Girolamo Cavalcabo

Girolamo Cavalcabo
Born	16th century Bologna, Italy
Died	17th century London, England? (?)
Relative(s)	Zachara Cavalcabo (father?)
Occupation	Fencing master
Influences	Angelo Viggiani dal Montone
Influenced	André des Bordes (?)
Genres	Fencing manual
Language	Italian Middle French Early New High German
Notable work(s)	Traité ou instruction pour tirer des armes (1597)
Manuscript(s)	MS Italien 1527 (1580s)

Girolamo Cavalcabo (Hieronyme Calvacabo, Hieronimo Cavalcabo) was a 16th century Italian fencing master. He was trained in the Bolognese school of fencing, possibly under Angelo Viggiani dal Montone, and seems to have traveled to London, England in the 1580s or 1590s and set up a school.^{[citation needed]} During this period he also wrote a treatise on the use of the rapier entitled Nobilissimo discorso intorno il schermo ("Most Noble Discourse on Defense"), though it would not be published until 1597. In the early 17th century, he received a position in the court of Henry IV of France as fencing instructor to his son Louis (the future Louis XIII).^{[citation needed]}

Treatise

Preface and Introduction

Images	Draft Translation (from the German) by Kevin Maurer	Archetype (ca. 1580s)	French Translation (1597)	German Translation (1611)
	New Artful Fencing Book Of the widely famous and much traveled Italian Fencing Master Hieronymi Cavalcabo from Bononien Here forth from the writings of which instance through Mr. de Villamont, Knight of the Order of Jerusalem, and Kingly MT, in France as Cammer Junker, has transferred into the French language. Now however, to please all Lovers of the Praisworthy Fencing arts, Germanized from the reported French language by Conrad von Einsidell Mens in consilus valet in certamine dextra
	Forward The Serene and Highborn Princes and Lords, Lord Johan Phillip, Lord Friederich, and Lord Johan Wilhelm, Princes of Saxony, Eulich, Cleve and Bergk, Counts in Dueringen, Military Governors of Meissen, Dukes of the Marck and Ravensburg, and Lords of Ravenstein, Lordly Bretheren, My Gracious Princes and Lords. Serene Highnesses, high-born princes. Gracious men, thus by God the almighty's gracious power I was born of Christian Noble parents, in this world, in which I am not ever alone, of the true fear of God, and with assiduity learned the praiseworthy studies through learned Praeceptores I was compelled by all exercising of diligent study and to all Christian and noble Youths I persistently beseech? But rather also above this a considerable opportunity was presented to me,
	Therefore, I am First and foremost, Divine Majesty, cordially grateful to them, my loving Parents, for the times of my life, Than I also should and would have an eager guilt of obediance to myself. Such in truth, their preventive expenses incurred and the joys of their noble pleasures, was my most Artful and best opportunity that Humbly speaks to my age old family, well created, and next to the true fear of God, these two pieces make a pillar, therefore. "Salus reipubl: utroqtam pacis quam belli tempore," based on the testimony of the most highly praisworthy Emperor's desire, which also adorns the Nobility and does charge, that namely Attem and Martem, to some purpose were set before me, and with great pleasure allowed. In measure I resolved myself to such ends, and through childish and improper requests, received so much from my loving father, the he granted and allowed me to make a trip to France, England, and the Netherlands, Of this I praise God for evermore, after Five quarter years, I am again happy for coming home, and upon arriving here, I've further been sent to Jena, to continue my unfinished studies.
	Because however my loving Father earnestly urged me, firstly, so that I learned the French language, then by having traveled, learned and gathered together, kept and strengthened through diligent practice. Thus I have served an analysis of my meager project, and want to give it in the language of the day, in a current fencing book, put to our own Mother Language; and these things, and much more, because the Noble and Honorable Mr. Daniel Cachedenier, my new found friend and Tischwirt, has advised me on this fencing book and is such a blessing to me. Thus it is because of the Author (Villamont) and the paraphrasing, of those yonder Italians that he was found in Italy for several years, to be among the most excellent of fencers. However, he is but a Frenchmen, who was for ten years, a disciple of the original Author (Cavalcabo), and hereafter, because of his devotion was made a Knight of the Holy Sepulchre, and his further experience for the Noble youth's sake, and also because of the youthful death of the King of France, his considerable service has been required, and because of the usefullness of his published fencing booklets.
	But I do not doubt it myself, there are quite a few things, Your Royal Grace such that I humbly attribute, and hope that I am not judged untimely, or arrogant, Especially, however, because I myself am still meager in these fencing Arts, due to deficiencies of age, or rather, that I have no experience. But as I thought, thus it had to me such a great occasion to give the pleasure of such a version, tam Martis qua'm Artis, and that I was but rather pleased to watch in amazement, various skilled fencers, in many foreign places, therefore with the passing time and my increasing in age, also something of them was learned, when set before me. Thus well to the cost incurred by my loving parents, towards the practice of the French language, my dutiful guilt, I would like do a good thing. However, that I have in subservience attributed, such a booklet, to Your Royal Graces, and is namely from the causes mentioned, this has happened, that the same beloved lord and father, his late Serene Highness and Highlyborn Prince and Lord, Lord Frederick William, Duke of Saxony, Electorate of Saxony, etc, highpraise and in Christs' blessed memory, my loving ancestors and parents, in such Princely graces, have been weighed.
