand low before the knee, either very much stretched forwards, either between both the knees. All which fashions, (if we regard natural reason, and the motions used therein) are to small purpose: for, besides that they are all violent, and for a small time to be endured, they are also such, in the which a man may not strike but in two times, or at least in one, and then very weakly. Wherefore, casting all these aside, I will frame such a ward, as shall be applied, to time, to nature, and to safety: And it is, when one bears his arm directly downwards near his knee (but yet without it) and his sword with his point somewhat raised, and bearing towards the left side, to the end, it may arm and defend that part also, in such sort, that (being borne without violence) he may continue long. And if he would strike, he may in one time, forcibly deliver a great thrust. But this he cannot do, if he bear his sword directly before him, for then he must either draw back his arm when he would strike, or else strike in one time, but very weakly.

QUESTA ancora da l'effetto s'adimanda bassa, ne forse li disconviene il nome datoli da: tutti li professori di quest'arte, essendo questa talmente forte & sicura & commoda che niun'altra é nella quale l'huomo polsi piu facilmente offendere & diffendere , & nella quale stia con minor fatica, questa si forma in diuersi modi per le scuole; cioè o tenendo la mano bassa dinanti al ginocchio, ouero molto allungata inanti, ouero tra l'uno & l'altro ginocchio, i quali tutti modi se guardiamo la ragione della natura & del moto, son poco conueneuoli, percio che oltra che sono tutti uiolenti, onde poco in essi sì può durare sono anco tali che non si può ferire se non in duo tempi, ouero in uno con poca forza, pero lasciando tutti quelli ne for meremo uno ilquale sarà accomodato al tempo, alla Natura, & alla sicurezza; ilquale sarà a tenire il braccio dirritto in giu appresso il genochio ma di fuora uia ,& la spada alquanto con la punta leuata & uerso la parte sinistra, affine che armi & diffenda anco quella in tal modo per che il braccio si tiene fenza uiolenza , si puo molto durare & .uolendo ferire, si puo in un sol tempo spinger una gran punta, ilche non aquiene tenendo il braccio inanti, nel qual caso, ouero hai da ritirar il braccio per ferir, ouero ferir in un tempo debolißimamente.

THis is also from the effect is called the base ward or lock: Neither is this name improperlie given by the Professors of this Art, for that it is more strong, sure and commodious then anie other ward, and in the which a man may more easelie strik, ward & stand therein with lesse paine. This ward is framed in the Schools after dyvers fashions, either bearing the hand low before the knee, either verie much stretched forwardes, either betweene both the knees. All which fashions, (if we regard naturall reason, and the motions used therein) are to small purpose: for, besides that they are all violent, and for a small time to be endured, they are also such, in the which a man may not strike but in two tymes, or at the least in one, and then verie weakly. Wherefore, casting all these aside, I will frame such a warde, as shalbe applyed, to time, to nature, and to safetie: And it is, when one beareth his arme directly downwardes neere his knee ( but yet without it) and his sworde with the point somewhat raysed, and bearing towards the left side, to the end, it may arme and defend that part also, in such sort, that (being borne without violence) he may continue long. And if he would strike, he may in one time, forcibly deliver a great thrust. But this he cannot do, if he beare his sword directly befor him, for then he must either draw backe his arme when he would strike, or els strike in one time, but verie weakly.

Without all doubt, the thrust is to be preferred before the edgeblow, aswell because it strikes in less time, as also for that in the said time, it does more hurt. For which consideration, the Romans (who were victorious in all enterprises) did accustom their soldiers of the Legions to thrust only: Alleging for their reason, that the blows of the edge, though they were great, yet they are very few that are deadly, and that thrusts, though little and weak, when they enter but iii fingers into the body, are wont to kill. Therefore I lay down this for a firm and certain rule, that the thrust does many times more readily strike, and give the greater blow against the enemy. And to the end, a man may thrust it out with the greatest force at the most advantage, and uttermost length that may be, he must always remember to carry his left foot compassing behind him in such sort, that the hindfoot so compassing may always be in the straight line of the hand and sword, as a Diameter in the middest of a Circle. And in finishing of a blow, to draw his hindfoot a half pace forwards, and so by that means the blow is longer and stronger, and shoulder and side are only opposite to the enemy, and so far from him, that they may not be struck: and it is not possible for a man to frame a longer blow than this.

SENZA dubio alcuno la punta si deue preporre al taglio, si perche ferisce in minor tempo come anco per che ferendo in minor tempo fa maggior danno. per la qual cosa i Romani che furon in tutte le imprese Vittoriosi. assuefaceuano i loro soldati delle legioni a ferir di punta solamente; allegando in lor ragione che pochi sono i colpi di taglio che uccidano ancor che grandi & le punte benche picciole qua quando entrano in un corpo tre dita , il piu delle uolte sogliono uccidere. Si haurà dunque per ferma & immutabile regola il ferir di punta qual uolta si truoua con essa uerso l'inimico per ferir piu presto & far maggior colpo. Et in questo ferir di punta per spingerla con maggior furia che si possa & con maggior auantaggio et piu lunga. fi deue sempre auertir di girar il piede sinistro uerso la parte di dietro di modo che sempre il piede di dietro uadi girando per esser sempre nella linea retta della mano & della spada come il diametro d'un cerchio, per il girare del cerchio . Et nel finir il colpo ritirar il piede di dietro mezo passo innanti, a questo modo il colpo uien piu lungo & piu forte, & si oppone all'inimico non la spalla & il fianco & in modo da esso luntani che non li può ferire perche non e' poßibil far piu lnnga botta dì questa.

WIthout all doubt, the thrust is to be preferred before the edge blowe, aswell because it striketh in less time, as also for that in the saide time, it doth more hurt. For which consideratio, the Romanes (who were victorious in all enterprises) did accustome their souldiers of the Legions to thrust onely: Alleaging for their reason, that the blowes of the edge, though they were great, yet they are verie fewe that are deadly, and that thrustes, though litle & weake, when they enter but iii. fingers into the bodie, are wont to kill. Therefore I laye down this for a firme and certaine rule, that the thrust doth many times more readily strike, and give the greater blowe against the enimie. And to the end, a man may thrust it out with the greatest force at the most advantage, and uttermost length that may be, he must alwaies remember to carrie his left foote compassing behind him in such sort, that the hinderfoot so compassing may alwaies be in the straight lyne of the hand and sworde, as a Diameter in the middest of a Circle. And in finishing of the blowe, to drawe his hinder-foote a halfe pace forwardes, and so by that meanes the blow is longer & stronger, and the shoulder and side are onely opposite to the enimie, and so farre off from him, that they may not be strooken: and it is not possible for a man to frame a longer blowe than this.

For no other cause, the edge is preferred before the point, then for the time: the shortness whereof, is so to be esteemed above all other things in this Art, that (omitting the point and edge) it ought to be given for the best and chief counsel, that the same to be the better blow, in which a man spends least time. And therefore when this happens and may be done with the edge, then the edge is to be preferred before the point: the which as occasion serves shall be further declared.

PER niun' altra causa il taglio si prepone alla punta se non per il tempo; 1a breuità del quale talmente ad ogn'altra cosa in quest' arte si deue anteporre che lasciando & punta & taglio da parte si deue dar per ottimo & principal consiglio che quello si tenghi per miglior colpo nel quale si consuma manco tempo, però quando questo auiene nel taglio si deune preporre il taglio alla punta, la qual cosa quando accada si dirà.

FOr no other cuase, the edge is preferred before the poynt, then for the time: the shortnes whereof, is so to be esteemed above all other things in this Arte, that (omitting the point and edge) it ought to be given for the best and chiefe counsell, that same to be the better blowe, in which a man spendeth least time. And therfore when this happeneth and may be done with the edge, then the edg is to be preferred before the point: the which as occasion serveth shalbe further declared.

The means of defending a blow given either with the edge or point of the sword, are three. one is when the weapon is opposed to the blow, in such sort that the weapon which comes striking either at the head or at the body, cannot hit home to the place whereunto it is directed, but hindered by some thing or other then set against it, be it sword, dagger, target, bill, javelin, or any thing else, which at that instant a man has in his hand. For it chances not always to wear or carry weapons of purpose, or ordained to that extent. framed to that end: for which cause, it may well be said, that the soldier differs from other men, not because he is more skillful in handling the sword or javelin, but for that he is expert in every occasion to know the best advantage and with judgment both to defend himself with any thing whatsoever, and therewithal safely to offend the enemy: In which and no other thing consists true skirmishing. He that persuades himself that he can learn this Art by the exercise of a few particular strokes of the point and edge is utterly deceived:

MODI di diffender l'ofesa di taglio & di punta sono tre, l'uno, opponendo l'arme a l'offesa, dimodo che l'arma che uenirà per ferir la testa ò la uita non poßi giungere al loco oue crainuiata, & si truoui impedita da alcuna' cosa che per all'hora se gli hauerà oppòsta , o sia spada, pugnale,rotella ,ronca, spiedo, o altro che si ritroua in quel caso hauer in mano , per che non sempre accade di hauer arme determinate & per tal effetto formate , ne per auentura sarrebbe cosa da Soldato, da Caualliero, il non saper offendere ne difendere se non con arme per tal bisogno formate. Onde si potrebbe dire che il Soldato non fosse da gli altri huomini diferente per saper meglio adoperar la spada, o la roncha, ma per saper in ogni occasione conoscer meglio l'auantagio & con giuditio sapersi difendere con qual si uoglia cosa, & sicuramente offendere, che in altro non consiste il uero schermir, & chi pensa poter apprehender quest'arte per essesercitarsi in molti colpi particolari di punta & di taglio s'inganna.

THE meanes of defending a blowe given either with the edg or point of the sword, are three. One is when the weapon is opposed to the blow, in such sort that the weapon which cometh striking either at the head or at the bodie, cannot hit home to the place whereuto it is directed, but hindered by some thing or other then set against it, be it sword, dagger, target, bil, Javelin, or anie thing els, which at that instant a man hath in his hand. For it chanceth not alwaies to weare or carrie weapons of purpose, or ordained to that entent. Neither happelie is it thought shoulier or gentlemanlike, not to know how to strike or defend, but onely with wepons framed to that end: for which cause, it may wel be said, that the soldier differeth from other men, not because he is more skilful in handling the sword or javelyn, but for that he is expert in everie occasion to know the best advantage & with judgement both to defend himself with anie thing whatsoever, and therewithal safelie to offend the enimie: In which & no other thing consisteth true skirmishing.

Forasmuch as I ought in the Chapters following to teach more particularly all the blows and defenses in every ward, (to the end that no man do marvel why I do not perform the same, and do think that the instruction is therefore imperfect) I think good (because my purpose is now to entreat of that only which pertains to true Art, to the which the blow of the point, or thrusts, are most agreeable, being more ready and strong than any other) to handle them principally, and yet not so, but that I will also talk of edgeblows when in my treatise I come to that place where it shalbe most commodious to strike therewith, placing them near to their wards and defenses, although against all edgeblows this is the best defense, to strike by the right line before the fall of the enemy's sword, for, being delivered in shorter time, it withstands their fall and lighting. The order I say, which I will observe, shalbe, to lay down every ward, their blows and defenses, but principally of the point, then of the edge, if need require.

DOVENDO nei seguenti Capi uenir a piu particolar amaestramento, Et insegnar le offese & difese in ogni guardia, affine che alcuno noni marauigli, non uolendo in es se offese, & difese notare ogni particolar colpo in ogni guardia. Et perciò credamo che la dottrina sia tronca, & manca, ci par di dire che hauendo intentione dir solo quello che spetta per hora alla uera arte, nella quale li colpi di punta sono piu ad essa conueneuoli per esser piu presti & piu forti, di essi principalmente si tratterà non restando però di parlar anco de tagli quando si sarà in loco oue il ferir di taglio torni commodo , & porli appresso le sue difese, benche a tutti i colpi di taglio si a ottima quella difesa del ferir per linea retta prima che la spada caschi, perche andando in tempo piu breue si uieta il cader. l'ordine dunque che teniremo sarà di per per ogni guardia , le sue offese & difese delle punte principalmente, & poi de tagli se sarà bisogno.

For as much as I ought in the Chapters folowing to teach more particularly all the blowes and defences in every warde, (to the ende that no man doe mervaile why I do not perfourme the same, and do thinke that the instruction is therefore imperfect) I thinke good (because my purpose is now to intreat of that only which pertaineth to true Arte, to the which the blow of the point, or thrustes, are most agreeable, being more readie and strong than ony other) to handle them principally, and yet not so, but that I will also talke of edg blows when in my treatise I come to that place where it shalbe commodious to strike therewith, placing them neere to their wardes and defenses, anthough against all edgeblose this is the best defence, to strike by the right lyne before the fall of the enimies sword, for, being delivered in the shorter time, it withstandeth their fall and lighting. The order I say, which I will observe, shalbe, to laie downe every warde, their blowes and defences, but principally of the poynt, then of the edge, if neede require.

The truest, and surest blow that may be given when a man lies at the high ward, is, the thrust above hand, aswell for that it is in the straight line, as also, because it naturally stays itself in the low ward: So that from the beginning to the ending of this blow, there is never any time given to the enemy to enter, by reason, that the point stands always directly against him. But in the discharging of this blow, a man must remember to draw his left foot near his right foot, and then to increase forwards with the right foot, and to deliver it as forcibly as he may, staying himself in the low ward.

IL PIV uero & sicuro colpo che si poßi trar ritrouandosi in guardia alta , è la imbrocata; per esser di linea retta, & andando a fermarsi naturalmente in guardia bassa, di mo do che dal principio al fine di questo colpo, mai si da tempo all'inimico di entrare , per star sempre con la punta uerso lui, ma nel scaricar .questo colpo, si uuol auertir di prima ritirar il pie stanco appresso il destro & lasciarla poi andar con la cresciuta del pie destro con quella maggior furia che si puo, affermandosi in guardia bassa.

The truest, and surest blowe that may be given when a man lyeth at the high warde, is, the thrust above hande, aswell for that it is in the straight lyne, as also, because it naturally stayeth it selfe in the lowe warde: So that from the beginning to the ending of this blowe, there is never any time given to the enimie to enter, by reason, that the point standeth alwayes directly against him. But in the discharging of this blowe, a man must remember to drawe his left foote neere his right foote, & deliver it as forcibly as he may, staying him selfe in the lowe warde.

All the fury in striking before spoken of, is utterly frustrated, when, as here it may be withstands and encounters the first thrust. For the defense whereof it is needful that he stand at the low ward, and as the thrust comes, that he encounter it without, with the edge of the sword, and increase a slope pace forward, with the hindfoot at the very same time, by which pace he moves out of the straight line, and passes on the right side of the enemy. And he must remember to bear always the point of the sword toward the enemy: So that the enemy in coming forwards, either runs himself on the sword, which may easily happen, and so much the rather, when he comes resolutely determined to strike, or else if he come not so far forwards that he encounters the sword, yet may be safely struck, with the increase of a straight pace: to which pace, having suddenly joined a slope pace, a man must return and increase again though the enemy were struck at the first increase of that pace: For if at the first stroke and increase, the enemy were not hit in the eye, it shall be of small purpose. Therefore as soon as he has used the crooked or slope pace, he must presently increase an other straight pace, the which does so much gather upon the enemy, that if he would strike him in the breast, he may thrust his sword up to the hilts.

TUTTA la furia del colpir già detto sarà nulla & uana quando nel modo che qui si uede si andarà a uietare & ad incontrar la prima punta, per il qual ripara gli é dibisogno di ritrouarsi in guardia bassa & uenendo la punta andarla ad incontrar per di fuora con il, crescendo nel medesmo tempo con il piede di dietro un passo obliquo, con il qual passo si muoue fuor della linea retta & si passa nella parte destra dell'inimico & duesi star auertito, di tenir se sempre la punta della spada uerso l'inimico, acciò, ò uenendo inanti uenga da se stesso a ferirsi ilche suol facilmente accadere, & tanto piu quante uengono risolutamente a ferir; ouero non uenendó tanto inanti che s'incontrino nella spada possino esser al sicuro feriti dalla cresciuta del passo diritto, al qua le subito fatto il passo obliquo si dee risoluere, ancor che l'inimico restasse nella prima cresciuta ferito percioche quella ferita non cogliendo nell occhio sarà di poca importanza però subito che si haurà fatto il passo obliquo, si crescera con l'altro passo retto, ilqual passo cresce tanto adosso l'inimico cha uenendo, fatto di passarlo nel petto gli si cacciera, la spada fino al'else.

