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