	so that His Royal Grace from high born princes and Christian ??????, by whose heartfelt loving Bride, who is also of Serene and Highborn Princes and Ladies, Lady Anna-Maria, born Palatine by Rhein, Princess of Bavaria, Duchess of Veldenz and Spanheim, Princess of Saxony etc. Your Royal Graces, Loving Lady Mother, my gracious Princess and Lady, and also the highborn Princess and young lady, Lady Dorothea-Sophia, Princess of Saxony, etc. also my gracious Princess and Young Lady, who so mercifully and graciously bestowed, when without risk on the 10th of May, year 1597 by Personally performing the Christian works of the Holy baptism, in the name of the Lord Christ, our all Redeemer and Saviour, deliver me, and his holy Christian Churches to help incorporate. Therefore, Your Royal Graces, then as their Princely beloved for all posterity, and also my Gracious Princes and Lords, Not only do I know the times in life when to serve most subserviently as possible, but rather also this Booklet with subservience and guilty gratefulness Your Royal Graces Suberviently Conradus von Einsiedell

Rapier and Dagger

Images	Draft Translation (from the German) by Kevin Maurer	Archetype (ca. 1580s)	French Translation (1597)	German Translation (1611)
	The Four most distinguished Guards in the Rappier alone, also in rappier and dagger The first guard is, when one holds the arm higher than the shoulder, The second, when one holds their arm the same height as the shoulder The Third, when one holds this same, a little forward of the knee The Fourth, when one Holds the Dagger and Rappier to the left side.
	The CounterGuards Of the first counterguard it is the fourth, as you have just seen above,. Of the second Counterguard is even the same, as seen before. Likewise also of the third, when one steps outside of the enemies point. Of the Fourth, it is the second or third, when one springs to the side, there the enemy has his Dagger.
	To what end the Body serves? Our body is divided in two parts: Of one itself to Defend, the other to attack the enemy. The right side is for the attack, the left side to the Defense. An Instruction, how one shall judge from his opponent's guards When your opponent shows that his feet are together, thus is he willing to thrust at you; But if he holds them wide from one another, thus will he wait for yours.
	How one best should parry or takeout The Best parrys come with the Rappier. The Dagger serves in addition, so that it comes with help to you. When you however, parry with the Rappier, thus should this happen with the strong. When you however, parry with the dagger, thus you must take out on the weak of your opponent's rappier, when he offers up a thrust to you. A rule, thereby one can know, how one should use the Rappier correctly. The correct Rappiers' edge is that with which you can harm your opponent. the false serves to take out, namely from the strong of the rappier on to the Hilt, while one must always use an edge, namely, the half edge to offend, the other helps to defend or take out. The Four manners to try. The first attempt happens outside of the Opponents rappier The second to the side where he has his dagger. The Third, how one shows the feet together, and remains in recta linea . The Fourth is, when one sets a foot in front of the other, and with the Left always steps forth.
	What is Tempus? the tempo in Rappier, Dagger, and the movement of the feet is, that one should not soon thrust, until one has the correct Measure, of his Opponent, to step to. What is Measure, and out of the Measure? The Measure is, when one can reach to the other with a thrust. By contrast, out of the Measure is, when you cannot reach the opponent without stepping to them, with a thrust or strike. What is there to be, the Strong or Weak of the Rappiers? The strong , which is beneficial to the Defense, is that part of the rappier from the middle to the Hilt. The weak is the other part of the Rappier (from middle) to the tip.
	How you may come to know, if you are with the advantage in the Guards. The advantage of the guards is, when you hold your Rappiers' point, exactly against your adversaries' shoulder, and this same point is turned out from you. You will however, hereby pay attention, that you step towards your opponent's right side in a quarten, holding your dagger close to the Rappier. Which Guard is the best, thus it well defends you, and to your opponent, is done harm The first , second and third serve to attack, with the half or whole thrust; The fourth however, to await on the enemy.
	How one shall attack his Adversary with advantage? When you will attack your opponent, you must be expecting his after thrust, to the side with which he is closest to you, Will he attempt this however, you must be in quarte, thereafter, with the left foot passing, and thrust straight to the Face, and any well brought thrusts to you, quickly again proceed in the Secunde , therewith, when your Adversary would step to you with the right foot, so you give him a thrust, and you again can be in the quarte, with this same, you must expect his Riposte or Afterthrust, which you thereupon take out with the Rappier, and you should step with the left foot to his right side, your Dagger, contrarily against the Rappier, and in doing so, dont forget, that he in turn, thrusts in secunde. But he who will not thrust, so then you can use these reported plays. (Stuecke)
	Counter to this, thus feints or half thrusts are used You should position yourself, as if you would take him out with the dagger or rappier, with this you give him reason to caviren. Thus if he does so, you can give a thrust, with a stiff arm, and without moving the feet or passing, provided that you are in the measure. Thus You can also do to him: In which he makes to you a feint, and you have the Measure, you can give him a hard thrust to the Body, and spring to the side of his dagger thus giving him reason for the afterthrust. This you can conveniently do, to those who would attempt a feint to you, namely that you parry with your Rappier, and in other tempore you thrust, and with diligent attention you expect his Riposte. Against those who stand still, or in stricta mensura thrust. You must hold the Dagger and rappier high, so that your rappier's tip is directed at the opponent's face, and you give a little opening of your body. Thus when your opponent thrusts to you, then you should take out his thrust, under your rappier, to your right side,with your dagger and at the same time, with a withdrawal of the body, thrust to the Chest or to the Face.