The most sure, most true principal blow that may be used in this ward is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foot near his right foot, and then discharge it with the _ of the said foot, and settle himself in the low ward.

La Vera principale & piu sicura botta che si poßi in questa guardia usare; e la stocatta, tirando prima il pie stanco appresso il destro. Et scarirandola poi con la cresciuta del piu destro; affermandosi in guardia bassa,

THe most sure, most true & principall blowe that may be used in this warde is the thrust underhand, so that a man draw his left foote neere his right foote, and then discharge it with the increase of the saide foote, and settle himselfe in the lowe warde.

If a man would defend himself from the blows of the aforesaid broad ward, it is good that he stand against his enemy in the low ward: for the whilst he is so opposite in the same ward, the enemy may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himself. So that he which is in the low ward may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would only oppose his sword, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter his enemy's sword with the edge of his own, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enemy. And as he so turns his hand and edge of his sword, it shalbe good that he carry his forefoot a half crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himself in the broad ward. For defense of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enemy lifts up the end of the Rapier out of the straight line, because then of force he fetches a compass: And whilst he so does, a man must make a straight pace forwards, and with his left hand take holdfast of the sword hand of his enemy, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath already prepared.

Volendosi difender dalli colpi che escono dall sopradetta guardia larga è buono ritrouraseli contra in guardia bassa; percioche l`esserli opposto nella medesma guardia; non porge facilità di entrare; & torna molot discommoda al difendere, onde che ritroundaosigli in guardia bassa si puo facilmente & commodamente uietar il mandritto & riuerscio con il spinger, per che si giungerà prima & uolendosi pur oppor alla spada & non ferirli soto, si deura incontrar la spada inimca con il filo uolgendol poi subito ferendo di riuerso la faccia inimica, & con questo uolger di mano & di taglio sarà buono portrar il pie dinanzi mezo passo obliquo nella parte destra affermandosi in guardia larga. Alla difesa del riuerso si deue star auertito quando l`inimico leua la punta della spada dalla linea retta, percio che è forza che giri, & in quel tépo có la sinistra mano facendo un passo retto si deue prender la mano dell`inimico della spada, & ferirlo nel modesimo tempo d’una punta di sotto già preparata per riparo della stocata

IF a man would defend himselfe from the blowes of the foresaide broad warde, it is good that he stande against the enimie in the lowe warde: for whilest he is so opposite in the same warde, the enimie may neither easily enter, neither commodiously defend himselfe. So that he which is in the lowe warde may very easily withstand the downright blow, and the reverse by giving a thrust, for that he shall hit him first, And if he would onely oppose his sworde, and not strike also therewithall, he must encounter the enimies sword with the edge of his owne, and turning the same edge fetch a reverse, striking at the face of the enimie. And as he so turneth his hand and edge of his sworde, it shalbe good that he carrie his forefoote a halfe crooked or slope pace towards his right side, staying himselfe in the broad warde. For defence of the reverse, it is to be marked, when the enimie lifteth up the point of the Rapier out of the straight lyne, because then of force he fetcheth a compasse: And whilest he so doth, a man must make a straight pace forwardes, and with his left hande take holdfast of the sworde hande of the enimie, and incontinently wound him with a thrust underneath alreadie prepared.

A Man may in like manner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blow, and a reverse: but the true and principal effect of this ward, is to expect the enemy, aswell for that a man bears himself without wariness, as also, because it is apt and ready to defend all blows either high or low: For being in the middle, it is easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne down: So that when one stands in this ward, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the downright blow, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight line) are deadly, because they give time to the enemy to enter nimbly with a thrust. The thrust therefore, may be only used when one means to strike first, and it is practiced either within, or without, always regarding in either of the ways, so to bear and place his arm, that he have no need (before he thrust) to draw back the same. The enemy ward it, by the traverse or cross motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to increase a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enemy's arm and his body and with the increase of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this manner of thrust does easily speed, because it increases continually in the straight line in such sort that the enemy can do no other then give back, and especially when it is done without, for then the sword is safe from the traverse motion of the other sword.

SI PUO parimente in questa guardia si come nell’altre ferir di punta, taglio diritto riuerso, ma il uero & principal effetto di essa, è l’aspettar l`inimico, si perche in essa si puo tratenir algnanto l’huomo senza stancarsi, s ianco perche è molto atta à riparar con prestezza tutti i colpi si alti come baßi. Percioche essendo nel mezzo puo facilmente un poco alzarsi & alquanto abbassarsi. Ritrouandosi dunque alcuno in questa guardia non deue per suo auantaggio esser primo a trar mandritto o riuerso percioche partendosi l’uno & l’altro dalla linea retta possono esser causa di morte, dando tempo all’inimico di presto entrar di punta. La punta sola si puo usar uolendo esser primo a ferire, & si può trar o dentro o di fuori. Auertendo però in l’uno & l’altro modo di hauer il braccio in tal modo situato. Che non sia bisogno prima che si spinga ritirarlo, & uenendo questa punta riparata dall’inimico con la spada di trauerso, come alcuni sogliono. All’hora si deue crescer un passo diritto & alziar la mano dalla spada facendo andar la punta in giu tra la spada & la uita, all uita, dell’inimico spingendo la punta con la cresciuta del passo diritto del pie destro & questa punta suol facilmente ferir percioche ua crescendo & continuamente per linea retta di modo che l’inimico non puo far altro che ritirarsi & maximamente quando si ferisce per di fuora per trouarsi a quel modo la spada al sicruo di trauerso.

A Man may in like maner in this ward, as in others, deliver a thrust, a right blowe, and a reverse: but the true and principall effect of this warde, is to expect the enimie, aswell for that a man beareth him selfe without warinesse, as also, because it is apt and readie to defende all blowes either high or lowe: For being in the middle, it is as easily somewhat lifted up, as something borne downe: So that when one standeth in this warde, he may not (as for his advantage) be the first that shall give either the down-right blowe, or the reverse: for both the one and the other (departing out of the straight lyne) are deadly, because they give time to the enimie to enter nimbly with a thrust, The thrust therefore, may be only used when one meaneth to strike first, and it is practised either within, or without, alwaies regarding in either of the waies, so to beare and place his arme, that he have no neede (before he thrust) to drawe backe the same. And if the enimie warde it, by the traverse or crosse motion of his Rapier, as many use to do, then he ought to encrease a straight pace and lift up his sword hand, holding the point thereof downwards betwixt the enimies arme and his bodie, & with the encrease of a straight pace to deliver a thrust. And this maner of thrust doth easily speede, because it increaseth continually in the straight lyne in such sort that the enimie can do no other then give backe, and especially when it is done without, for then the sworde is safe from the traverse motion of the other sworde.

Because both the downright blow, and the reverse are very easily defended in this ward, I will not stand to speak of any other then of the thrust, restraining myself thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstood, may prove very mortal and deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwards with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turn of the hand also inwards, and the compass of the hindfoot, so far towards the right side, as the hand goes towards the right side. And the enemy shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turn his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enemy's face, carrying always his forefoot on that side where his hand goes. If the enemy's thrust come outwards, then it is necessary, that with the turn of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword increasing in the same instant one slope pace, by means whereof he delivers his body from hurt. And therewithall (increasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust already prepared) he does most safely hurt the enemy.

SENDO sicurißima & facdifesa del diritto & riuerso di questa guardia non ne starò per hora adir altro ristringend mi solo all punta, la quale non uenendo uietata in principio puo esser causa di morte. Sendo dunque tratta questa punta di dentro, si si deue batterla con il filo per di dentro & questo si adimanda uolta di mano indentro girando tanto il pie di dietro nella parte destra quanto la mano ua la sinistra & trouata & spinta che si ha la spada inimica si deue uolger la mano & tagliar di riuerso alla faccia portando pur sempre il piede dinanzi in quella parte oueua la mano. Se mo questa punta uenirà per di fuora, bisogna pur spingerla con il’filo & uolta di mano infuora, crescnedo nell’istesso tempo un passo obl;iquo, mediante il quale si teua la uita dall’ofesa, & crescendo l’altro passo diritta spingendo la punta perparata, si ua al sicro a ferir l’inimico.

BEcause both the down-right blowe, and the reverse are verie easily defended in this warde, I will not stand to speake of any other then of the thrust, restraining my selfe thereunto. The which thrust, if at the first it be not withstoode, may prove verie mortall & deadly. Therefore, when this thrust is given within, it must be beaten inwardes with the edge of the Rapier, requiring the turne of the hand also inwards, and the compasse of the hinder foote, so farre towards the right side, as the hande goeth towardes the right side. And the enimie shall no sooner have delivered the thrust, and he found the sword, but he ought to turne his hand, and with a reverse to cut the enimies face, carying alwaies his forefoote on that side where his hand goeth. If the enimies thrust come outwardes, then it is necessarie, that with the turne of his hand he beat it outwards with the edge of his sword encreasing in the same instant one slope pace, by meanes whereof he delivereth his bodie from hurt. And therewithall (encreasing another straight pace, and delivering his thrust alreadie prepared) he doth most safely hurt the enimie.

Having as briefly as I might possibly finished all that which might be said, of true knowledge of single Rapier: it seems convenient, that coming from the simple to the compound, I handle these weapons first, which from the Rapier forwards are either most simple or least compound: And especially those which now adays are most used, and in the which men are most exercised, the which weapons are the Rapier and Dagger accompanied together, and are a great increase and furtherance both in striking and defending.

Essendo con quanta breuita è stata poßibile uenuto al fine di quello che per la uera scienza della spada si può trattare, pare cosa conueneuole, uenendo dal semplice al composito, trattar di quelle armi prima ceh dalla spada sola in fuori sono o piu semplici o meno composite, & di quelle principalmente che piu hoggi di s’ufsano, & nelle quali piu gli huomini si esercitano, le quali sono la spada accompagnata dal pugnale, che è accrescimento si in offesa a come in difesa.

Having as briefely as I might possibly finished all that which might be saide, of true knowledge of Single Rapier: it seemeth convenient, that comming from the simple to the compound, I handle those weapons first, which from the Rapier forwards are either most simple or least compound: And especially those which noweadayes are most used, and in the which men are most exercised, the which weapons are the Rapier & Dagger accompanied together, and are a great encrease and furtherance both in striking and defending.

In the handling of these weapons, men use to frame many wards, all which, because many of them carry no reason, for that they are ether out of the straight line, either under them a man may be easily be struck, I will cast aside as impertinent to my purpose, and retain myself unto those three with the which a man may safely strike and defend, whereunto all the rest may be reduced.

Si sogliono in quest’arme porre molte quardie; delle quali sendone molte che non banno ragione per cioche o sono fuori della linea retta, o si puo sotiesse facilmente eßer ferito lequali tutte come danose, & nõ tõuenieti pute al proposito nosiro lasciero da parte ristringedomi a quelle tre sole co le quali si puo facilmete offedere et difendersi, le altre tutte facilmente a queste tre si possono ridurre.

IN the handling of these weapons, men use to frame manie wardes, all which, because many of them carrie no reason, for that they are ether out of the streight line, either under them a man maie easelie bee stroken, I wil cast aside as impertinent to my purpose, & regrain my self unto those three with the which a man may safele strike & defend, wherunto all the rest maie be reduced.

said elsewhere that the left side of the person is that part which the dagger ought to defend, that is to say, from the knee upwards: the lower parts together with the right side ought wholly to be warded with the sword.

Altrove ho detto quella parte della persona, che deue defendere il pugnale esser la sinistra cioè; dal ginocchio in su. Ma la parte piu bassa inseme con la destra uuole tuttoa esser difesa dalla spada per piu commodità, & sicurezza.

I Have said elswhere that the left side of the eperson is that part which the dagger ought to defend, that is to saie, from the knee upwards: the lower parts together with the right side ought wholy to bee warded with the sword.

As in handling the single Rapier, so likewise in this, it shall not be amiss to begin with the High ward, which in managing these two weapons may be framed after two sorts. The one with the right foot before, which I call the first : and the other with the same foot behind, which I will term the second. This second requires a greater time, because the point of the sword is farther off from the enemy. The first (being more near) with the only increase of the foot forwards, strikes more readily, yet not with more forcible than the second, which, when it strikes with an increase of a straight pace, joins to the force of the arm and hand, the strength of the whole body.

ESSENDO questa guardia naturalmente prima si come ho detto nella sola spada, sarà conuencuole l'incominciar da questa, la quale in quest'arme, si può formare in duo modi,l'uno con il pié dritto inanti, ilquale dimanderemo primo, l'altro con l'istesso piede indietro, ilquale s'adimanderà secondo, & questo per hauere la punta della spada piu luntana da l'inimico , uiene ad hauere bisogno di maggior tempo, ma il primo, per essere piu d uicino, con la sola cresciuta del pie dinanzi serisce piu presto, ma non già contanta forza, come il secondo, ilquale ferendo con il passo retto, aggiunge alla forza del braccio , & della mano, anco la forza di tutta la uita .

As in handling the single Rapier, so likewise in this, it shall not be amisse to begin with the High warde, which in managing these two weapons may be framed after two fortes. The one with the right foote before, which I will call the first: and the other with the same foot behind, which I will terme the second. This second requireth a greater time, because the point of the sworde is farther off from the enimie. The first (being more neere) with the onely encrease of the foote forwardes, striketh more readily, yet not more forcible than the second, which, when it striketh with the encrease of a straight pace, joyneth to the force of the arme & hand, the strength of the whole bodie.

To speak of the manner how to withstand the blows of the edge, having already said that all such blows may easily be warded by giving a thrust, I omit as superfluous. But for the defenses of both sides of the body: I say, it is great vantage, to stand at the low ward, with the right foot forwards which manner of standing, the right side is put forth toward the enemy, whereunto he will direct all his thrusts: and those may be encountered after three sorts, that is to say: with the Dagger only: with the Sword only: and with both joined together. But in each of them, a man must remember to increase a whereby that part of the body which is to be struck is voided out of the straight line.

Come cosa superflua lascio di dire la maniera conlaqua.,le si uietano i colpi ai taglio, hauendo di gia detto, che có le pú te sipossono uietare tutti i colpi di taglio. per difesa dunq; delle due parte é grandißimo auàtagio ritrouarsi in guardia bassa con il pie diritto inanti , il qual sito uenirai ad esponere all inimico la parte destra, nella quale egli drizzera le sue pute, alle quali si puo opponere in tre modi, cioe, ó con il solo pugnale:, o con la sola spada, o con ambidoi inseieme; main ciascuno dessi si dee auertire di crescere un passo obliquoo, mediante il quale uiene arimo uere dalla linea retta quella parte de la uita nella qual si ueniua a ferire.

TO speake of the manner how to withstand the blowes of the edge, having alreadie saide that all such blowes may easelie be warded by givinge a thrust, I omit as superfluous. But for the defences of both sides of the bodie: I saie, it is greate vantage, to stand at the lowe warde, with the right foote forwardes, by the which manner of standing, the right side is put fourth towarde the enimie, whereunto he will direct all his thrustes: and those may be encountred after three fortes, that is to saye: with the Dagger onely: with the Sworde onely: and with both joyned together. But in each of them, a man must remember to encrease a slope pace, whereby that parte of the bodie which was to be strooken is voided out of the straight lyne.

In each weapon and ward, I have laid down as a general precept, that no man ought, (either for the procuring of any advantage, either for striking the enemy more readily) deliver blows of the edge. And in like sort, I have said, that easily and with small danger, one may be struck under any such blow : which precepts, as in each time and place, they ought to be observed: so in this ward principally they may not be forgotten. For a man may not without great discommodity and loss of time, strike with any edgeblow, as he stands in this ward.

