They are exercised with arquebus and crossbow in the park, and the mounted men are taught to manoeuvre and charge, so that, in case of need, we can show a good face against any body of troops of equal numbers.

It is here I practise with my maitre d'armes, and with Montpace and Bourdon, our two officers.
"Ah! Here is Charles, my maitre d'armes.
"Charles, this is my cousin Philip, who will also be a pupil of yours while he remains here.
"What do you say, Philip?
Will we try a bout with blunted swords just now ?" "With pleasure," Philip said.
The art of fencing had not, at that time, reached the perfection it afterwards attained.

The swords used were long and straight, and sharpened at both edges; and were used as much for cutting as thrusting.

In single combat on foot, long daggers were generally held in the left hand, and were used for the purpose both of guarding and of striking at close quarters.
They put on thick quilted doublets, and light helmets with visors.
"Do you use a dagger, Philip ?" "No, I have never seen one used in England.

We are taught to guard with our swords, as well as to strike with them." "Monsieur has learned from English teachers ?" the maitre d'armes asked.
"I have had English teachers as well as French," Philip said.