	Or However you should, in this, take out with the Dagger, and give to him a stiff cut to his right arm: when he will well bring his thrust, even while you are in the same Guard as his Thrust, how it is reported, Or however, you can suppress his rappier, and step with the left foot to his right side, and with the help of your Dagger, give him a secunde. Against those, who are first to thrust, and thereupon step back. Then the thrusts must be taken out with the Rappier or Dagger, and thereupon with the left foot step forth to the Adversary following in recta linea, and from the Guards always position yourself, as if you would attack him, until you see, that he gives you an opening. When this happens, thereupon you must give him a stiff thrust, and quickly step again in secunde, with this advantage, you can expect his afterthrust.
	Against those, who will not be the first to thrust. Such an attempt must be to the side, where he has gotten closest, again position yourself in secunde or quarte, and expect his Riposte. When he then does this, one must see, what will be best to break him with, a cut or a thrust, Against those, who take out with the Dagger or Rappier. To know, if one takes out with the Dagger or Rappier: You must give to him a thrust between the Dagger and Rappier, thereby he shall be caused to parry. If he takes out with the Rappier, you should go through in a tertien, and thrust him to the right side. If he offers the tip to you, then you can go through in Secunde with the weak, and with the right foot step forth, and use your Dagger, to give him a thrust in Secunde. Or however, you can also thrust in tertien when he parries, and with the right foot stepping forth, always pay attention to the dagger. If he takes out with the dagger, you can caviren over the point of the dagger, and thrust him to the left shoulder or to the face, and position yourself quickly again in Tertien, and hold the dagger close by the Rappier, expect his intentions.
	Against those, who always yield backwards, and won't hold a position: So it must be done, that when you would step forth with the feet, thereby he has reason to yield backwards, behind himself: Thereupon you can quickly caviren with the Rappier over the Dagger, and thrust with a Secunde to the left shoulder or to the face, expect his Riposte in Secunde. Against those, that hold too long with the rappiers binding You must do it thus; If you would surpress or strike away this binding, thereby he has reason to caviren. When such happens, you can at the same time, give him a Stoccade without movement of the feet. Or however you can position yourself, as if you would strike away his rappier with your dagger, thereby he will be caused by this same to again draw back. In that, he will do so, then you can postition yourself, so that when you would, give to him a thrust
	thereby he will be compelled to take you out with his dagger. When such happens, thus you should caviren over the point of his dagger, and give to him a stiff thrust to the left side/face or body. Further you can also position yourself, as if you would bind on with your rappier to his, thereby you caviren to him or give him reason to yield and draw back. If he prepares to caviren, thus you should take out with the rappier, and step with the left foot to his right side, also take help from your dagger, position yourself in Secunde, thereby you can make an end to him, where it will be convenient. Will he however yield his Rappier back, you can threaten , as if you would give to him a thrust, thereby you urge him to parry with the dagger, when he does this, you can give to him a thrust over the dagger, to the side his dagger is, and hold the dagger close to the rappier, your left side is open, thus anticipate his riposte.
	Against those, who hold forth the dagger too far from the rappier. You must proceed in Secunde or Tertien, and hold the dagger close to the rappiers' cross, or held near the right arm, and with the left foot step forth against the enemies left side, and with the right arm standing to the Toes, thrust to the closest part of the body, In the middle of the riposte, pay careful attention, what the enemy might do to you. Which, provided that he thrusts with unmoving feet, you can take him out with the dagger, and give to him a thrust in Secunde, to his right side. Whe he however would step forth, thus you should caviren over the point of his Dagger with your Rappier, and thrust to the body between his dagger and rappier, and takeout his thrust with your dagger. Also you can make a feint to him with the dagger and thrust him to the left side, also other thrusts or cuts are done, how it is to your best opportunity to bring it. How you can know your adversaries intentions.
	When you will break your opponent's actions, you must bind on a little with your rappier to his rappier or dagger, thereby he will be caused to be the first to thrust. When he does this, then you should parry, and give to him a Riposte, where to you it seems best. How you can bring in your foe, so that he thrusts to you, in the place that to you is most convenient. You should initiate it from such knowledge: Hold the rappier in tertien, and the Dagger close by the right arm or your rappier's cross, thereby your adversary has no other openings to the left side. You can also position yourself in Quarte, and hold your dagger by the rappier, thereby he has reason, to thrust to your right side. Item, you can also give an opening between the rappier and dagger, and yourself stay in a high guard in Prima or secunda, also holding the dagger to the left side
	In such guards you can anticipate his guards, or his attacks, and how the best will be suitable to you. Against those, who pass through. When you must present the rappier high, thereby they have reason to bind on and to pass through, From this, you must draw back your forward foot, and parry his thrust, then in Secunde or Tertien thrust. Or you can give him a thrust, stepping to his side, when you however are too slow, you can Riposte with the strong of your rappier, against your opponent's weak. You can also stringiren his rappier with the help of your dagger. You can also in Tertia yield back with your Rappier, and hold your dagger close by the rappier, and give him a stoccade. You can also caviren over the point of his Dagger, and yourself again in quarte be positioned. You will also position yourself long and low before him, thereby he will be caused to stringiren. Will he do this, then you should go through and around with your dagger over his dagger, and take out his rappier with your dagger, and in Secunde thrust.