Per uniuersale precetto ho dato in ogni arma & in ogni guardia, che no si debba per procurarsi auantagio ouero p fe¬rir piu presto linimico, trar colpi di taglio et pariméte che có facilità, et có poco pericolo si puo essere feriti sotto le coltellate. I quali precetti se ben si debbono in ogni luogo, & tempo osserrare, in questa guardia principalmente non si debbono giammai preterire, percioche in essa non si puo se non con grandißima discomodità, et lungezza di tempo ferire di tagliò.

IN each weapon and warde, I have layde downe as a generall precept, that no man ought, (either for the procuring of any advantage, either for striking the enimie more readily) deliver blowes of the edge, And in like sorte, I have saide, that easily and with small danger, one may be strooken under any such blowe: which precepts, as in each time and place, they ougth to be observed: so in this warde principally they may not be forgotten. For a man may not without great discommoditie and losse of time, strike with any edgeblowe, as he standeth at this warde.

This thrust as well as the other may be warded after three sorts, to wit: with the Dagger only, with the sword only, and with both joined together. But for a mans defense in any of these ways, it is good to stand at the low ward. And when he wards with the dagger only, he must make a slope pace, and finding the enemy's sword, with his said dagger, discharge a thrust underneath with the increase of a straight pace.

VESTA ancora si come, l'altre punte, si può in tre modi difendere cioè o co'l solo pugnale, o con la sola spada, o có ambidoi insieme, ma per difendersi in qual si uoglia modo é utilisimo il ritrouarsi in guardia bassa & quando si parerà col solo pugnale, si douerà crescere il passo obliquo, & trouata co'l pugnale la spada inimica ferire subito d'une punta dissotto con la cresciuta del passo, retto.

THis thrust also as well as the other may be warded after three sortes, to wit: with the Dagger only, with the sword only, and with both joyned together. But for a mans defence in any of these waies, it is good to stande at the lowe warde. And when he wardeth with the dagger only, he must make a slope pace, and finding the enimies sworde, with his said dagger, discharge a thrust underneath with the increase of a straight pace.

In each ward, when one stands bearing the point of the sword towards the enemy, it does much disadvantage him to strike with the edge. And if in any sort it be lawful so to do, it is, when he stands at the low ward: For it is commodious, and there is spent but little time in the bestowing of an edgeblow between thrusts. or, the rather to try the enemy, there may be delivered an edgeblow from the wrist of the hand, in the which as there is spent little time, so the point is carried but a little out of the straight line, so that the enemy may very hardly enter to strike under either of these blows. But it is better, not to use them, resolving rather to discharge thrust after thrust, then any edgeblow.

In tutte le guardie qual uolta si truoua con la punta uerfo l'inimico, é grandßimo disauantagio il ferire di taglio, & se in modo alcuno è pur lecito ferire di taglio, è quando l'huomo si ritruoua in questa guardia bassa, percioche torna commodo, et f consuma poco tempo à trar qualche taglio tra le punte, ouero trahendo può facilmente, presto per tentare l'inimico trar un taglio di nodo, nel quale, & si consuma poco tempo, et si leua poco la punta dalla linea retta, di modo che dificilmente si puó sotto questi tagli entrar a ferire, pur il non usarl sarà meglio risoluendosi piu prestoa trar una púta dopo una punta, che un taglio.

IN each warde, when one standeth bearing the poynt of the sworde towards the enimie, it doth much disadvantage him to strike with the edge. And if in any sorte it be lawfull so to do, it is, when he standeth at the lowe warde: For it is commodious, and there is spent but little time in the bestowing of an edgeblowe betweene thrustes. Or, the rather to trie the enimie, there may be delivered an edgeblow from the wrist of the hand, in the which as there is spent little time, so the poynt is carried but a litle out of the straight lyne, so that the enimie may very hardly enter to strike under either of these blowes. But it is better, not to use them, resolving rather to discharge thrust after thrust, then any edgeblowe.

Although in the defense of blows in each ward there is great consideration and heed to be taken: yet in this especially is required a far more excellent judgment and readiness in action. For this ward does oppose itself against all others. And the greater part of blows which are of importance, proceed from this ward. Besides, every man does naturally more accustom himself to stay and repose himself in it, than in any other. Neither is it (as I believe) for any other cause, then that he knows, by so bearing himself, he may easily both strike and defend. And because in this ward, as I have before said, in the hurt or offense thereof, it more commodious to strike with the edge than in any other ward, albeit, it is not there given for counsel to be good to use it.

Ancora che perdifesa de i colpi di ogni guardia uisia bisogno di grandißima consideratione, in questa nulla uimeno molto piu eccelente giudito, & prestezza, percioche questa guardia si oppone a tutte l’altre, & la maggior parte de colpi importanti piu che in ciascun’ altra si ferma, & riposa, ne credo per altra cagi ne, che per conoscere di potersi in tal sito facilmente difendere, & offendere, & perche in questa come si detto nell offesa piu che in niun’ altro modo torna comodo il ferir di taglio, ancora che non si sia datao per consiglio che sia buono usarlo; pure per poter facilmente accadere senc porra qualche difesa.

ALthough in the defence of blowes in eche warde, there is great consideration & heede to be taken: yet in this especially is required a farr more excellent judgement and readines in action. For this warde doth oppose it selfe against all others. And the greater part of blowes which are of importance, proceed from this warde. Besides, every man doth naturally more accustom himself to staie and repose himselfe in it, than in any other. Neither is it (as I beleeve) for any other cause, then that he knoweth, by so bearing himselfe, he may easilie both strike and defend. And because in this warde, as I have before saide, in the hurt or offence thereof, it is more commodious to strike with the edge than in any other warde, albeit, it is not there given for counsell to be good to use it.

That I may continue in the weapons which are most usual and most commonly worn: After the Dagger, I come to the Cloak: The use whereof was first found by chance and reduced into Art. Neither was this for any other cause, than for that nature does not only delight to invent things, but also to preserve them being invented. And that she may the better do it, she takes for her help all those thins that are commodious for her. Wherefore, as men in diverse accidents have casually proved, that the Cloak helps greatly (for as much as they are to wear it daily) they have devised how they may behave themselves in that, in which the Cloak may serve their turn. Which accidents, because they are infinite, and do not generally serve for our purpose, I will restrain myself and speak of those only which appertain to this Art, the which are such and so effectual, that they may greatly help to the obtaining of safe victory, if they happen to be placed in such a man as knows how to use and handle them. And for that in true Art it does little prevail, the use thereof being in a manner altogether deceitful, I was resolved to put over all this to the treatise of Deceit, as unto his proper place. Notwithstanding, to the end it may not seem strange to any man, to read nothing of the Cloak in all the handling of true Art, I am minded to lay down a certain few blows in the accustomed wards, referring the more abundant handling thereof unto the treatise of Deceit.

Per continuare nelle arme piu usate, con li quali piu facilmente l’huomo si truoua, dopo il pugnale uengo all capa, l’uso della quale è stato prima ritrouato dal caso, & poi ridotto in arte, ne cio per altra causa, se non che la Natura non solo intende di genarare le cose, me ancora le generate conseruare, & per cio fare piglia in suo agiuto tutte quelle cose che le sono commode. Onde hauendo prouato gli huomini in diuersi Accidente casualmente esserli stat la capa di grande agiuto, douendola ogni hora portrare, si sono imaginati di ualersene in tutto quello, che ella gli può seruire, i quali accidenti per eßer infiniti, & non fare tutti al nostro proposito, mi ristringerò à parlare di questi solamente, che à quest'arte appertengono, i quali anche eßi son tanti, & tali, che possono apportrare gran giouamento, & sicura uittoria, s’auiene che si truoui huomo, che se ne sappia ualere; uero che per la uerà arte poco se ne potiamo seruire, per essere l’uso dela capa quasi tutto inganneuole; Onde me era quasi risoluto di uoler diferir tutto questo trattato all’inganno, come a suo proprio luego. Tuttauia accio non paia adalcuno strano il non uedere nel uero trattato cosa alcun della capa, ho uoloto porui nelle solite guardie alcuni pochi colpi riserbandomi a palarne poi nell’inganno diffusamente, & quanto si conuiene.

That I maie continue in the weapons which are most usuall and most commonly worne: After the Dagger, I come to the Cloade: The use whereof was first founde out by chaunce and after reduced into Arte. Neither was this for any other cause, then for that nature doth not onely delight to invent things, but also to preserve them being invented. And that shee may the better doe it, shee taketh for her help all those things that are commodious for her. Wherefore, as men in divers accidets have casually proved, that the Cload helpeth greatly (for as much as they are to weare it daily) they have devised how they may behave them selves in all that, in which the Cload may serve their turne. Which accidents, because they are infinite, & do not generally serve for our purpose, I wil restraine my selfe and speake of those onely which appertaine to this Arte, the which are such and so effectuall, that they may greatly helpe to the obteining of safe victorie, if they happen to be placed in such a man as knoweth howe to use and handle them. And for that in true Arte it doth little pervaile, the use thereof being in a manner altogether deceitfull, I was resolved to put over all this to the treatise of Deceit, as unto his proper place, Notwithstanding, to the ende it may not seeme strange to any man, to read nothing of the Cload in al the handling of true Art, I am minded to laye downe a certaine fewe blowes in the accustomed wardes, referring the more abundant handling thereof unto the treatise of Deceit.

As the Cloak in this Art, has in it three things to be considered, to wit: length, largeness, and flexibility: so it is to be weighed how far each of these will stretch, to serve the turn. of which three, one does properly belong to it, and that is flexibility, which may neither be increased nor diminished: The other two, may receive alteration. But yet it is at any hand to be provided, that these two also be not diminished. For the Cloak is no strong thing, which of itself may withstand the blows of the weapon, being directly opposed against them.

Havendo la cap in se tre cose da confidare in quest’arte, cio é lungezza, larhezza, & Flesibilità, ci deue in qunato quelle si estendon seruire, della quali luna é, come sua propria, cio é la Flesibilità, la qual non si puo gia ne accrescere ni isminuire, l’altre due possono ricuere alteration. Ma però si deue in ogni inodo procurare di non minuire, ne anco quest’ altre due; Percio che la capa non é cosa forté , che per su possa resistere alli copa della spada, opponendosele rettamente.

AS the Cloake in this Arte, hath in it three things to be considered, to wit: length, largenesse, and flexibilitie: so it is to be wayed how far each of these will stretch, to serve the turne. Of which tree, one doth properly belong unto it, and that is flexibilitie, which maie neither be encreased nor diminished: The other two, may receive alteration. But yet it is at any hande to be provided, that these two also be not diminished. For the Cloake is no strong thing, which of it selfe may withstand the blowes of the weapon, being directly opposed against them.

There are two ways (in these days) to wrap the Cloak, the one is, when one having leisure takes the Cloak by the cape or collar, and so folds it once or twice about his arm: The other is, as often times it falls out, when letting the Cloak fall down upon from the shoulder, it is happily taken by one side, and so is turned once or twice about the arm.

Doi sono i modi per hora di iimbracciar la capa l'uno quando hauendo tempo si piglia la capa nel capuccio, & si uolge una ò due uolte intorno al braccio. Laltro che spesse uolte accade quando lasciandosi cader la capa qiu della spalla si piglia casualmente da un lato & si uoltegia intorno al braccio una o piu uolte.

THere are two waies (in these daies) to wrappe the Cloade, the one is, when one having leasure taketh the Cloake by the cape or coller, and so fouldeth it once or twice about his arme: The other is, as often times it falleth out, when letting the Cloke fall downe from the shoulder, it is happelie taken by one side, & so is turned once or twice about the arme.

In these manner of weapons as in others, I will frame three wards: The first by the foresaid reasons, shall be the high warde, which in these kind of weapons more then in any other deserve the name of a ward. For the Rapier (something bending) wards as far as the cloak hand, and the cloakhand down to the middle leg: so that in this ward a man is warded from the top of the hand down to the foot. Therefore standing at this ward, whether it be with the right foot before or behind, he may deliver a thrust with the increase of a half pace forwards, staying himself in the low ward.

Formermo in questa sorte d’arme si come nelle altre, tre guardie & la prima per la raggion dette sarà l’alta, la quale in questa qualità d’arme piu che in niun’ altra merita il nome di guardia, percioche la spada alquanto piegata difende sino alla man della capa & lei da li in giu sino a mezza gamba di modo che in questa quardia l’huomo si truoua diffeso dalla cima del capo sino a i piedi. Ritrouandosi dunque in questa guardia o sia con il piede dritto inanzi, o indietro si puo ferir di punta con la cresciuta di mezo passo inanzi affermandosi in guardia bassa.

IN these maner of weapons, asin others, I will frame three wardes: The first by the foresaid reasons, shall be the high warde, which in these kind of wepons more then in anie other deserve the name of a ward. For the Rapier (something bending) wardeth as farre as the clok hand, and the clokhand down to the middle legg: soe that in this ward a man is warded from the top of the head down to the foot. Therefore standing at this warde, whether it be with the right foote before or behinde, he may deliver a thrust with the encrease of a halfe pace forwards, staying himselfe in the lowe warde.

For the better avoiding of the hurts which proceed from the high ward: it is necessary to stand at the low ward, in the which the thrust is to be warded iiii manner of ways, to wit: either with the single sword within or without, either with the single Cloak within or without. If with the single sword within, it is requisite to fetch a compass with the foot backwards on the right side. In like case to turn the body the same way, to the intent, to carry it out of the straight line (in which the blow comes) and to drive a reversed thrust at the face, the which thrust in such order delivered is the longest that is, and such a one, as thereby the hurt is not only voided, but also at the self same time, the enemy is struck in the face. If it chance, that the sword be encountered without then it is not only profitable but also necessary, to step forwards and with the Cloak to encounter the enemy's sword in the first part thereof. And recovering his own sword, to discharge a thrust underneath with the increase of the right foot. And although it be laid down for a rule, not to use a whole pace when handling the Cloak, this ought to be understood in striking, the which (whilst one endeavors to strike with the sword) it may be forgetting the Cloak, his arm may fall, by means whereof he may stumble against it: but in warding, it does not so happen. For nature being careful to defend herself (at every little danger) lifts up both her arms, yea, although they be oppressed with weight and burden.

Per vietar leffese che possono nascer dalla guardia alta, gli è dibisogno ritrouarsi in guardia bassa, nellaqule si puo in quatro modi uietar la punta, cioè, o con la sola spada di dentro & di fuori & con la sola capa pur di dentro & di fuori. Se si uorrà riparar con la sola spada di dentro sarà dibisogno girar il piede per di dietro nella parte destra girando similmente la uita in quella parte, per leuarsi dalla linea retta in che si ferisce spingendo nel medesmo tempo una punta riuersa atta faccia la qual punta in questo modo tratta e la piu lunga che sia & con questa non solo si uieta l’offesa ma nell istesso tempotempo so ferisce l’inimico nella faccia. M s’auiene che si incontri la spada di fuori all hora è non solamente utile ma necessario portar il passo inanti & con la capa incontrar la spada & ferir d’una punta disotto con la cresciuta del pie destro. Et benche si sia dato precetto di non usar passo intiero nella capa, questo si deue intender nelle offese nelle quali attendendosi solo al ferir con la spada, puo facilmente esser che l’huomo scordatosi della cpa cali il braccio, & percio uenga ad incontrarsi coi piedi in iessa, ma nel riparar non auiene cosi, percioche la natura intenta a conseruarsi leua a ogni poco di periglio ambe le braccia ancora che fossero da peso opresse.

FOr the better avoyding of the hurts which proceede from the high warde: it is necessarie to stande at the lowe warde, in the which the thrust is to be warded iiii. manner of waies, to wit: either with the single sworde within and without, either with the single Cloade within and without. If with the single sword within, it is requisite to fetch a compas with the foot backwards on the right side. In like case to turne the bodie the same waie, to the intent, to carrie it out of the straight lyne (in which the blowe commeth) and to drive a reversed thrust at the face, the which thrust in such order delivered is the longest that is, and such a one, as thereby the hurt is not onely voyded, but also at the selfe same time, the enimie is stroken in the face, If it chaunce, that the sworde be encountred without then it is not onely profitable but also necessarie, to step forwardes and with the Cloade to encounter the enimies sworde in the first parte thereof. And recovering his owne sworde, to discharge a thrust underneath with the encrease of the right foote. And although it be laide down for a rule, not to use a whole pace in handling of the Cloade, this ought to be understoode in striking, in the which (whilest one endevoureth to strike with his sworde) it may be forgetting the Cloake, his arme may fall, by meanes whereof he may stumble against it: but in warding, it doth not so happen. For nature being carefull to defende her selfe (at every litle danger) lifteth up both her armes, yea, although they be oppressed with waight and burden.

