I am not a fencer, but in researching the subject of dueling I have
on several occasions come across the term "shortening the
sword." What does it mean?
Here are two examples of its use in context:
(Byron vs. Chaworth duel-1765)
Chaworth had made the first pass, through his opponent's
waistcoat, and thought he had killed him; but while he was
asking the peer if he were in truth so sorely hurt, Lord Byron
shortened his sword, and stabbed him in the belly.
FROM:
http://engphil.astate.edu/gallery/mayne3.html
(Hamilton vs. Mohun duel-1712)
The dog Mohun was killed on the spot but, while the Duke was
over him, Mohun shortened his sword, stabbed in at the
shoulder to the heart.
FROM:
http://www.dunton.org/DuttonHall/news4.html
Another question:
Does anyone know the date--even an approximate date-- of
Nadi's duel with Cotronei? Has anyone ever come across an
account of this duel other than that written by Nadi?
I appreciate the expertise available in this group and have
enjoyed following the discussion.
--Paul
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