"Have you never observed how all animals, from the most insignificant
creatures up to the most savage beasts, set about fighting? Look at two
cocks in a back-yard or two bulls in a field. Notice how they skirmish
and spar before really letting themselves go; notice the wicked glitter
of their eyes as they intently watch for an opening, where they will
presently plant their most telling blow.
"What teaches them not to rush at each other's throat in blind fury?
Why, simply instinct, the science of self-preservation which is common
to every living thing; and common instinct should teach you the same
lesson.
"You will easily realise how completely you upset or at least disturb
the calculations of the man who is clinging to advice of this
kind:--'The moment you are on guard,--lunge, before your opponent has
time to collect himself'; or of the man, whose one idea is to make a
wild and indiscriminate charge.
"Such men, however lacking they may be in brains, can hardly fail
to perceive that the distance between you and them makes a surprise
impracticable. If they do attempt it, their movements will be
disconcerted; they will give themselves away, and may probably run upon
your point if you hold it straight before you, or in any case they must
give you time to see them coming. You may be attacked no doubt, and
attacked furiously, but you will not be surprised.