In this ward, as well as in others, a man may both thrust and strike, yet diversely; For he may not discharge a right edgeblow beneath. And the reverse is manifestly dangerous: So that, when he is to deliver it, he ought to perform it in this order.

In questa guardia parimente si come nell’ altre si puo ferir di punta & tagli, ma diuersamente, percioche non si deue in questa guardia trar solo dritto & il Riuerso e manifestamente percioloso, però douendoli trar, si traranno a questo modo

IN this warde, as well as in others, a man may both thrust and strike, yet diversly: For he may not discharge a right edgeblowe beneath. And the reverse is manifestly dangerous: So that, when he is to deliver it, he ought to perfourme it in this order.

To him that will safely ward himself from the hurt of the broad ward, it is requisite, that he stand at the low ward. And when the thrust underneath comes, he shall thrust at the face, fetching a compass with his hindfoot towards the right side, with which kind of thrust, it does lightly happen that the enemy is hit in the face: but if it fail, yet for all that, the enemy obtains not his purpose, in the discharge of the thrust of the broad ward: For by delivering the thrust underneath, and compassing of the hindfoot, the body is carried out of the straight line: So that, as soon as the thrust is delivered at the face, and the enemy not struck therewith, but passes beyond his head, the reverse is to be turned at the face, and the foot to be plucked back, settling in the broad ward. To ward the right and reversed blows, there is a thrust to be given at the thighs or some other place that may most hinder them, in the very same time that such blows are in their circle or compass. Although I do not believe that there is a man so foolish, that (in this ward) will deliver a reverse only.

A Uolersi sivuramente difender da l’offese di guardia larga fa dibisogno trouarsi in guardia bassa nella qual stando & uenendo la stocatta si spingera una punta all afacia, girando il piede di dietro nella parte destra con la qual punta puo facilmente auenir che si uolga l’inimico nella faccia, ma quando uenisse fallato, nõ percio puo ottenir l’inimico l’intento suo di ferir con la punta di guardia larga perche di gia nel ferir con la punta bassa & con il girar il piede di dietro si tolse la uia della linea retta, però subito spinta la punta alla facci, se non colto l’inimico, ma sendoli passata la spada ddietro alla testa all’hora si deue uoltar di riuerso alla faccia ritirando il piede & affermandosi in guardia larga per riparar il diritto & il riuerso, si deue in quel tépo chegirano, spinger una punta o alla coscia in altro luogo che li sia di maggior impdeimente et danno, benche io nõ credo che si troui alcuno si sciocco che ferisca in questa guardia di riuerso solo.

TO him that will safely warde himselfe from the hurt of the broad warde, it is requisite, that he stand at the lowe warde. And when the thrust underneath hand commeth, he shall thrust at the face, fetching a compas with his hinder foote towardes the right side, with which kinde of thrust, it doth lightly happen that the enimie is hit in the face: but if it faile, yet for all that, the enimie obtaineth not his purpose, in the discharge of the thrust underneath, and compassing of the hinder foote, the bodie is carried out of the straight lyne: So that, as soone as the thrust is delivered at the face, and the enimie not strooken therewith, but passeth beyond his head, the reverse is to be turned at the face, and the foote to be plucked backe, setling in the broad warde. To warde the right and reversed blows, there is a thrust to be given at the thighes or some other place that may most hinder them, in the verie same time that such blowes are in their circle or compas. Although I do not beleve that there is any man so foolish, that (in this warde) will deliver a reverse onely.

This ward is so straight and perilous, that in no man ought to assure himself to deliver an edgeblow any manner of way. For under any of them he may be easily struck, and each of them may easily be warded with the Cloak. Therefore, he must diligently take heed, that he thrust only, the which must never be discharged before the enemy's sword be found, and then as far forwards as possible . So then f finding it, he may thrust both within and without. Neither is there in this thrust any other advantage to be gotten, then to steal a half pace unawares of the enemy, which may be done very commodiously, considering the cloak occupies the enemy's sight, And having drawn his half pace, and found the enemy's sword, he must increase another half pace forwards, and strike him, costing and forcing the enemy's sword, on that side where it may do no hurt. And this may be used both within and without: But he whom it pleases, and who doubts not to be entangled in the Cloak, may (finding himself within) carry his left foot making a pace therewith, and between his Cloak and his sword, close the enemy's sword, and deliver a thrust with the increase of a pace of the right foot: And finding his enemy's sword without, he may use the self same increase and thrust. But if he find not the enemy's sword, he must deliver a little edge blow from the wrist of the hand, in such sort, that the enemy have no leisure to enter in: And having found the Sword, to discharge a right or straight thrust, or else not voiding the enemy's sword by the increase of a left pace, to drive a thrust from aloft downwards, lifting up the fist somewhat high, and delivering it with the increase of a pace of the right foot.

Questa guardia è talmente stretta et pericola che non si deue aßicura alcuno di ferir di taglio in niun modo, percioche sotto ciascuno di eßi si puo facilmente esser ferito & dalla capa possono ambidoi ageuolmente esser riparati, si userà dunque ogni diligenza per ferir di punta solamente, la qual anco mai non se trarà, se prima con la propria spada non si baurà trouata la spada inimica, & piu inanti che sia possibile. Ritrouandola dunque si può ferir di punta, di dentro & di fuori, ne altro auantagio in questa si puo hauer che procurar di robbar un mezzo passo che l’inimico non si accorga, il che uien benissimo fatto, per rispetto che la capa occupa la uista & hauendo ritirato questo mezzo passo, & trouata la spada si deue crescendo il suo mezo passo inanti andar a ferir l’inimico; costegiando la spada inimica & spingerdola da parte che non possa nocere, & questo si userà di dentro & di fuori, ma a chi piacesse & non dubitassi di intricarsi in la capa, si puo trouandosi di dentro portar il passo sinistro & tra la sua capa & spada ferrar la spada de l’inimico, & ferir poscia di punta con la cresciuta del passo destro & trouando la spada inimica di fuora far la medesma cresciuta & ferita. Ma se non uenisse fatto di trouar la spada inimica si puo trar un piccolo taglio di nodo, di modo che non si dia tempo all’inimico di entrare, & trouatola subito andare a ferire o di punta diritta, ouero senza punto abbandonar la spada inimica, con la cresciuta del passo sinistro spinger una punta da alto a basso leuando il pugno al quanto in alto, & cacsiarla con la cresciuta del passo destro.

THis warde is so straight and perilons, that no man ought to assure himself to deliver an edgeblow any manner of waie. For under any of them he may be easily strooken, and each of them may easily be warded with the Cloake. Therefore, he must diligently take heed, that he thrust onely, the which must never be discharged before the enimies sworde be found, and then as farre forwardes as is possible. So then finding it, he may thrust both within and without. Neither is there in this thrust any other advantage to be gotten, then to steale a halfe pace unwares of the enimie, which may be done verie commodiously, considering the cloak occupieth the enimies sight, And having drawen this halfe pace, and found the enimies sword, he must encrease an other halfe pace forwardes, and strike him, costing and forcing the enimies sworde, on that side where it may do no hurt. And this maie be used both within and without: But he whome it pleaseth, and who doubteth not to be entangled in the Cloake, maie (finding himselfe within) carrie his left foote making a pace therewith, and betweene his cloake & his sworde, close the enimies sworde, and deliver a thrust with the encrease of a pace of the right foote: And finding the enimies sword without, he may use the selfe same encrease and thrust. But if he finde not the enimies sword, he may deliver a litle edgeblow from the wrist of the hand, in such sorte, that the enimy have no leasure to enter in: And having found the Sword, to discharge a right or streight thrust, or else not voyding the enimies sword by the encrease of a left pace, to drive a thrust from aloft downwards, lifting up the fist somewhat high, and delivering it with the increase of a pace of the right foote.

To the end a man may ward himself from all the thrusts reckoned in the hurts of this ward, he neither ought, neither happily may do any other thing then void his body from the straight line, wherein the enemy purposes to strike, making a left pace forwards, somewhat thwarting or crossing and striking the enemy safely. The which does not so chance, when one defends himself either with the single Cloak or single Rapier: For whilst he assays to defend himself, he cannot strike. And if the enemy do first move, and strike straight, in the which, his sword is not carried much outwards (and it is hardly done,) I say, the enemy may by stealing of half paces, discharge a thrust perforce. And therefore he must take heed, that (as the enemy moves) he increase a slope pace (by that means voiding the hurt) then a thwart or crossing pace next, with the increase of a straight pace of the right foot, to strike the enemy with a thrust underneath.

Per Difendersi da tutte le punte nel offesa raccontate non si deue, ne forse si puo far altro che fuggir cò la uita dalla linea retta nella quale intende diferir l’inimico, facendosi inanti un passo sinistro al quanto di trauerso, & ferendo l’inimico al sicuro, il che non auiene difendendosi con la capa o spada sola perche attendendo a difendersi non si può offendere, & l’inimico essendosi prima mosso a ferir rettamente non essendoil molto tratta fuora la spada, ilche difficilmente si fa, pupo con corsa di mezi passi cacciar una punta per forza, pero si deurà esser auertito, che mouendosi l’inimico per ferir si deue crescere un passo obliquo & leuarsi da l’offesa, & poscia di trauerso, con la cresciuta del passo retto destro ferir lui di una punta bassa,

TO the ende a man may warde himselfe from all the thrustes reckned in the hurtes of this warde, he neither ough, neither happely may doe any other thing then voide his bodie from the straight line, wherein the enimie purposeth to strike, making a left pace forwards, somewhat thwarting or crossing and striking the enimie safely. The which doth not so chaunce, when one defendeth himselfe, either with the single Cloake or single Rapier: For whilest he assaieth to defend himself, he cannot strike. And if the enimie do first move, and strike straight, in the which, his sworde is not carried much outwardes (and it is hardly done,) I saie, the enimie may be stealing of half paces, discharge a thrust perforce. And therefore he must take heede, that (as the enimie moveth) he encrease a slope pace (by that meanes voyding the hurt) then a thwart or crossing pace next, with the encrease of a straight pace of the right foote, to strike the enimie with a thrust underneath.

Forasmuch as the Buckler is a weapon very commodious and much used, it is reason that I handle it next after the Cloak. For my purpose is, to reason of those weapons first which men do most ordinarily use, then of those that are extraordinary and less accustomed, discoursing upon each of them, as much as is requisite when I come unto them. Therefore I will first consider of the Buckler, therewith proceeding orderly.

FOr asmuch as the Buckler is a weapon verie commodious & much used, it is reason that I handle it next after the Cloak. For my purpose is, to reason of those weapons first which men do most ordinarily use, then of those that are extraordinarie and lesse accustomed, discoursing upon eache of them, as much as is requisite when I come unto them. Therefore I will first consider of the Buckler, therewith proceeding orderly.

As the form of the Buckler is round and small, and ought to be a shield and safeguard of the whole body, which is far greater then it: So it is to be understood how it may accomplish the same, being a matter in a manner impossible.

AS the form of the Buckler is round and small, and ought to be a shilde and safegard of the whole bodie, which is farr greater then it: So it is to be understood how it may accompolish the same, being a matter in a manner impossible.

If a man would, that the Buckler work the said effect, to wit: that it may be able with his smallness to cover the whole body, he must hold and bear it in his fist, as far off from the body as the arm may possibly stretch forth, moving always the arm and buckler together, as one entire and solid thing, having no bending, or as if the arm were united to the buckler, turning continually all the flat thereof towards the enemy. From which kind of holding proceed all these commodities following.

1. The first is, that the arm (standing directly behind the Buckler) is wholly covered, neither may be struck by any manner of thing which is before it.
2. The second, that all edgeblows are of force encountered in the first or second part thereof, where they carry least force: neither can it fall out otherwise, if the enemy would (in manner as he ought) strike either at the head or the body. For if the enemy would strike them, it is necessary, that his sword come within the buckler so much as the arm is long : For otherwise it shall never hit home. And in this case he may well ward each great blow, and therewithal easily strike, and that in a short time.
3. The third commodity is, that all thrusts are most easily warded : for the Buckler being round, with the directly flat opposite against the enemy, and warding all the body, the enemy will not resolve himself to give a thrust but only against those parts which are so well covered by the Buckler, as, the head, the thighs, or some part of the body, being discovered by ill bearing of the buckler. And seeing that these thrusts, having to hit home, ought to enter so far in, as is from the buckler to the body and more (and that is the length of the arm) they may easily and without doubt (making less motion, and therefore in little time) be driven outwards by the Buckler before they come to the body.

IF a man would, that the Buckler worke the said effect, to wit: that it may be hable with his smalnesse to cover the whole bodie, he must holde and beare it in his fist, as farre off from the bodie as the arme may possibly stretch foorth, moving alwaies the arme & buckler together, as one entire and solide thing, having no bendign, or as if the arme were united to the buckler, turning continually al the flatt thereof towards the enimie. From which kionde of holding proceed all these commodities following.

1. The first is, that the arme (standing directly behinde the Buckler) is wholy covered, neither may be strooken by any manner of thing which is before it.
2. The second, that all edgeblows are of force encountred in the firste and second parte thereof, where they carrie least force: neither can it fall out otherwise, if the enimie woulde (in manner as he ought) strike either at the head or bodie. For if the enimie would strik them, it is necessarie, that his sword come within the buckler so much as the arme is long: For otherwise it shal never hit home. And in this case he may well warde each great blow, and therewithal easily strike, and that in short time.
   
   
3. The thirde commoditie is, that all thrustes are most easily warded: for the Buckler being rounde, with the directly flatt opposite against the enimie, & warding all the bodie, the enimie will not resolve himselfe to give a thrust but onely against those partes which are so well covered by the Buckler, as, the head, the thighes, or some parte of the bodie, being found discovered by ill bearing of the Buckler. And seeing that these thrustes, having to hit home, ought to enter so farre in, as is from the buckler to the bodie & more (and that is the length of an arme) they maye easily and without doubt (making lesse motion, and therefore in little time) be driven outwardes by the Buckler before they come to the bodie.

Because it is a very easy matter to ward both the right and reversed blows of the edge : And for that a man may easily strike under them, I will not lay down either for the one or the other their strikings or defendings, but only talk of the thrust. I say, the thrust above may be delivered in the one with the right foot behind, the other with the right foot before.

BEcause it is a verie easie matter to ward both the right and reversed blowes of the edge: And for that a man may easily strike under them, I will not lay down either for the one or the other their strikings or defendings, but onely talke of the thrust. I saye, the thrust above may be delivered in two sortes, the one with the right foote behinde, the otehr with the right foote before.

As a man stands at the low ward he may easily defend both those lofty thrusts. When they come, he standing at the said ward, it shall be best to drive them outwards, with the increase of a left pace, and with his sword and buckler to stay the enemy's sword. And because this left pace is a great increase : and likewise the enemy, driving his thrusts, comes with great force, it may easily come to pass that both may approach so near one to the other, that he may with his buckler give the enemy, the Mustachio, in the face, but that must be done when fit occasion is offered, and then further recovering his own sword to discharge a thrust underneath with the increase of a pace of the right foot.

AS a man standeth at the lowe warde he may easily defend both those loftie thrustes. When they come, he standing at the saide warde, it shall be best to drive them outwardes, with the encrease of a left pace, and with his sword and buckler to s[??]ie the enimies sworde. And because this left pace is a great increase: and likewise the enimie, driving his thrustes, commeth with great force, it may easily come to passe that both may approach so neare one to the other, that he may with his bukler give the enimie, the Mustachio, in the face, but that must be done when fit occasion is offered, and then further recovering his own sword to discharge a thrust underneath with the encrease of a pace of the right foote.