	You can also present him with a thrust between his rappier and dagger, and with it, he will be caused to take you out with his dagger: then you can step back with the left foot, and thrust in Quarte, You should also hold your rappier low, with it he has reason to stringiren: If he does this, you should draw your foot in Quarte, take out his thrust with your dagger , and give him a thrust in his spine. How one should go against the comportment, which until recently, was never fought with. With it you may know, what your oppositions' art of fencing is, thus you should position yourself with bent (or bowed) body with the rappier good and long from you, and the dagger hold close by the rappier. with which you should beckon him, to take you out, if he would parry with the dagger or the rappier. thereupon you then must use your INDICIUM, to those that he gives from the Tag, what he has in mind. However, pay attention, when he parries with his dagger, that you go through with your rappier, and you give to him a stocadde to the left side, and step outwards to the side, thrust him in Secunde, or anticipate his Riposte.
	Will he take out to the right side with his rappier, thus you should go through with your rappier,and give him a Stoccade in a tertia, to the right shoulder, thereupon you again have postiioned yourself in Quarte,and in this anticipate, his Riposte. However, if he has no desire to take you out, thus you can try a stiff thrust to him, towards the most convenient side, with it you cause him to Afterthrust. And thus if you see, that he will not be stirred or will take a position in the Guards, thus you should with all your might make a close in step to him, and look to give him a Stoccade. Against those who give an opening between the rappier and dagger. You must firmly hold the Dagger and Rappier together, and go in straight in recta linea, between his dagger and rappier, and give him a stiff thrust to the body, with it he must take you out with his dagger or rappier: If he will then parry with the rappier, thus you should go through with your rappier, and with stepping of your left foot, to the opponent;s right side, also done with the Dagger, and give him a Stoccade in secunde. If he will parry with the dagger, thus you should go through with the Rappier, and give to him a stoccade to
	to the left side, and step out to his left side that you are positioned in Seconde, in this same, you anticipate the Adversary's Riposte. Furthermore, you can give him a thrust with a setting forth of the left foot in a quarte, between his Dagger and rappier, take out his rappier with your dagger, and give him, provided that you have the measure, a Stoccade. Nevertheless remember this always, that you quickly step back again, and in a quarte and await his Riposte. Against those who give to you an opening to the right or left You should thrust these unpleasants to their opening, nevertheless, that you dont make a full thrust, for with it, you give to your opponent an opening, so that he has reason to thrust at you, If he will not thrust however, you can well bring the completed thrust, and again position yourself in the Guard. If you make a high thrust at him, you should again position yourself in Seconde, and await his Riposte, and always remember, that you thrust to the closest side
	Against one, who always leaps in and out When you must get through to him, to the side, because he will go down, hold firmly together the Rappier and dagger, with the dagger close to the rappier, also give an opening of the half section of your Body, he is caused to thrust to you. If he will not do this, you must search his middle, to undertake, as soon as he would position himself with the foot to attack you, so well to the one side as to the other. Against those, who are in Quarte, and hold the dagger close by the rappier You should give him a thrust over his dagger, it is with passing or stiff foot. You can also give him a tertie, and suppress his rappier with your dagger, it is with stiff foot or with passing. In addition to this you can give him a Tertie over his Rappier, and with the strong of your rappier, take out his weak, with a simultaneous step forth with the left foot, and your dagger gives you help
	You can also make a Feint to him between his rappier and dagger, with it he will be caused to parry with the dagger. If he does this, thus you should caviren inwards and under his dagger, and with this, pass with the left foot to his right side, so that you will be powerful with your dagger on his rappier. You can also make a feint over his dagger, and between his dagger and rappier, give him a Stoccade, to the right side, how its reported, and is to be stepped, and take help from the dagger against his Rappier, also that you quickly position youself again the Guard, and anticipate his Riposte. How one should thrust with advantage You should position yourself in Quarte, and thereafter step to his right side, a little out of measure and give him a thrust straight to the face, with a stepping forth of your left foot. Thereafter position yourself in the Seconde, and with the right foot step towards him and give a stiff thrust, and quickly position yourself in Quarte, and in this same, await a thrust. If he then does a Riposte, you should take out this same, and also dont forget your dagger. If he will not thrust, you can use the previously reported thrusts.
