Move the hand about six or seven inches to the right without shifting
the upper arm, which should be kept near the side, and slightly turn the
palm down. Edge to the right. Point about two or three inches to the
left (his left) of your adversary’s left eye. Hand and point the same
height as in Inside Guard.
These guards may be used as parries with good effect against a bayonet
or lance.
An Engaging Guard formed in the manner above described is called
“Defensive,” as it covers the side on which you are engaged, and defends
it from a straight thrust.
It is called “Offensive” when the arm is more straightened and the point
directed to your adversary, so that the line in which you are engaged is
open.
After engaging, you are not bound to remain with the blades touching,
but it is an advantage to do so to a man who possesses a light hand and
has a fine feel of the blade.
The feel of the blade often telegraphs to you your adversary’s
intention. By it you can tell if he is going to attack, or you may learn
what guard he will form on the first movement of your attack upon him.
To obtain a proper feel of the blade, you should not grasp your sword
tightly, but gently press the tips of your fingers on the grip, and keep
as light a touch of your adversary’s blade as possible.