If a man would step forward, and strike as he stands in the broad ward, it is not lawful for him to use any other then the thrust, considering the right and reversed blows may not be delivered without great peril and danger. For in the sight or placing of this ward, the sword is far off from the body. And as he moves to fetch a right or reversed edgeblow, his sword of force will be much farther: So that it may not be done without great danger. Therefore he shall use the thrust only: in forcing and delivery whereof, he shall proceed first to carry his hindfoot a half pace forwards, and then to drive it on with the increase of another half pace of the right foot, staying himself in the broad ward.

IF a man would stepp forward, and strike as he standeth in the broad warde, it is not lawfull for him to use any other than the thrust, considering the right & reversed blowes may not be delivered without great perill and danger. For in the site or placing of this warde, the sword is farre off from the bodie. And as he moveth to fetch a right or reversed edge blowe, his sworde of force wil be much farther: So that it may not be done without great danger. Therefore he shall use the thrust onely: in forcing and deliverie wherof, he shall proceede first to carrie his hinder foote a halfe pace forwardes, and then to drive it on with the encrease of another halfe pace of the right foote, staying himselfe in the broad warde.

Against the thrust of the broad ward, the Buckler is to be opposed, standing at the low ward. And when the enemy comes resolutely to thrust, then without warding it at all, he shall drive a thrust at the face, carrying the hindfoot in a compass towards the right side aswell to lengthen the thrust, as also to carry himself out of the straight line, in the which the enemy comes resolutely to strike, who, by this manner of thrust is easily hurt.

AGainst the thrust of the broad warde, the Buckler is to be opposed, standing at the lowe warde. And when the enimie commeth resolutely to thrust, then without warding it at all, he shall drive a thrust at the face, carrying the hinder foote in a compasse towards the right side as well to lengthen the thrust, as also to carrie himselfe out of the straight lyne, in the which the enimie commeth resolved to strike, who, by this manner of thrust is easily hurt.

As this low ward is framed in two manner of ways, that is to say, with the right foot before and behind: So likewise a man may strike therein after two sorts, Standing with the right foot behind (leaving aside, the blows of the edge, being to small purpose) he shall deliver a thrust with the increase of a the right foot, between the enemy's sword and buckler, or else, if it be more commodious without the sword and buckler, settling in the low ward, with the right foot before, in which ward, a man may strike in two manner of ways, within and without. Finding himself without, having first met the enemy's sword with his own, he shall increase a left pace, not to the intent to avoid himself from the enemy's sword, but shall with his buckler also, stay the enemy's sword, and forasmuch as he did not at the first deliver the said thrust, he shall then continue and force it on directly with the increase of a pace of the right foot. Finding himself within, the same thrust is to be used but more strongly. For, with the increase of a pace, leaving his buckler or the enemy's sword, he shuts it in between his own sword and the buckler: and keeping it in that straight, (whereby he is sure the enemy can deliver no edgeblow because it may not move neither upwards nor downwards, neither forwards, but is then without the body,) he shall continue on, and resolutely deliver this manner of thrust , with the increase of a pace of the right foot.

AS this lowe warde is framed two maner of waies, that is to saie, with the right foot before & behind: So likewise a man may strike therein after two sortes, Standing with the right foote behinde (leaving aside, the blowes of the edge, being to small purpose) he shal deliver a thrust with the encrease of a pace of the right foote, betweene the enimies sworde and buckler, or els, if it be more commodious without the sword and buckler, setling in the lowe warde, with the right foot before, in which warde, a man may strike two manner of waies, within and without. Finding himselfe without having first met the enimies sword with his own, he shall encrease a left pace, not to the intent to avoid himselfe from the enimies sworde, but shall with his buckler also, staie the enimies sworde, and forasmuch as he did not at the first deliver the said thrust, he shal then continue and force it on directly with the encrease of a pace of the right foote. Finding himselfe within, the same thrust is to be used but more strongly. For, with the encrease of a pace, leaving his buckler or thenimies sworde, he shutteth it in betweene his own sword & the buckler: and keping it in that strait, (wherby he is sure the enimy can deliver no edgblow because it may not move neither upwards nor downwards, neither forwards, but is then without the bodie,) he shal continue on, & resolutely deliver this manner of thrust, with the encrease of a pace of the right foote.

For the defense of all these thrusts, it is necessary that he stand at the low ward, and standing thereat, whilst the thrust comes which is delivered with the right foot behind, he shall do no other, than in the selfsame time, deliver a thrust at the thigh or breast, turning the hilt of his sword against the enemy's sword, and compassing his hindfoot, withal bearing his body out of the straight line, in which the enemy strikes. And in this manner of warding does not only defend, but also safely hurt.

FOr the defence of all these thrusts, it is necessarie that he stand at the lowe warde, & standing therat, whilest the thrust cometh which is delivered with the right foote behinde, he shal do no other, than in the selfesame time, deliver a thrust at the thight or brest, turning the hilte of his sword against the enimies sworde, & compassing his hinder foot, withal bearing his body out of the straite line, in which the enimie striketh. And this maner of wardiong doth not only defend, but also safely hurt.

It is most manifest, that the Target is a most ancient weap- on, found out only for the use of warfare, and peculiar quarrels between man and man : albeit, since the finding thereof, there have been devised by the industry of man a thousand ways to serve them at their need: From whence it has come to pass, (because it seemed convenient unto the Professors of this Art) that this weapon was very commodious and profitable, aswell for his fashion, as for it is a mean or middle weapon, between the buckler and the round Target: That they have framed a special kind of play therewith, although it differs from the other two weapons in no other thing then fashion. Therefore, diverse professors of this Art, being moved some by reason of the form, some by the bigness, and some by the heaviness thereof, have accustomed to bear it after diverse ways, Those who make most account of the heaviness, would for some consideration, that the right and proper bearing thereof, was to hold it leaning on the thigh, not moving there hence, but being greatly constrained thereunto.

IT is most manifest, that the Target is a most auncient weapon, found out only for the use of warfare, & not for frayes & peculiar quarels betweene man & man: albeit, since the finding therof, there have beene devised by the industrie of man a thousand waies to serve them at their neede: From whence it hath come to passe, (because it seemed convenient unto the professors of this Art) that this weapon was verie commodious & profitable, aswel for his fashion, as for that it is a meane or middle wepon, betweene the buckler & the round Target: That they have framed a speciall kinde of plaie therwith, although it differeth from the other two weapons in no other thing then in fashion. Therefore, divers professors of this Arte, being moved, some by reason of the forme, some by the bignes, & some by the heavinesse thereof, have accustomed to beare it after divers wayes, Those who make most account of the heavines, would for some consideration, that the right & proper bearing therof, was to hold it leaning on the thigh, not moving therehence, but being greatly constrained thereunto.

Being desirous to bear great respect aswell to all the qualities of this Target (Figure 13) (which are, the form, the bigness, and heaviness) as unto that wherewith it may either help or hurt, I say (if a man would that the form thereof do bring him profit without hurt) it is to be held with the high point thereof upwards respecting the head: the part opposite, the low parts of the body: the right part thereof, the right side, and the left, the left side: from this manner of bearing spring these advantages. First, a man may more easily see his enemy, and view what he does by the point of the corner, which is on the one side, and that is by the high point, by which, if he would behold his enemy, from the head to the feet, it is requisite that he carry his Target, so low, that he discover not too much of his body which is above it: to the warding whereof he cannot come again, but discommodiously, and in long time.

BEing desirous to beare great respect aswel to all the qualities of this Target (which are, the forme, the bignesse, and the heavines) as unto that wherwith it may either helpe or hurt, I saie (if a man would that the fourme thereof do bring him profit without hurt) it is to be holden with the high poynt therof upwards respecting the head: the parte opposit, the low partes of the bodie: the right parte therof, the right side, and the left, the left side: from this manner of bearing spring these advantages. First, a man may more easily see his enimie, and view what he doth by the point of his corner, which is on the one side, and that is by the high point, by which, if he woulde beholde his enimie, from the head to the feete, it is requisite that he carrie his Target, so lowe, that he discover not too much of his bodie which is above it: to the warding whereof he cannot come againe, but discommodiously, and in long time.

Many Deceits, Falses, and Wards, may be practiced in the handling of these weapons: All which I reserve to the treatise of Deceit or falsing, as unto his proper place, framing likewise in this all the rest, three ordinary wards, upon which, all the rest depend, and against which they may be opposed.

MAnie Deceites, Falses, and Wardes, may bee practised in the handling of these weapons: All which I reserve to the treatise of Deceite or falsing, as unto his proper place, framing likewise in this as in all the rest, three ordinarie wardes, upon which, all the rest depend, and against which they may be opposed.

The foresaid thrust may easily be warded, if in the very time that it comes it be encountered with the high point of the Target, but yet with that side which bends towards the right hand. And as soon as the enemy's sword is come one handful within the Target, it must be strongly beaten off by the Target towards the right hand, increasing the same instant a left pace. Then with as great an increase of a pace of the right foot as may be possible, a thrust underneath most be given, already prepared, because a man ought to stand at the low ward for the warding of the thrust abovehand.

THE foresaid thrust may easily be warded, if in the verie time that it commeth it be encountred with the high poynt of the Target, but with that side which bendeth towardes the right hand. And as soone as the enimies sworde is come one handfull within the Target, it must be strongly beaten off by the Target towardes the right hand, increasing the same instant a left pace. Then with as great an increase of a pace of the right foote as may be possible, a thrust underneath most be given, already prepared, because a man ought to stand at the lowe warde for the warding of the thrust abovehand.

In this ward likewise, the enemy may be invested on the point of the sword, by going forwards as straightly as is possible, and by striking quickly before the enemy. For the Target (whose charge is only to defend) is so great, that it may easily ward all edgeblows, and those chiefly which come from the knee upwards. Farther, when a blow is pretended to be delivered, it is manifest, that a thrust does enter by a more narrow straight than any edgeblow does. And therefore, when one would strike the enemy standing at the lock or low ward, he must remember that he approach as near him as he may possible: and being so near, that with his Target put forth one handful more forwards, he may beat away the enemy's sword, then by so beating of it, he shall increase a left pace, and presently after it, with the increase of the right foot, deliver him a thrust, if it so chance that at the first encounter he strike him not strongly.

IN this warde likewise, the enimie may be invested on the poynt of the sworde, by going forwardes as straightly as is possible, and by striking quickly before the enimie. For the Target (whose charge is onely to defend) is so great, that it may easily warde all edgeblowes, & those chiefly which come from the knee upwardes. Farther, when a blowe is pretended to be delivered, it is manifestly, that a thrust doth enter by a more narrowe straight than any edgeblowe doth. And therefore, when one woulde strike the enimie standing at the locke or lowe warde, he must remember that he approch as neere him as he may be possible: and being so neere, that with his Target put forth one handfull more forwards, he may beate awaie the enimies sworde, then by so beating of it, he shal encrease a left pace, and presently after it, with the increase of a pace of the right foote, deliver him a thrust, if it so chaunce that at the first encounter he strake him not strongly.

Standing at the low ward, one may ward and defend the thrust of the broad ward, diverse ways, among all which, there is one way, very easy and sure and thus is it.

STanding at the lowe ward, one may warde and defend the thrust of the broad warde, divers waies, among all which, there is one waie, verie easie and sure and thus it is.

There are many blows to be bestowed, standing at the low ward, all which I esteem as vain and to no purpose, considering the manifold and abundant defense of the Target. Therefore I will restrain myself unto two only which are very strong and hardly to be warded. And they are two thrusts, the one within, the other without, with the right foot both before and behind.

THere are manie blowes to be bestowed, standing at the lowe warde, all which I esteeme as vaine & to no purpose, considering the manifold and abundant defence of the Target. Therefore I will restraine my selfe unto two onely which are verie strong and hardly to be warded. And they are two thrustes, the one within, the other without, with the right foote both before and behinde.

For the warding of those two thrusts of the low ward, it is necessary, that a man stand at the same ward. And as the enemy comes resolutely determined to thrust within, he must as soon, or more readily then he, increase a left pace, and with the right side of his Target close in the enemy's sword, between it and his own sword, and then to enter perforce, and thrust either between the two Targets or else under them, with the increase of a pace of the right foot.

FOr the warding of those two thrustes of the lowe warde, it is necessarie, that a man stande at the same warde. And as the enimie commeth resolutely determined to thrust within, he must as soone, or more redily then he, encrease a left pace, and with the right side of his Target close in the enimies sword, between it and his own sworde, and then to enter perforce, & thrust either betweene the two Targets or els under them, with the increase of a pace of the right foote.

The round Target would require a long and most exquisite consideration because it is of circular form, most capable, and most perfect of all others. But for that my purpose in this my work, is to write that only which I know does appertain to this Art, giving leave to every man to busy himself in his own profession. And leaving a great part of this consideration to the Mathematicians and Historiographers to reason of his diverse qualities or passions, either who was inventor thereof, either, whether it be a weapon of antiquity, or of this our age, And coming to discourse of that, wherein it profits in this our time, (being a weapon so greatly honored and esteemed of Princes, Lords, and Gentlemen, that besides the use thereof in their affairs, as well by day as by night, they also keep their hoses richly decked and beautified therewith) And considering only that thing, in the round Target, among all weapons which may profit or hurt in the handling thereof, I say, that the said round Target has been diversely held, borne and used, by diverse men in diverse ages, aswell as the other square Target, and other weapons of defense, as well as of offense. And there want not also men in our time, who to the intent they be not wearied, bear it leaning on their thigh as though that in this exercise (in which only travail and pains are available) a man should only care for rest and quietness. For by the means of these two, strength and activity, (parts in the exercise of weapons, both important and necessary) are obtained and gotten.

THE round Target would require a long & most exquisite consideration because it is of cerculer forme, most capable, and most perfect of all others. But for that my purpose in this my worke, is to write that only which I know doth appertaine to this Arte, giving leave to every man to busie him selfe in his owne profession. And leaving a great part of this consideration to the Mathematicians & Historiographers to reason of his divers qualities or passions, either who was inventor thereof, either, whether it be a weapon of antiquitie, or of this our age, And comming to discourse of that, wherein it profiteth in this our time, (being a weapon sogreatly honoured and estemed of Princes, Lords, & Gentlemen, that besids thuse thereof in their affairs, as wel by day as by night, they also keepe their houses richly decked and beautified therewith,) And considering onely that thing, in the round Target, among al other weapons which may either profite or hurt in the handling thereof, I saie, that the said round Target hath beene diversely holden, borne and used, by divers men in divers ages, as well as the other square Target, and other weapons of defence, as well as of offence. And there want not also men in our time, who to the intent they be not wearied, beare it leaning on their thigh as though that in this exercise (in which only travaile and paines are availeable,) a man should onelie care for rest and quietnesse. For by meanes of these two, strength and activitie, (partes in the exercise of weapons, both important and necessarie) are obtained and gotten.

If a man would so bear the round Target, that it may cover the whole body, and yet nothing hinder him from seeing his enemy, which is a matter of great importance, it is requisite, that he bear it towards the enemy, not with the convex or outward part thereof, altogether equal, plain or even, neither to hold his arm so bowed, that in his elbow there be made (if not a sharp yet) at least a straight corner. For besides that (by so holding it) it wearies the arm: it likewise so hinders the sight, that if he would see his enemy from the breast downwards, of necessity he must abase his Target, or bear his head so peeping forwards, that it may be sooner hurt than the Target may come to ward it. And farther it so defends, that only so much of the body is warded, as the Target is big, or little more, because it cannot more then the half arm, from the elbow to the shoulder, which is very little, as every man knows or may perceive: So that the head shall be warded with great pain, and the thighs shall altogether remain discovered, in such sort, that to save the belly, he shall leave all the rest of the body in jeopardy. Therefore, if he would hold the said Target, that it may well defend all that part of the body, which is from the knee upwards, and that he may see his enemy, it is requisite that he bear his arm, if not right, yet at least bowed so little, that in the elbow there be framed so blunt an angle or corner, that his eyebeams passing near that part of the circumference of the Target, which is near his hand, may see his enemy from the head to the foot. And by holding the said convex part in this manner, it shall ward all the left side, and the circumference near the hand shall with the least motion defend the right side, the head and the thighs. And in this manner he shall keep his enemy in sight and defend all that part of the body, which is allotted unto the said Target. Therefore the said Target shall be born, the arm in a manner so straight towards the left side, that the eyesight may pass to behold the enemy without moving, for this only occasion, either the head, or the Target.