	Also pay attention, when you will begin to give him a thrust, that you use no feints, but rather you thrust hard to your Opponent, which is the best method, immediately attack once or twice. So that your opponent can do nothing else, so that he cavirets his rappier with his feet still, or in this he realizes that you will pass through with your left foot, then make a thrust in the Quarte. Both of these thrusts can he use on you: which you however easily can do, when you parry with the dagger, and in those that he would thrust at you, he is countered with a Riposte. Which is the best Guard to anticipate all of the Thrusts, that one can meet, Against all thrusts that you defend, there is no better Guard than the Quarte, yet that you look to take out all of your opponents' thrusts with your Rappier: Thereafter, when you are forceful with your dagger on his Rappier, thus you should give a strong thrust with passing or with out moving the feet, this is always to his (the opponents) right side, so many opportunities occur, and you must anticipate his reactions with diligent attention.
	and always keep in mind that you proceed immediately again in Quart with well brought thrusts, these same of his, you anticipate with advantage. How one shall Correctly hold the Dagger You should pay attention, so that you never hold the dagger too far from you, it should be, that you should be able to surpress your opponent's rappier with it. also with it, your hand or arm will not be harmed, in this also your dagger is stretched forth. Thus this serves you as well, so that your enemy doesnt notice, what you have in mind. Above this, your body is better made safe, and your opponent has few opportunities or means to get at you. When you will hold it correctly, thus you should hold it close by the Rappier, not far from the Rappier's Hilt, and position yourself in tertien or quarten. Against those, who will surpress your rappier with theirs'
	In such unavoidable (situations) you should move your rappier again to the rear, even in the Guards, you will always be found, to hold your dagger close by the Rappier. And when your opponent will bind on to you, thus will he proceed out of the lines, thereupon you should use the following thrusts against him. You should position yourself in Tertien, and with a setting forth of the left foot, and also giving him a thrust with your dagger over the point of his rappier, in Seconde or Tertie, aimed at his right side. You can also, in those where you would see him touch your rappier, promptly pass through and give a thrust to his right side under his rappier, at the same time you use your dagger. Furthermore, when you are in Quarte, and he will look for your Rappier, then you should at once, go through inside his Rappier with your dagger and take him out, and give to his body a Stoccade, it is done with still feet or passing with your left foot, to his left side. Furthermore you can also caviren with your rappier over his point, thereafter with the help of your dagger give a thrust to him between his Rappier and dagger without moving the feet, or to the side that his dagger is passing.
	A Rule against those, who always will be first to thrust or cut You will be reminded that you never exclude to move your body, and with the left foot step back, for then, rather all of your Advesary's thrusts are in vain, When thereupon his thrust is about to be, you can give him a Stoccade to the closest side, and understand well, that he does not bind on to you. But since he did not thrust, you can always thrust to the closest side (how its previously said) and anticipate his counter thrust. Which he thus sends, thou shalt see, that you bring him out of the Guards, so that you can get him without him seeing. How many thrusts one could do against those, who stand with the left foot forward. When you see, that one stands forth with the left foot, thus you should look for your advantage to his left side, and when you would come to the same, thus be mindful, that you voltigirest with the left foot, your rappier in Tertie, and holding the dagger close thereby and without moving the feet
	feet, thrust under the left arm. And since your Adversary holds his dagger a little lower than his rappier, you can hold rappier and dagger close together, and thrust to his left shoulder, and his Counterthrust expect in such a manner. these things you can use in seriousness or in play, as well to cut as to thrust. Will you make a thrust, thus you should go in Seconde, that you can prevent his Ripost. There where you have but cut at one, thus you should go at once again into Quarte. If you however cut from one, thus you should go again in Seconde, and hold your dagger close by the Rappier, his Ripost can be more justly expected. When your Adversary sets out the left leg too far forward, you will position yourself as if you would give a thrust to the face, which he will thus take out, you will allow your rappier to sink, and make a cut to his left leg, and after the cut is done you again go to Quarte, and to his Ripsosts, prevent. These are the Stuecken. that one can use against those, who stand forward with the left foot.
	When however, one in such a stance will pass, you shall give him your Rappier to surpress, with it he has reason to pass through. If he does this, thus you should draw your foot back and give him a cut to the head or arm, or give a thrust in Seconde, always hold your dagger close by the Rappier. How many thrusts one can do against the First, Second and Third Guards. You should position yourself in Quarte, and step to the Adversary's right side, holding your dagger not too high or too low, and to the right side give a little opening, with it your Opponent has reason, to be the first to thrust at you. If he does this, thus should you parry with your Rappier, to his right side, and see, that you are forceful with your dagger on his rappier, thrust him in Secunde. Will he however go through with his rappier, thus you can pass to him with such acts, as reported before, and thrust him in tertia, pay attention with your dagger. This you can use, as soon as he encourages it. If he stays still however, thus you should
	caviren to his right side,with your rappier under his rappier, and your dagger held against him, with passing give him a Stoccada in tertia. You can also, stringiren his rappier with yours, where you pass, with the left foot to his right side and don't forget your dagger thereabouts. But as he is pulling his rappier back, you should position yourself, as if you would thrust, and with it, he will be caused to takeout with his dagger. and where he will pass through, you should go through under his daggers' point with your Rappier, and give him a Stoccade to his body; Thereafter you again position yourself in Seconde, to insure yourself against his Ripost. These thrusts you can use against the first, second and third. However, when he will hold his rappier wider out then the dagger, in such a case, you should thrust to his left side, but that you always pay attention to his ripost. Which of these he will do, (how the public tends to view) you should come to a completed thrust to his left side and again go to Seconde, that thou can after his riposts which have been done, thrust to his right side. One can also do many other various thrusts, But for the sake of shortness, I will give the best here.
