National Militia Standard, Embracing the Discipline of Infantry, Light Infantry, Riflemen, Light Artillery, Horse Artillery, Cavalry Volume 2; Prepared in Conformity to Gen. Scott's Regulations for the Army, Established by Congress. the Work Is Illustrated (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1822 Excerpt: ...would be the result of choosing a medium; in this guard, the lower part of the arm being secure, the attention is chiefly directed toward cut I. and II. an attempt to make which is easily perceived and obviated by turning up the guard by a motion of the wrist. has" the effect of narrowing the focus, it occasions no impediment to the sight... In this position, the arm shouldoe distended to the utmost, and of course the hand above the level of the shoulder; the bridle hand always remains across the body, in the position of holding a bridle, except when the swords are sloped. In the guard, the greatest attention must be paid to the correct position of the hand, which must always be directed to the left ear of the antagonist, notwithstanding any change of position on his part. From a guard correctly taken, there is no risk in attacking, because the sword hilt is immediately opposed to the antagonist's retort; but when a cut originates from a false position, the head, by the first motion, becomes exposed. In opposing cavalry, the arm becomes a pivot, round which the arm wheels the sword independent of any other action, but what may be derived from the shoulder: care must therefore be taken, neither to incline the hand to the right or left of the given position, nor to sink it below the level of the antagonist's left ear; but above all, not to bwid ihs elbow; these are faults which beginners are extremely apt to commit, and which expose the sword arm to be completely disabled. The attention cannot be too often recalled to these most essential points in the science; the strict observance of which, chiefly constitutes the excellence of the system. REMARKS. From this guard, nearly every movement, offensive and defensive, can be made with a rapidity and force, a...