IF a man would so beare the rounde Target, that it may cover the whole bodie, and yet nothing hinder him from seeing his enimie, which is a matter of great importance, it is requisite, that he beare it towardes the enimie, not with the convexe or outward parte thereof, altogither equall, plaine or even, neither to holde his arme so bowed, that in his elbowe there be made (if not a sharpe yet) at least a straight corner. For besides that (by so holding it) it wearieth the arme: it likewise so hindereth the sight, that if hee would see his enimie from the brest downwardes, of necessitie he must either abase his Target, or beare his head so peeping forwardes, that it may be sooner hurt than the Target may come to warde it. And farther it so defendeth, that onely so much of the bodie is warded, as the Target is bigg, or little more, because it cannot more then the halfe arme, from the elbowe to the shoulder, which is verie little, as everie man knoweth or may perceive: So that the head shal be warded with great paine, and the thighes shal altogether remaine discovered, in such sort, that to save the bellie, he shal leave all the rest of the bodie in jeopardie. Therefore, if he would so holde the said Target, that it may well defend all that part of the bodie, which is from the knee upwardes, and that he maie see his enimie, it is requisite that he beare his arme, if not right, yet at least bowed so little, that in the elbowe there be framed so blunt an angle or corner, that his eyebeames passing neere that part of the circumference of the Target, which is neere his hande, may see his enimie from the head to the foot. And by holding the saide convexe parte in this manner, it shall warde all the left side, and the circumference neere the hande shall with the least motion defend all the right side, the head and the thighes. And in this maner he shall keepe his enimie in sight & defend all that parte of the body, which is allotted unto the said Target. Therefore the said Target shall be born, th arme in a manner so streight towards the left side, that the eyesight may passe to beholde the enimie without mooving, for this onely occasion, either the head, or the Target.

Because the round Target contains in it most great and sure defense, therefore ought not any edgeblow which may be easily warded with the single sword without the help of the Target be delivered. Thrusts also enter very difficultly to strike the body, because the Target, by means of the least motion that is, seems to be, as it were a wall before the body. And to thrust at the leg is no sure play. That which remains to be done, is to thrust forcibly with the sword: and when one perceives, that the point thereof is entered within the circumference of the enemy's Target, it is necessary that he increase a left pace, and with the circumference of his own Target, to beat off the enemy's sword and Target, to the end, it suffer the thrust so given of force to enter in. And (having so beaten and entered) to continue on the thrust in the straight line, with the increase of a pace of the right foot.

BEcause the round Target containeth in it most great & sure defence, therefore ought not any edgeblowe which may easily warded with the single sword without the helpe of the Target be delivered. Thrustes also enter verie difficultlie to strike the bodie, because the Target, by meanes of the lest motion that is, seemeth to be, as it were a wall before the bodie. And to thrust at the legge is no sure plaie. That which remaineth to be done is, to thrust forcibly with the sworde: and when one perceiveth, that the point therof is entred within the circumference of the enimies Target, it is necessary that he encrease a left pace, and with the circumference of his owne Target, to beat off the enimies sworde and Target, to the end, it suffer the thrust so given of force to enter in. And (having so beaten & entred) to continue on the thrust in the straight lyne, with the encrease of a pace of the right foote.

For the defending of the thrust of the high ward, it is most sure standing at the low ward, and to endeavor to overcome the enemy, by the same skill by the which he himself would obtain the victory. In the very same time, that he delivers his thrust, a man must suddenly increase a slope pace with the left foot, beating off the enemy's Target with his own, and driving of a thrust perforce with the increase of a pace of the right foot. And with this manner of defense being done with such nimbleness as is required, he does also safely strike the enemy, who cannot strike him again, because, by means of the said slope pace he is carried out of the line in the which the enemy pretended to strike.

FOr the defending of the thrust of the high warde, it is most sure standing at the lowe warde, and to endevour to overcome the enimie, by the same skill by the which he himselfe would obtaine the victorie. In the very same time, that he delivereth his thrust, a man must suddenly encrease a slope pace with the lefte foote, beating of the enimies Target with his owne, & driving of a thrust perforce with the increase of a pace of the right foote. And with this manner of defence being done with such nimblenesse as is required, hee doth also safely strike the enimie, who cannot strike him againe, because, by meanes of the saide slope pace he is carried out of the lyne in which the enimie pretended to strike.

It is very difficult to strike in this broad ward, if first with much compassing and gathering of the enemy, a man do not assay with the circumference of his Target near his hand, to beat off the enemy's sword. And being so beaten, to increase a left pace, and farther by adding thereunto the increase of a pace of the right foot, to discharge a thrust. But it shall happily be better in the handling of these weapons, not to use this broad ward: for the hand is borne out of the straight line, in the which he may strike both safely and readily: And before it return to said line, there is much time spent.

IT is verie difficulte to strike in this broad ward, if first with much compassing & gathering of the enimie, a man do not assaie with the circumference of his Target neere his hand, to beate off the enimies sworde. And being so beaten, to encrease a left pace, and farther by adding thereunto the increase of a pace of the right foote, to discharge a thrust. But it shall happely be better in the handling of these weapons, not to use this broad ward: for the hand is borne out of the straight lyne, in the which he may strike both safely and readily: And before it returne into the saide lyne, there is much time spent.

Because in every occasion or accident a man stands safe in the low ward, I will endeavor in this case, to place him also in the same ward, for the encountering of the hurt of the broad ward. That therefore which by mine advise he shall do, is that -eat heed, not to suffer his sword to be beaten off any manner of way. And when the enemy without this beating presumes to enter, he must in the self same time increase a left pace and safely deliver a thrust underneath with the increase of the right foot. And farther, when the enemy shall perform, that is, first find the sword and beat it off, (seeing of necessity if he would enter and hit home, his sword must pass by the circumference of the Target near the hand) then, to withstand the entry, it is requisite that he drive the enemy's sword outwards on the right side with his Target and with the increase of the said pace, that he enter and strike him.

BEcause in everie occasion or accident a man standeth safe in the lowe warde, I will endevour in this case, to place him also in the same warde, for the encountring of the hurt of the broad warde. That therefore which by mine advise he shall do, is that he take great heede, not to suffer his sworde to be beaten off any manner of waie. And when the enimie without this beating presumeth to enter, he must in the selfesame time increase a left pace & safely deliver a thrust underneath with the increase of the right foote. And farther, when the enimie shall perfourme, that is, first finde the sworde and beate it off, (seeing of necessitie if he would enter and hit home, his sword must passe by the circumference of the Target neere the hande) then, to withstande the entrie, it is requisite that hee drive the enimies sworde outwards on the right side with his Target and with the increase of the said pace, that he enter and strike him.

A man may strike in this ward, the right foot being behind, and before, and in both ways, he may bear his sword either within or without. If therefore he find himself to stand with the right foot behind and without, he shall assay at any hand, before he determine to strike, to find the enemy's sword with his own, and as soon as he finds it shall clap to his Target, and strike perforce with a low thrust, increasing with the right foot. But finding himself to stand within, no more with his sword, then he does with his Target, he shall prove whether he can find the enemy's sword, and having found it, shall strain it fast between his own sword and Target, and then shall deliver a thrust with the increase of a pace of the right foot, the which thrust of force speeds: This being performed, he shall settle himself in this, or in either of these ways in the low ward with the right foot before. And as he so stands in this ward, he may after the same sort strike either within or without.

A Man may strike in this ward, the right foote being behinde, and before, & in both waies, he may beare his sworde either within or without. If therefore he finde h imselfe to stande with the right foote behinde and without, he shall assaie at any hande, before he determine to strike, to finde the enimies sworde with his owne, and as soone as hee findes it shall clap to his Target, and strike perforce with a low thrust, encreasing with the right foote. But finding himselfe to stand within, no more with his sworde, then he doth with with his Target, he shall prove whether he can finde the enimies sworde, and having found it, shall straine it fast betweene his owne sworde and Target, & then shall deliver a thrust with the increase of a pace of the right foote, the which thrust of force speedeth: This being perfourmed, he shall settle himselfe in this, or in either of these waies in the lowe warde with the right foote before. And as he so standeth in this arde, he may after the same sorte strike either within or without.

All the foresaid thrusts are warded, by not suffering the sword to be found by the enemy with either of his weapons. For the enemy (not finding it, will not assure himself, or presume to enter, without first finding of the sword) may most easily be struck and not strike, if a man increase a slope pace, (to the end he may void his body from hurt,) and with the increase of a straight pace of the right foot, do also discharge a thrust beneath. And after this order he may strike safely, (not only when his sword is not found by the enemy, but also when it chances to be found) if he be ready and nimble to make his slope pace, and to beat off, as forcible as he may, the enemy's Target with his own sword and Target, thereby forcing a low thrust to enter in, with the increase of a pace with the right foot. And thus much concerning the true striking and defending of the sword and round Target.

AL the foresaid thrusts are warded, by not suffering the sworde to be found by the enimie with either of his weapons. For the enimie (not finding it, will not sasure himselfe, or presume to enter, without first finding of the sworde) may most easilie be stroken and not strike, if a man increase a slope pace, (to the end he may voide his bodie from hurt,) and with the increase of a straight pace of the right foote, do also discharge a thrust beneath. And after htis order he may strike safelie, (not onelie when his sword is not found by the enimie, but also when it chanceth to be found) if he be readie and nimble to make his slope pace, and to beate off, as forcible as he may, the enimies Target with his owne sword and Target, thereby forcing a low thrust to enter in, with the increase of a pace with the right foote. And thus much concerning the true striking & defending of the sword and round Target.

There are also used now adays, aswell in the schools, as in the lists, two Swords or Rapiers, admitted, and approved both of Princes, and of the professors of this art, for honorable and knightly weapons, albeit they be not used in the wars. Wherefore I shall not vary from my purpose, if I reason also of these, as far as is agreeable to true art. To him that would handle these weapons, it is necessary that he can aswell manage the left hand as the right, which thing shalbe (if not necessary) yet most profitable in every other kind of weapon. But in these principally he is to resolve himself, that he can do no good, without that kind of nimbleness and dexterity. For seeing they are two weapons, and yet of one self same kind, they ought equally and indifferently to be handled, the one performing that which the other does, and every of them being apt aswell to strike as defend. And therefore a man ought to accustom his body, arms and hands aswell to strike as defend. And he which is not much practiced and exercised therein, ought not to make profession of this Art: for he shall find himself to be utterly deceived.

It is most manifest that both these weapons may strike in one and the same time: for there may be delivered jointly together two downright edgeblows on high and two beneath: two reverses, and two thrusts, and are so rich and plentiful in striking, that it seems they may be used only to strike. But this ought not to be practiced, neither may it without great danger For all that, whatsoever may be done with either of them, is divided into striking and defending. That this is true, it may be perceived in the single Sword, which assays both to strike and defend. And those who have taken no such heed, but have been bent only to strike being moved either through cholera, either believing, that they had to deal with an ignorant person, have remained thereby mightily wounded. of this, there might be laid down infinite examples, which I leave to the intent I may not swerve from my purpose. I say therefore that of the two Rapiers which are handled, the one must be applied towards the other to strike, regarding always to use that first which wards, then that which strikes: for first a man must endeavor to defend himself, and then to strike others.

Presupposing always, that either hand is very well exercised, aswell in striking as in defending, this ward shalbe framed after two ways, which yet in manner is all one. The one with the right foot, and the other with the left, so working continually, that the hind arm be aloft, the former beneath in manner, as when the low ward is framed at single sword. And as a man strikes, he must always maintain and continue this high ward, which at the two rapiers, is the most perfect and surest and he may easily perform and do it: for whilst he enters to give a high thrust with his hind foot, although that foot be behind yet it must accompany the arm until it has finished his thrust, and settled itself in the low ward. The other sword and hand (which was borne together with the former foot in the low ward) remaining behind by reason of the increase of the high thrust, must presently be lifted placed in the same high ward.

The direct opposition and defense of the high ward is the low ward, the manner whereof shall be seen in his proper place. That which principally is to be considered (for the low ward also, in like sort as the other may be framed after two sorts) is this, that of necessity a man stand with the same foot before as the enemy does, to wit: if he bear the right foot before, to put forth the right foot also, and to endeavor as the enemy does, to stand without, for of both ways that is of the more advantage and safety. Finding himself therefore without, in the low ward, he must not refuse, but rather suffer his sword to be found and beaten by the enemy: for this does redown much more to his advantage then to his enemy's because the enemy carries small force in his low hand wherewith he endeavors to find and beat off the sword, considering it is borne to far off from the other: for that which is slenderly united, is less forcible: whereas standing at the low ward, he bears both his hands low near together and sufficiently strong. Therefore as soon as the enemy having beaten back the sword, shall resolve himself to give a thrust, he must increase a slope pace, and with his hind low sword, drive the enemy's high thrust outwards toward the right side, if it chance that he were in the low ward with his right foot before, And suddenly with the other low sword behind (which was suffered to be beaten off by the enemy, because it might turn the more to his disadvantage: for seeing the enemy's sword being slenderly united, as I have said before, carried but small force, it was the rather beaten off and disappointed: So that as soon as the slope pace is increased, and the said high thrust warded, before the enemy place his other sword also in the high ward, he may with the straight pace of the right foot deliver a low thrust continuing still to eat down the enemy's sword with his own low sword, that is borne before. And this manner of warding is most safe and sure: for besides that it strikes the enemy with the slope pace, it does likewise in such sort deliver the body from hurt, that of force the enemy is disappointed. Neither is there any other sure way to ward this high thrust, being so strong, and besides, having so great increase of pace.

This broad ward, may in the self same manner be framed two ways, and it may deliver the self same blows, in the one as in the other: This ward is framed with one foot before, and one foot behind, the arm (which is borne on the side of the hind foot) being stretched wide, and broad outwards. Therefore when one stands at this ward, and would deliver as straight and as safe a thrust as is possible, he shall first prove with his low Rapier, whether he can find his enemy's Rapier, which being found, he shall turn his fist outwards, and force the enemy's Rapier so much, that it may do no hurt, and then withall increasing presently a slope pace, shall go forwards to strike the enemy in the thigh, with the wide thrust. He might aswell also thrust him in the flank, or in the head, but yet the other thrust is used, because the Rapier, which is directed to the thigh, is in place, to hinder the enemy's other Rapier to light on the legs.

The low ward shall be framed after two ways, the one with the right foot before, the other with the left, and each of them may strike, either within, either without. The way which strikes within, has one blow, the way which strikes without has two, and in all, they are six. I will lay down but three, because they differ not from the other three, but only in the hand and foot, which must be place before, so that they are the self same, for I have already presupposed, that he who takes upon him to handle these weapons, can aswell use the one hand, as he can the other. He may therefore find himself to stand with his right foot before and within, (I understand by within, when he bears one of his swords between both his enemy's swords, and likewise when the enemy carries one of his, between the other two. It is likewise true, that this also may be said within, to wit, when both weapons are borne in the middle between the other two. But I suppose no man so foolish, who handling these weapons, will suffer both his swords to be without, being a very unsure ward whereof I leave to speak.

All three thrusts of the low ward, by standing at the same ward, may easily be warded, and that after one manner. If a man remember first to void his body from hurt, by the increase of a pace, that is very slope, or crooked, either before the enemy comes thrusting, either as soon as he moves himself for the same purpose, or if he be active and nimble to traverse, and in defending himself to strike the enemy.