	How one shall govern the Body, fitly These things to know, you must remember, that the body is divided in two parts, The one to the right side, and the other is known as the left. The best part is this: with it you can do a stop to your opponent: The other, namely the left side, serves to the defense, although some think, that one uses the left side to attack. The left foot serves to come in the correct measure, and the dagger also to help, how it's reported above. And that you may know, what is inside passing, it is; when you go between his dagger and rappier in a Quarte or otherwise pass through. Outside passing will be known as; when you step fast outside your opponent's rappier. How one should hold himself against those, who would be the first to thrust.
	When you will persuade your enemy, that he shall thrust first, thus you should give him opportunity, he will be caused to thrust as a result of a modest opening of the body, it is inside or outside, and in doing so, you will always pay attention with your dagger. You can also hold your dagger and rappier firmly together, and give him the left side opening, to cause him to thrust to your opening over your dagger, then you should turn, and give him a Stoccade. Or however you may also go through , over his dagger, and thrust him in Tertie, where he will try to thrust over your dagger. You can also draw back your rappier and dagger, and thus behaving in his measure, give him a Stoccade to his right shoulder One can also do many more thrusts to someone, who will thrust over your dagger. A report, if it is better, to anticipate the enemy, or to attack him. It is both good: But I am of the opinion, it is always better to wait for your opponent to attack. Then when one is not so quick to the offense
	he always has better advantage, when he holds in his Guards. The reason is this: Who attacks the other, will give his opening, Who however waits to take out his opponent, stays in his advantage. I speak of them, who know how to send themselves into the Defensive postion. My stance, would I position myself, as if i would thrust, so my Opponent will be incited to make the first thrust, and after overcoming the Measure I will then be able, to thrust to his closest and most convenient opening, with anticipation of his Ripost: However, in such a way, that I myself am resolved to the Counterthrust. Then you are othewise, in great danger, when one will attack his adversary in Primo tempore; Which I would advise to no one, It would be then. that it can happen with great and sublte advantage.
	How one shall fight Cut and Thrust with Rappier and Mantel Take special attention, that you do not cast your Mantel at the Opponent, or unto his rappier, until you have become conversant in this hindrance: Then otherwise, where you cast forth your mantel at him, he could get at you easily. With it, now you know, why the Mantel is useful, in particular, the Rappier comes to the aid, and should you be reminded, that you parry all thrusts with the Rappier, then after this has happened, you position yourself in Quarte, and Hold your Mantel close under the Hilt of your rappier, that you use your Rappier against your Adversary's thrusts. Will you give to one a Cut however, thus you should take out this same, with your Rappier's Cross, and hold the Mantel not far from the Rappier, go into Tertie, Quarte or on the left foot
	Will you however, await your Opponent's thrust, so must you be in Quarte, he is in whatever guard he wants, your right side is open, and pay good attention here, that you could hurt your opponent, with nothing more than thrusting. Will you get at him however, thus you should make a half thrust to his face, with it he will be caused to caviren with his rappier. Will he do this to the right side, thus you will meet him with the following thrusts, If you see that he will take you out with his Rappier, thus you should with your left foot pass off, and drive to his Hilt with your mantel, with it you can give him a hard thrust. Or however you can, caviren under his rappier where he parries, and give him a Stoccade in Tertie, with a step to of the left foot. You will however pay careful attention, if you attempt this, that you can come to his Rappier with your Mantel, and thus to his.. be forceful, and give a thrust to his right side. However, if this will not proceed, you can also with, well-proportioned, (even), passing, caviren under his Rappier, and give him a Stoccade in Seconde. If he acts, as if he would not parry, thus you should give him a full thrust, to his face or Body, wherever it will give the best opportunity. Will he however, give to you a Ripost where you are, in thrusting, thus you can step to the right side, and surpress his Rappier. And thereby pay attention, that you can come onto his Rappier with the mantel.
	Furthermore, it will be marked, when you attempt a half thrust at his face, that he will parry your rappier, outside, thus you can caviren under his rappier with yours, and in a tertien, thrust to his Chest. Or however, there he parries, you can caviren over his rappiers' tip, and then with a stepping to, of the left foot, and also the help of the Mantel, thrust in quarte, inside to his body. You can also give to him a cut to his Leg or Face. You must however pay careful attention, that you step to the right side, and with the Rappier go again into Tertie or Quarte, that with it, you can encounter him with a thrust, and will you hereby be forceful with the mantel to his Rappier, should not be forgotten. Furthermore it is thought, in attacking, to use these following two Stucken: To the first, one thrusts, to the other, one cuts, it is to the face or to the legs. Will you make a cut, then you must immediately go back against, where you have caused him to revenge. Then such unprovided for cuts hurt more, and is also done in the Measure. To the other, in attacking, pay attention to him, so that you always thrust to his closest opening, it is in Seconde or Tertie.
