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FLAVIUS
VEGETIUS RENATUS BOOK ONE NOT TO CUT, BUT TO THRUST WITH THE SWORD They were likewise taught
not to cut but to thrust with their swords. For the Romans not only made a jest
of those who fought with the edge of that weapon, but always found them an easy
conquest. A stroke with the edges, though made with ever so much force, seldom
kills, as the vital parts of the body are defended both by the bones and armor.
On the contrary, a stab, though it penetrates but two inches, is generally fatal.
Besides in the attitude of striking, it is impossible to avoid exposing the right
arm and side; but on the other hand, the body is covered while a thrust is given,
and the adversary receives the point before he sees the sword. This was the method
of fighting principally used by the Romans, and their reason for exercising recruits
with arms of such a weight at first was, that when they came to carry the common
ones so much lighter, the greater difference might enable them to act with greater
security and alacrity in time of action.
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