The two hand Sword, as it is used now a days being four handfuls in the handle, or more, having also the great cross, was found out, to the end it should be handled one to one at an equal match, as other weapons, of which I have entreated. But because one may with it (as a galleon among many galleys) resist many Swords, or other weapons: Therefore in the wars, it is used to be place near unto the Ensign or Ancient, for the defense thereof, because, being of itself able to contend with many, it may the better safeguard the same. And it is accustomed to be carried in the City, aswell by night as by day, when it so chances that a few are constrained to withstand a great many. And because his weight and bigness, requires great strength, therefore those only are allotted to the handling thereof, which are mighty and big to behold, great and strong in body, of stout and valiant courage. Who (forasmuch as they are to encounter many, and to the end they may strike the more safely, and amaze them with the fury of the Sword) do altogether use to deliver great edge blows, down right and reversed, fetching a full circle, or compass therein, staying themselves sometimes upon one foot, sometimes on the other, utterly neglecting to thrust, and persuading them- selves, that the thrust serves to amaze one man only, but those edge blows are of force to encounter many. The which manner of skirmishing, besides that, it is most gallant to behold, being accompanied with exceeding swiftness in delivery, (for otherwise it works no such effect) it also most profitable, not properly of itself, because men considering the fury of the sword, which greatly amazes them, are not so resolute to do that, which otherwise they could not choose but do. That is, either to encounter the sword in the middle towards the handle, when it carries small force, or else to stand far off, watching whilst the sword goes, and is carried compassing in his great circle, being of the compass of ten arms, or more, and then to run under it, and deliver a thrust. And these two ways are effectual, when such men are met withal, who are exercised to enter nimbly and strike, or such as dare, and have the spirit and courage, to set, and oppose themselves single against the two hand sword, even as the single two hand sword adventures to oppose itself against many. Neither is this thing to be marveled at, for in these our days, there be things performed of greater activity and danger. And there be some which dare do this with the sword and round Target, but yet they are not resolute to strike first, but will receive and sustain the blow, with the round Target, and then enter and thrust, this truly betokens great courage and activity, although not such is required in this behalf.

To those, who would cunningly handle the Two hand Sword in single combat, it is principally necessary that (as in other weapons) they be practiced and have the skill, to use the one hand aswell as the other, and they both be active in body, and strong in the arms, which are required in the managing of each weapon. And farther it is requisite that they carry the principles of this Art, surely fixed in their minds and memories, by means whereof they may become bold and resolute, in as much as they have to do, either in striking or defending.

The low ward, shall be the defense of the high ward, and it may be framed with the right foot before and behind, in such sort, as the said high ward, the which shall be declared in his proper place.

Because the broad ward in handling of this weapon is painful and unsure, I leave speak thereof, and come to the low ward, which is framed two ways, to wit: either with the right or with the left foot before, and in either way, one may strike both within and without. Within, is rather to ward, then to strike: for the enemy that stands without, has the greater advantage. Finding himself therefore within, and bearing the sword firmly, he shall force and drive on a thrust, as far as both arms may stretch out together, increasing a pace and settling in the low ward, if he do not speed.

It is a general rule, that the true defense of all blows is the low ward. Therefore, when one stands thereat, if there come a thrust without (because it is necessary in this case to stand within,) he shall do no other then encounter the enemy's sword, and thrust his arm forwards, to the end he may void it from his body, and farther retire his foot more backwards, and as it were, in a compass, thereby the better saving his body from hurt.

Because it may seem strange unto many, that I have here placed these iiii. sorts of weapons together, as though I would frame but one only way for the handling of all, although they differ in form, from which form is gathered their difference in use. Therefore, forasmuch as I am of opinion, that all of them may be handled in manner after one way, it shall not be amiss, if I declare the reason thereof, speaking first of every one severally by itself, and then generally of all together, holding and maintaining always for my conclusion, that the skill of handling of them, helps a man to the knowledge of all the rest, for as much as concerns true Art.

BEcause it may seeme strange unto many, that I have here placed these iiij sortes of weapons together, as though I woulde frame but one only waie for the handling of all, although they differ in forme, from which form is gathered their difference in use. Therefore, forasmuch as I am of opinion, that all of them may be handled in manner after one waye, it shall not be amisse, if I declare the reason thereof, speaking first of every one severally by it selfe, and then generally of all togither, holding and maintaining alwaies for my conclusion, that the skill of handling of them, helpeth a man to the knowledge of all the rest, for as much as concerneth true Arte.

Coming therefore to the Partisan, as unto the plainest, as unto that, whereupon all the rest depend, omitting to show who was the inventor thereof, as being to small purpose: I say, that it was found out to no other end, then for that the foot men in the wars, might be able with them to hurt those horsemen (whom they might not reach with their swords) aswell with their point as with their edge. Further, weapons which are to be cast, or sprung forth at the length of the arm, are for the most part deceitful, by means whereof, they might hurt aswell the Archers on horseback, as other horsemen.

COmming therefore to the Partesan, as unto the plainest, and as unto that, whereupon all the rest depend, omitting to shewe who was the inventer thereof, as being to small purpose: I saie, that it was found out to no other end, then for that the foot men in the warres, might be able with them to hurt those horsemen (whome they might not reach with their swords) aswell with their point as with their edge. Further, weapons which are to be cast, or sprong forth at the length of the arme, are for the most part deceitfull, by meanes whereof, they might hurt aswell the Archers on horsebacke, as other horsemen.

Forasmuch, as the Bill and Halberd, have the self same of- fense and defense, and be of one length: I thought it not good to make two Treatises thereof, because I should be forced to repeat the self same thing in both, the which, being superfluous, would breed loathsomeness. I say therefore, that whosoever would handle the Bill or Halberd, which being all one, I will name indifferently, by the name of the Halberd, I say, to him that would use them, and strike aswell with the point, as with the edge, which blows at these weapons are mighty and forcible, it is necessary, that he consider the difficulty in striking with the point, and the danger in striking with the edge. That it is difficult to strike with the point, it is most clear, because the full course of the point, may very easily be hindered and tied, by means of so many hooks and forks which are in the Halberd.

FOrasmuch, as the Bill and Holberd, have the selfe same offence and defence, and be of one length: I thought it not good to make two Treatises thereof, because I should be forced to repeat the selfesame thing in both, the which, being superfluous, would breed loathsomenes. I say therefore, that whosoever would handle the Bill or Holberd, which beeing all one, I will name indifferently, by the name of the Holberd, I say, to him that would use them, & strike aswell with the point, as with the edge, which blowes at these weapons are mightie and forcible, it is necessarie, that he consider the difficultie in striking with the point, and the daunger in striking with the edge. That it is difficult to strike with the point, it is most cleere, because the full course of the point, may verie easilie be hindered and tyed, by meanes of so many hookes and forkes which are in the Holberd.

In the handling of this weapon, there shall be framed (by my counsel) no more than one ward, bearing the hands, for the more surety in the middle of the staff. And that ward must be the low ward. The hands must be somewhat distant, one from an other, and the point of the weapon directly towards the enemy, regarding always to place himself with the contrary foot before, to that, which the enemy shall set forth, that is to say: If the enemy be before with the left foot, then to stand with the right foot, or contrary wise. And standing in manner aforesaid, he must always prove and try (before he be determined to deliver a thrust) to beat off the enemy's weapon, which being done, presently deliver a forcible thrust toward the enemy. But because it may lightly so fall out, that in beating off the enemy's weapon ( the enemy happily pretending to do the like) the weapons be entangled fast together. Therefore, as soon perceived that they be grappled fast, standing sure, and firmly on his feet, he shall increase a pace towards the enemy, lifting up aloft the enemy's weapon, together with his own by the force of the said entangling, and then with the heel, or blunt end of the Halberd shall strike the enemy in the breast, (for which consideration it should not dislike me, if for that purpose, there shall be fastened in the said blunt end, a strong and sharp pike of iron) and as soon as he has stroked with the said blunt end, (because, by means of the said lifting up, the weapons shall now be unhooked) and retiring that pace which he had before increased, without removing of his hands, he shall deliver a strong edge blow, which is then very commodious.

IN the handling of this weapon, there shall be framed (by my counsel) no more than one ward, bearing in the hands, for the more suretie in the middle of the staffe. And that ward must be the lowe ward. The hands must be somewhat distant, one from an other, and the point of the weapon directlie towards the enimie, regarding alwaies to place himselfe with the contrarie foote before, to that, which the enimie shall set forth, that is to say: Yf the enimie be before with the left foote, then to stand with his right foote, or contrarie wise. And standing in maner aforesaid, he must alwaies prove & trie (before he be determined to deliver a thrust) to beat off the enimies weapon, which being done, presently deliver a forcible thrust toward the enimie. But because it may lightly so fall out, that in beating off the enimies weapon (the enimie happelie pretending to do the like) the weapons be intangled fast together. Therefore, as soone as it is perceaved that they be grappled fast, standing sure, and firmelie on his feete, he shall increase a pace towardes the enimie, lifting up aloft the enimies weapon, together with his owne by force of the said intangling, and then with the heele, or the blunt end of the Holberd shall strike the enimie in the brest, (for which consideration it should not dislike me, if for that purpose, there be fastned in the said blunt end, a strong and sharpe pike of iron) and as soone as he hath stroken with the said blunt end, (because, by meanes of the said lifting upp, the weapons shall b e now unhooked) and retyring that pace which he had before increased, without removing of his hands, he shall deliver a strong edge blow, which then is verie commodious.

For the defense of the abovesaid two blows, it is requisite as I have already said, that a man stand with the contrary foot before, to that, of the enemy's. And as the enemy (after the fastening of the weapons) endeavors to lift them up, (being well awares thereof) he ought to recover his Halberd by the increase of a pace, and strike with the heel at the enemy's thigh or belly, and then changing his hands, he shall deliver an edge blow, without any other retiring of himself, or moving of his hands, The which blow shall lightly speed, being nimbly delivered. And when it speeds not, yet, it will safely ward the edge blow, which the enemy shall give. And this may suffice for asmuch as concerns the blows of the Halberd in single combat, wherein there is any difficulty to be found, the which, a man must seek to avoid by all means, especially endeavoring by all possible ways to deliver thrusts, without tying or entangling of his weapon. But although the enemy's weapon, may not be tied to any prescript law or order, (for he also uses, all the policy he may to avoid danger) yet these blows with their fastenings are laid down, because I presuppose, that who so is skillful to strike, notwithstanding these difficulties, will be much more adventurous, in striking when he shall find little, or nothing to hinder him, As for example, when in fight he meets with a weapon of the Staff of the self same, or of greater length, but yet, void of hooks or forks: For seeing his own weapon, is only able to hook, and drive outwards the enemy's weapon, he may safely deliver an edge blow, with the increase of a pace, being sure, that he may not be stroked again, but only with a thrust, which the enemy may not deliver, but of force, must either retire his staff, either his feet, under which time, an edge blow may be delivered without danger.

FOr the defence of the abovesaid two blowes, it is requisite as I have alreadie said, that a man stand with the contrarie foote before, to that, of the enimies. And as the enimie (after the fastning of the weapons) endevoreth to lift them upp, (being well awares therof) he ought to recover his Holberd by the increase of a pace, and strike with the heele at the enimies thigh or bellie, and then chaunging his handes, he shall deliver an edge b low, without any other retyring of him selfe, or moving of his hands, The which blow shall lightlie speede, being nimblie delivered. And when it speedeth not, yet, it will safelie ward the edge blow, which the enimie shall give. And this may suffice for asmuch as concerneth the blowes of the Holberd in single combat, wherein there is anie difficultie to be found, the which, a man must seeke to avoide by all meanes, especiallye endevouryng by all possible wayes to deliver thrustes, without tying or intangling of his weapon. But although the enimies weapon may not be tyed to any prescript law or order, (for he also useth, all the pollicie he may to avoid daunger) yet these blowes with their fastnings are laid downe, because I presuppose, that who so is skilfull to strike, notwithstanding these difficulties, will be much more adventrous, in striking when he shall find little, or nothing to hinder him, As for example, when in fight he meetheth with a weapon of the Staffe of the selfesame, or of a greater length, but yet, void of hookes or forkes: For seeing his owne weapon, is onlie hable to hooke, and drive outwards the enimies weapon, he may savelie deliver an edge blow, with the increase of a pace, being sure, that he may not be stroken againe, but onelie with a thrust, which the enimie may not deliver, but of force, must either retyre his staffe, either his feete, under which time, an edge blow may be delivered without daunger.

The self same ward, shalbe framed with the Javelin, as with the Halberd. And because, of necessity, the weapons will be entangled, I say, the very same thrusts shall be given therewith, as are delivered with the Halberd. And because the edge of the Javelin is weak, and the pacing which is made when the weapons are fastened, is only profitable for the giving of the edge blow: Therefore in handling of the Javelin, this entangling or fastening is by all means possible to be avoided. But when a man is to strike his enemy, let him first prove, to beat off his Javelin, and then to force on a thrust, in this manner.

THe selfe same ward, shalbe framed with the Javelyn, as with the Holberd. And because, of necessitie, the weapons will be intangled, I say, the verie same thrusts shal be given therwith, as are delivered with the Holberd. But because the edge of the Javelyn is weake, and the pacing which is made when the weapons are fastned, is onelie profitable for the giving of the edge blow: Therfore in handling of the Javeling, this intangling or fastning is by al means possible to be avoided. But when a man is to strike his enimie, let him first prove, to beat off his Javelyn, and then to force on a thrust, in this maner.

For him that would defend himself from those two thrusts, and strike under them, it is necessary to call to remembrance the most subtle consideration of times, without knowledge whereof, there is no man that may safely bear himself under any weapon: Coming therefore to the said consideration, I say, that if the enemy would beat of the Javelin, (his own Javelin being either within, either without) of force he must enlarge and widen it from out the straight line, if he would as aforesaid forcibly beat off the other Javelin. Therefore at what time soever a man sees the enemy's Javelin wide of the straight line, then, and in the same time (in the which it comes purposing to beat off) he must nimbly deliver a thrust. And in like manner, finding himself, either within, either without, and the enemy's Javelin something wide of the straight line, then before it come into the said line again, he shall with the increase of a pace deliver a thrust, at the length of the hinder arm, and then retiring his said pace, settle himself at his ward again.

FOr him that would defend himselfe from those two thrusts, and strike under them, it is necessarie to call to remembraunce the most subtill consideration of times, without knowledge whereof, there is no man that may safelie beare himselfe under anie weapon: Comming therefore to the said consideration, I saie, that if the enimie would beate of the Javelyn, (his owne Javelyn being either within, either without) of force hee must enlarge and widen it from out the straight lyne, if he would as aforesaid forciblie beat off the other Javelyn. Therefore at what time soever a man seeth the enimies Javelyn wide of the straight lyne, then, and in the same time (in the which it commeth purposing to beat off) he must nimblie deliver a thrust. And in like maner, finding himselfe, either within, either without, and the enimies Javelyn something wide of the straight lyne, then before it come into the said lyne againe, he shall with the increase of a pace deliver a thrust, at the length of the hinder arme, and then retyring his said pace, settle himselfe at his ward againe.

If any would handle the Partisan in single combat, they shall not strike with the edge, because the time is too long, and they may easily be stroked under the same. Therefore practicing the thrust, they shall use the self same offense and defense, which I have showed in the Javelin, to the which I refer them.

IF any would handle the Partisan in single combat, they shall not strike with the edge, because the time is too long, and they may easilie be stroken under the same. Therefore practizing the thrust, they shall use the selfe same offence and defence, which I have shewed in the Javelyn, to the which I referre them.

As among all other weapons, which are worn by the side, the single sword is the most honorable, as being such a one which is left capable of deceit of any other: So among the weapons of the Staff, the Pike is the most plain, most honorable, and most noble weapon of all the rest.

AS among all other weapons, which are worn by the side, the single sword is the most honorable, as beeing such a one which is left capable of deceit of any other: So among the weapons of the Staffe, the Pike is the most plaine, most honorable, and most noble weapon of all the rest.