	How one shall behave with Mantel and Rappier, when one will await his adversaries intentions. You should position yourself in Quarte, and hold the mantel close by the Rappier, to defend yourself against Cuts and Thrusts. If your opponent gives to you a Stoccade, thus should you parry this same with your rappier, and step with the left foot to his right side, and take good care with the Mantel, with it you can thrust him in Seconde. Will he give to you a Cut, thus you should parry this with the rappier, the mantel gives you help, and stepping to his right side, thrust him in Seconde. However, where he would cut manfully. should you parry with changed fist to his right side, and with the left foot step to his Right side, to take his counterthrust, and do this with your Mantel, then give him a Stoccade or Cut to the Face or to the legs. Will he however cut manfully, to meet your thrust, thus you should step forth with the left foot, and dont forget your mantel, when it's opportune to give him a thrust or cut to the face or legs. or you can with
	with a turned around fist, parry, and anticipate his cut, also with the left foot passing, give him a thrust in Seconde. One can also do many other thrusts, however these are the best, to use in earnest. III. From the Cuts, how one shall do these, and how they are called. So that you may know, how you can use quite a few cuts, you can not only cut to and from the opponent but also give an equal cut from above, it is with turned or without turned fist, Will you manfully give a cut from above, thus you must cut fromyour right side to your opponent, where after you've completed your cut, you can go into Quarte.
	Will you however cut manfully, thus you should begin from the left side, and after your completed cut, position yourself again in Tertie. Many other cuts can You do from both sides: However these last ones are the best. Will a cut to the head be given to you, you should parry this with the true edge of your rappier, Will he manfully cut at you, you will takeout his cut with turned hand, If he cuts however, from above to below, you can likewise parry with Mantel, Dagger or rappier: then to you, your Dagger and mantel can be useful, that you have your rappier free to give him a cut. Will he manfully cut, you can take out with your rappier, and where it's not a thrust, still give a cut to his face or arm. Or however you can hold your rappier, dagger and mantel crosswise over each other, and give a cut to the body. You can also take him out with your dagger or mantel, with the stepping to of your left foot, to his right side, how it will be best thought of by you. One can also parry with the body, by letting the cut go by, and in this he steps to the right side, meet his stepping, and in a Tertie with stiff Arm thrust to his right side, also the dagger and mantel thereby always take care to know.
	Will he however present a manly cut, you will know how to take this out with turned fist, your dagger and mantel helps by holding it under the rappier, give him a cut from your best opportunity. You can also allow his cuts to miss, and thereafter without moving the foot or with passing, give him a Ripost, how it will be most conducive to you. These techniques can be used against those, who will boldly attack you. When you will attack, you must use both cut and thrust. When you are disposed, to give a cut to your Adversary, you must firstly present him with a thrust in Seconde or Tertie, In that case, these Guards are the best to attack with. You must especially pay attention, when you're very willing, to give him a hard thrust to the face, that he will be caused by this, to take you out, If he does not do this, then allow your thrust to go away. If he however, takes you out with his dagger, thus you will give him a manly cut to his left arm or head, and again position yourself in Quarte, you await his Ripost, nevertheless outside the Measure. Will he however take you out, with his Rappier, thus will you give him a reverse or a manly cut to his head.
	once again you go into Tertien or Seconde, and await his intentions. You can also present him a Thrust in between his rappier and Dagger, with it he takes this out with his dagger: In this you can give him a cut, sent as it will be best, and position yourself immediately again in Tertie or Quarte, counter his Ripost with advantage. More than that, you can also give a thrust over his dagger, if he will take this out with his rappier, you can give him a cut to his leg, it is with turned or un-turned fist, how it will be the best opportunity. Provided that he will take out with turned fist, you must also do this same measure, The same techniques can one set forth a good deal more: However, i hold these for the best. Against one, who tempts with the thrust, (but) will give a Cut When one will present a thrust to you, and then a cut be given, thus will you take out his thrust with your Rappier, where he will be caused to proceed towards your right side,
	With your left foot stepping forth, take out his rappier with your dagger, and in this, thus with outstretched arm, thrust him to the face. Will he however manfully cut to you, you will take this out with your Rappier, and with your dagger give a Stoccade to his right side. Or else you can be forceful with the dagger on his rappier, and give him a thrust in Seconde, with yours. Further, when you will have taken out his cut with your rappier, you can be waiting to take his rappier with your dagger, and with turned around fist, give him a cut to his leg and at once, draw back your rappier into Tertie again, with this you then, can give a thrust, where it will give the opportunity. Will he present to you a manly thrust, you can even have help from your dagger or mantel, whereby you have ataken out his cut with your dagger, give him a thrust, how it is previously stated, and you proceed to his right side, Also, pay good attention, that you hold fast your dagger or mantel under his rappier. How one should behave towards a Left hander
	When you have to fight with a left hander, you should behave like against a right hander, it is in attacks or taking out, How it is also in passing, it is with Rappier and Dagger, Rappier and Mantel or in single rappier, and in addition it is to your advantage to step out to the side of his rappier, and where possible, cause him there to be the first to thrust. However, if you cannot bring him to this, you may give to him a Stoccade to his closest opening. You will however, cultivate, that you lure out his first thrust. And see well ahead, when you have presented him a thrust, that he doesnt give you "eodem momento" a Ripost. Take also good care, that you always hold your Rappier above his overhand. The best Guards against a left hander are the Prima, Secunda and tertia, in addition, always hold the Dagger and mantel close by the rappier's hilt, You must however, pay particular attention, that you always are outside of your enemies rappier, with it you, are forceful on his Rappier,how it is previously stated. Will you however, pass, thus you should always step forward with the left foot Where he would however, position himself in your same guard, and thus await your thrust, Will you go to Prima or Seconda, if you must then go into Tertie, hold your dagger or mantel close by your rappier's hilt, and your left foot close by your right, with it you
	can give a thrust to his inner body or face, and he will be forced to take out this same. Shall he do this, thus you will run under him with your dagger and give him a manly Cut to the legs, or manfully to the head, and you will then draw your rappier back again, so that when it is necessary, and are given the opportunity to, you can Duplieren with a thrust. And with it you must pay careful attention to your steps, be mindful, and use diligence, when he always goes to your outside, and you by contrast to the inside, with this he cannot easily offend you. These narrated Stuck will you use, when you will be first to thrust: If your opponent however, even wants to use this same against you, thus you can parry the following form, where you preempt his principle thrust: Namely, you will see, that where he has presented a thrust to you, you will be forceful on his Rappier from above, and in eodem tempore with outstretched arm, you give him a thrust, and after this accomplishment, position yourself again in the previous Guard. Where he wants to thrust first however, you can use the following Stuck against him:You will take out with your Rappier, with this he has reason to step to the left side and give a cut. but before he can accomplish this, you will know how to take him out with turned hand and rappier, furthermore, the manly cuts are sent from outside.
	Will he himself strike manfully, you can position yourself on the right foot, holding your dagger or Mantel above your rappier, take care, that you step outside his rappier! Will he then present a thrust, thus will you behave in his tempo, and in Quarta, how it is said, thrust outwards to his left side. This Stuck however serves more to Defend than to Offend. The Counter guards against a Left hander are; when you are holding your rappier outside of his, how it is said above, which otherwise for you also this Stuck can be used, and he has it to his advantage. Will however the above said, Right (handsided) stuck be used against him, where the Left is not very well practiced, he will have a great advantage with his right side. A short discourse, How one shall thrust in single Rappier In single Rappier one can use many Guards, among them the Quarta to await, the Tertie however is the best to attack with, in these two Guards you use your thrusts and cuts. If you go through below your opponents rappier, thus you receive a great advantage.
	which goes through or cavirens his beginning, how one saith, that it is said to come from Agrippa, in which two Roosters are seen to be fighting, and then one springs at the other, and he would bite him, the other has gone through, and has given him a thrust. Instruction against the previous Thrust, and against those, who would thus attack first. If he will want to pass in Tertia , thus will you again go at him in tertie, or you can go through with your rappier, and with the hand take him out, and do a thrust in Seconde, or with caviren thrust over from outside his Rappier in Quarte. You can also draw back your foot again, and with the hand take him out, and give him a Stoccade to the Back. Against those, who thrust in Quarta, surpress the Rappier with the hand and go through below the Rappier.
	One who thrusts in Quarta, thus you can meet like this: You will take out his Rappier's weak with your strong, and thus with a stiff arm give him a thrust to the right shoulder; Or you will go through below his Rappier, and give a thrust in Tertia. You can also take out his thrust with your rappier, and give him a thrust to his Face or Body. Or else, when it gives the opportunity, you can take out with the hand, and draw back your foot, and draw to him a Stoccade to the Back. These are the Thrusts, which one uses against those who thrust in Quarta. Will he however, want to grab your rappier with the hand , thus should you offer him such, where he has reason to grab it, and with both feet passing and at the same time, give a Stoccade in quarte to his left shoulder. You can also present your rappier for him to surpress, and when he wants to do such, step back, and with the hand take out his rappier and thrust in Seconde. Will you however see, that your Opponent has the desire to go through and under your rappier, thus hold the rappier only high, with it he will be caused to pass. if he sends this away, thus will you stringiren his rappier, and step with the left foot to his right side, when you will be forceful with your hand on his rappier's hilt,
	give him a Stoccade in Seconde. or you can draw your foot back and where he wants to pass, give him a thrust in the back, or where it will otherwise seem most convenient to you. A discourse in general, how one in single rappier shall fence, it is with cuts or thrusts You will pay careful attention, if your opponent wants to attack you with a cut, with this you shorten his Measure as much as possible, and where he presents a cut to you, you give him a full thrust, it is without moving the foot or with passing. If however, you want to attack. thus will you give him a thrust to his Shoulder in tertia, with it he will be forced to take this out. If he does this, thus will you go through below his rappier, and give a Stoccade in Tertia to his right side with passing. However, will he parry, thus will you give him a cut to the legs with a turned fist, and pass to his right side, with this you will be forceful on his rappier which is under your arm, and you can rip it out of his hand, again position yourself in tertia.

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Work	Author(s)	Source	License
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Translation	Kevin Maurer	Meyer Freifechter Guild
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French Translation
German Translation

Additional Resources

• Runacres, Rob. Treatise or Instruction for Fencing: By Hieronymus Calvacabo of Bologna and Patenostrier of Rome. Self-published, 2015.