This renowned weapon has been of diverse diversely handled, in single combat: (for in the manner of using it in the wars, makes not at this present for my purpose.) Therefore it shall not be amiss, if (speaking of the manner of his use in these our days) I declare also mine opinion concerning the same. There have been some (who greatly regarding ease and little pain) would have the Pike to be borne in the middle. other some, more strong of arm, but weaker of heart, (to the end they might be the farther off, from hurt) accustomed to bear it at the beginning near the heel or blunt end thereof: which two ways in my judgment are to be refused, the one being too dangerous (I mean, the bearing of it in the middle) the other too difficult (I mean, the bearing it at the blunt end,) because a man is not able to stand long at his ward, neither to defend himself strongly, not offend safely, considering, much of his force is taken away, by sustaining and bearing it at the said end. So that, when a forcible blow comes he has not sufficient power to beat it off. And forasmuch as the Pike is a long straight line, which has his motion in the head or beginning thereof, which motion be it never so small, near the hand, is yet very great at the point, it is requisite, if he would strike just and straight, (when he so holds it at the end) that he be greatly practiced, and have great strength whereby he may be both skillful and able to bear it so just and even, that the point thereof strike or hit there where the hand and eye would have it. This is very hardly accomplished, aswell because it is a thing impossible to strike by the straight line, as also for that the arms being weakened with the place of the Pike, do shake and deliver it unsteadfastly. Therefore, for the avoiding of these two inconveniences, the Pike must be born within an arms length of the said heel or blunt end, in which place, it is sufficiently distant from hurt, and it is not borne with much difficulty if the hands be placed an arms length one from another of the which the hinder hand must be steadfast, I mean, hold the Pike hard, and the forehand somewhat loose: So that the Pike may shift thorough it to and fro.

THis renowmed weapon hath beene of divers diversly handled, in single combat: (for the manner of using it in the warres, maketh not at this present for my purpose.) Therefore it shall not be amisse, if (speaking of the manner of his use in these are daies) I declare also mine opinion concerning the same. There have beene some (who greatly regarding ease & little paine) would have the Pike to be borne in the middle. Other some, more strong of arme, but weaker of hart, (to the end they might be the farther off, from hurte) accustomed to beare it at the beginning neere the heele or blunt end thereof: which two waies in my judgement are to be refused, the one being too daungerous (I meane the bearing of it in the middle) the other too difficult (I mean, the bearing it at the blunt end,) because a man is not able to stande long at his ward, neither to defend himselfe strongly, nor offend safely, considering, much of his force is taken away, by ststeining and bearing it at the said end. So that, when a forcible blow commeth he hath not sufficient power to beat it off. And forasmuch as the Pike is a long straight lyne, which hath his motion in the head or beginning thereof, which motion be it never so finall, neere the hand, is yet verie great at the point, it is requisite, if he would strike just and straight, (when he so holdeth it at the end) that he be greatly practised, and have great strength whereby he may be both skilfull & able to beare it so just & even, that the point thereof strik or hit there where the hand & eie would have it. This is verie hardly accomplished, aswel beecause it is a thing impossible to strike by the straight lyne, as also for that the armes being weakened with the paize of the Pike, do shake and deliver unstedfastly. Therefore, for the avoyding of these two inconveniences, the Pike must be born within an armes length of the said heele or blunt end, in which place, it is sufficiently distant from hurt, & it is not borne with much difficultie if the hands be placed an armes length one from another of the which the hinder hand must be stedfast, I meane, holde the Pike harde, and the forehand somewhat lookse: So that the Pike may shift through it to and fro.

It is most manifest, that the Pike makes greater passage with his point than any other weapon: and the two hand sword, more then the ordinary sword: and the sword more then the dagger. And among all weapons, this is generally true, that the longer the weapon is, the greater the passage it makes with the point, and the greater blow with the edge. Neither does this so chance, because the weapon is more heavy, neither because there is applied more force unto it in action, as most men suppose, but rather through a natural cause which is as follows.

IT is most manifest, that the Pike maketh greater passage with his point than any other weapon: and the twohand sworde, more then the ordinarie sword: & the sword more then the dagger. And among al weapons, this is generally true, that the longer the weapon, the greater passage it maketh with the point, and the greater blow with the edge. Neither doeth this so chaunce, because the weapon is more heavie, neither because there is applyed more force unto it in action, as most men suppose, but rather through a naturall cause which is as followeth.

In mine opinion, if a man would either strike, or defend with the Pike, he may not otherwise use it then by the framing of two wards, in one of which, he shall then strike the body from the middle upwards, & this I will term the low ward: the other shall strike the body from the middle downwards, & shalbe called the high ward. Neither shall they be so termed for any other cause, then for that it is very necessary for him that strikes, first to beat off the enemy's Pike, & then to deliver his own. But yet it should breed great inconvenience, & there would be two much time spent if finding it good & commodious to strike in the low ward, he would first beat off the enemy's weapon, & then shift from the low to the high ward. For that cause I will frame the high ward, which shall be, when one bears his arms high, & the point of the Pike low. And the low ward is, when the arms are low, & the point of the Pike high. There is another ward which would be framed as a mean between these two, & that is, when the Pike is borne directly towards the enemy. And it falls out that is most sure & long, when it is opposed against any of the other two aforesaid, because then a man is in case both to beat off the weapon & to enter therewithall with great advantage. But putting the case, the enemy do likewise directly oppose himself against this ward, then the Pikes may not beat off one another, but both parties are like to be invested & run through at one instant, without any defense or warding thereof. So that this straight ward may not be used except it be against one of the two aforesaid. And when the enemy stands in any of the said two, then a man must resolutely bring his weapon into the said straight ward, for as he gets thereby the greater advantage both of length & time, so he may very easily beat off the enemy's Pike.

IN mine opinion, if a man would either strike, or defend with the Pike, he may not otherwise use it then by framing of two wardes, in one of which, he shal strike the bodie from the middle upwards, & this I will terme the low warde: the other shall strike the bodie from the middle downwadrs, & shalbe called the high ward. Neither shalthey be so termed for any other cause, then for that it is verie necessarie for him that striketh, first to beat off the enimies Pike, & then to deliver his owne. But yet it should breed great inconvenience, & there would be two much time spent if finding it good & commodious to strike in the lowe warde, he would first beat off the enimies weapon, & then shift from the lowe to the high warde, which shal bee, when one beareth his armes high, & the point of the Pike low. And the low warde is, when the armes are low, & the point of the Pike high. There is another warde which would be framed as a meane betweene these two, & that is, when the Pike is borne directly towards the enimie. And it falleth out that it is most sure & long, when it is opposed against any of the other two aforesaid, because then a man is in case both to beat off the weapon & to enter therewithall with great advantage. But putting the case, the enimie do likewise directly oppose himselfe against this warde, then the Pikes may not beat off one another, but both parties are like to be invested & runne through at one instant, without any defence or warding thereof. So that this straight ward may not be used except it be against one of the two aforesaid. And when the enimie standeth in any of the said two, then a man must resolutely bring his weapon into the said straight ward, for as he getteth therby the greater advantage both of length & time, so he may very easily beat off the enimies Pike.

When the enemy is in the low ward, a man ought always tostand either at the high or straight ward. And contrarily, in the low or straight ward, when the enemy is in the high ward. And must endeavor as forcibly and as nimble as he may, first of all, to beat off the enemy's Pike, whether it be within or with- out, but yet in such sort, that he depart not much from the straight line, and thereby be constrained, to spend much time in returning thither again, And as soon as he has beaten off the enemy's weapon, to thrust, bearing his body contrary to his arms, to the end, he may be the more covered from the thrusts, and deliver his own thrusts with the more force, always regarding in the high ward, to thrust downwards, and in the low ward, upwards, & in the straight ward, in the middle: for in this manner of thrusting, is very commodious, and consumes little time.

WHen the enimie is in the low ward, a man ought alwayes to stand either at the high or straight ward. And contrarilie, in the low or straight ward, when the enimie is in the high ward. And must indevour as forciblie and as nimblie as he may, first of all, to beat off the enimies Pike, whether it be within or without, but yet in such sort, that he depart not much from the straight lyne, and be therby constrayned, to spend much time in returning thither againe, And as soone as he hath beaten off the enimies weapon, to thrust, bearing his bodie contrarie to his armes, to the end, he may be the more covered from the thrustes, and deliver his owne thrusts with the more force, alwaies regarding in the high ward, to thrust downewards, and in the low ward, upwards, & in the straight ward, in the middle: for this maner of thrusting, is verie commodious, and consumeth little time.

The hurts of these wards, are defended in the self same manner, as those of the Javelin are, to which Chapter, (having there reasoned sufficiently) I refer you, to the intent I may not repeat one thing often.

THe hurts of these wardes, are defended in the selfe same maner, as those of the Javelyne are, to which Chapter, (having htere reasoned sufficiently) I referre you, to the intent I may not repeat one thing often.

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:

BEinge come to the end of the true Arte, and having declared all that which seemed convenient and profitable for the attaynement of true judgement in the handling of the weapon & of the entire knowledg of al advatages, by the which as well al disadvantages are knowen: It shall be good that I intreat of Deceite or Falsing, aswel to performe my promise, as also to satisfie those who are greatly delighted to skirmish, not with pretence to hurt or over come, but rather for their exercise & pastime:

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.

AS I take not Victorie to be the end and scope of falsing, but rather nimblenes of bodie and dexteritie in plaie: So, casting aside the consideration how a man is either covered or discovered, and how he hath more or less advantage) I saie that there maie be framed at the single sword so manie wards, as there be waies how to move the arme hand and foot.

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.

BEcause it chaunceth commonly, that in managing of the handes, men beare no great regard, either to time or advantage, but do endevour themselves after divers & sundry waies & meanes to encounter the enemies sword: therfore in these cases, it is verie profitable to knowe how to strike, and what may be done in shortest time.

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.

AL the wardes which are laide downe for the single sword, may likewise be given for the sworde and dagger. And there is greater reason why they should be termed wardes in the handling of this, than of the single sword, because albeit the sword is borne unorderly, & with such disadvantage, that it wardeth in a maner no parte of the bodie, yet there is a dagger which continually standeth at his defence, in which case, it is not convenient that a man lift up both his armes and leave his bodie open to the enimie: for it is neither agreeable to true, neither to false arte considering that in each of them the endevor is to overcome. And this manner of lifting up the armes, is as if a man wold of purpose be overcome: Therefore, when in this deceitfull and false arte, one is to use two weapons, he must take hede that he beare the one cotinually at his defence, and to handle the other everie waye to molest the enimie: somtime framing one warde, somtimes an other: and in each of them to false, that is to faine a thrust, and deliver a thrust, to false a thrust, and give an edge-blowe: and otherwise also, to false an edge-blowe, and to deliver an edge-blowe. And in all these wayes to remember, that the blowe be continually different from the false: That is, if the thrust be falsed above to drive it home belowe: If within, yet to strike it without, and falsing an edgeblowe above, to bestowe it beneath: or falsing a right blowe, to strike with the reverse: or sometimes with a right blowe, but yet differing from the other. And after an edgeblowe on high, to deliver a reverse belowe. In fine, to make all such mixture of blowes, as may beare all these contrarieties following, to wit, the point, the edge, high, lowe, right, reversed, within, without. But, I see not howe one may practise any deceit with the dagger, the which is not openly daungerous. As for example, to widen it and discover some part of the bodie to the enemie, thereby provoking him to move, and then warding, to strike him, being so disapointed: but in my opinion, these sortes of falses of discovering the bodie, ought not to be used: For it behoveth a man, first, safely to defend himselfe, and then to offend the enimie, the which he cannot do, in the practise of the said falses, if he chaunce to deale with an enimie that is couragious and skilfull. But this manner of falsing next following, is to be practised last of all other, and as it were in desperate cases. And it is, either to faine, as though he would forcibly fling his dagger at the enemies face, (fro the which false, he shal doubtles procure the enemie to warde himselfe, either by lifting up his armes, or by retyring himself, or by moving towards one side or other, in which travaile & time, a man that is verie warie and nimble, may safely hurt him:) or els in steede of falsing a blowe, to fling the dagger in deede at the enimies face. In which chaunce or occasion, it is necessarie that he have the skill how to sticke the dagger with the poynt. But het howsoever it chaunce, the comming of the dagger in such sort, doth so greatly trouble and disorder the enemie, that if a man step in nimbly, he may safely hurt him.

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.

FOR to desceyve the enimie with the cloake, it is necessarie to know how many waies it may serve the turne, and to be skilfull how to fould it orderly about the arme, and how to take advantage by the largenes thereof: and farther to understand how to defend, and how to offend and hinder the enimie therewith, because it fales not out alwaies, that men fight with their cloake wrapped about the arme, and the sword in hand, Therefore it is the parte of a wise man, to knowe also how to handle the cloake after any other manner.

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.

BEing of opinion that as touching deceite, 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 laide downe and declared in the true arte, in the consideration of the forme of each of them: Therefore I am willing rather to restraine my selfe, then to indevoure to fill the leafe with the idle repetition of one thing twice.

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.

EVerie time that one useth to false with round Target, square Target, and buckler, or as I may better saie, with the sword accompanied with them, he falseth either an edge-blowe, either a thrust, either leaveth some parte of the bodie before discogered. Against all the falces of the edge, which come from the knee upwards, the round Target or any of the rest, must be oppressed, and then suddenly them a thrust be delivered, against that parte which is most disarmed. But if blowes come from the knee downwardes, they of force must be encountred with the sword, and alwaies with the false, or backe edge thereof, whether that the blowe be right or reversed: & therewithall the enimies legge must be cutt with the edge prepared without moving either the feete or bodie. And this manner of striking is so shorte that it safely spedeth. Moreover, all thrusts and other edgeblowes, aswell high as lowe may, naie rather ought to be warded, by accompaning the target or other weapon of defence with the sword, whose poynt would be bent towards the enimie, & as soone as the enimies sword is encountred, if it be done with the false edge of the sword, there is no other to be done, then to cut his face or legges.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

IF nature had bestowed strength upon men (as manie beleeve) in such sorte as she hath given sight, hearing, and other sences, which are such in us, that they may not by our endevour either be encreased, or diminished, it should be no lesse superfluous, then ridiculus to teach howe strength should be obtained, then it were if one should say, he would instruct a m an how to heare and see better then he doth alreadie by nature. Neither albeit he that becommeth a Painter or a Musition seeth the proportions much better then he did before, or by hearing lerneth the harmonie and conformitie of voices which he knew not, ought it therefore be saide, that he seeth or hereth more then he did? For that procedeth not of better hearing or seeing, but of seeing and hearing with more reason. But in strength it doth not so come to passe: For it is manifestlie seene, than a man of ripe age and strength, cannot lift upp a waight to daie which he canne doe on the morrowe, or some other time. But contrarie, if a man prove with the selfe same sight on the morroe or some other time to see a thing which yesterday he sawe not in the same distance, he shall but trouble him selfe in vaine, and be in daunger rather to see lesse then more, as it commonlie happeneth to studentes and other such, who do much exercise their sight. Therefore there is no doubt at all but that mans strength may be encreased by reasonable exersise, 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 Horse-backe, and yet are not able by a great deale to beare so great a burthen as a Cuntrie man or Porter: But contrarie in running and leaping, the Porter and Cuntrieman are most slow and heavie, neither know they howe to vawte upon their horse without a ladder. And this procedeth of no other cause, then for that everie man is not exercised in that which is most esteemed: So that if in the managing of these weapons, a man would gette strength, it shalbe convenient for him to exercise himselfe in such sort as shalbe declared.

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.

YET a man be never so strong and lustie, yet he shall deliver a blowe more slowe and with less force than an other shall who is lesse strong, but more exercised: & without doubt he shall so werie his armes, handes and bodie, that he cannot long endure to labour in any such busines. And there hath beene manie, who by reason of such sudden wearines, have suddenlie dispaired of themselves, giving over the exercise of the weapon, as not appertaining unto them. Wherein they deceie themselves, for such wearines is vanquished by exercise, by meanes whereof it is not long, but that the bodie feete & armes are so strengthened, that heavie things seem light, & that they are able to handle verie nimblie anie kinde of weapon, and in briefe overcome all kind of difficulty and hardnesse. Therefore when one would exrecise his armes, to the entent to gette strength, he must endevour continuallie to overcome wearines, resolving himselfe in his judgement, that paines is not caused, through debilitie of nature, but rather hangs about him, because he hath not accustomed to exercise his members thereunto.