CHAP. I. A discourse of the Postures, and handling of Arms.
HE that will be a compleat Souldier, must first begin to learn the use of his Arms, laying that down in his thoughts for his first foundati∣on. But this hath been the neglect of many in our times, who have strived to know high thoughts in the Art Military, before they can well perform their Postures. Therefore, my advice shall be unto all such that desire to thrive in this Art, that they will not soar too high: but first learn the A, B, C thereof, after which they may proceed by degrees to pronounce to the Souldier with boldness their proficiency therein. He therefore that with safety, ease, and delight desireth to handle his Arms, must set times apart frequently to practise himself therein. And here I cannot but much blame the Of∣ficers of our Trained Bands in London, of two great neglects: The first, in making men File-leaders either out of respect or favour they bear unto them, or else be∣cause one man hath a better Buff-coat than another: I speak not this to encourage any man to come slovenly habited when he shall march forth with his Captain, but rather advise all Souldiers to fit themselves with the best array they can; and could wish all the Serjeants in drawing up their Files, to pitch upon such Gentlemen to be File-leaders, as may take charge of his File, and shall be able, willing, and ready upon all convenient times, to instruct and teach his File in all their Postures, and neat handling of their Arms; which if carefully observed, they would reap the be∣nefit of much ease to themselves and the private Souldiers: readiness in the perfor∣mance of the Postures, would much redound to the honour of the Captain that shall lead them. But for the farther satisfaction of the ingenious Souldier that shall en∣quire what Posture is, I shall briefly resolve them thus:
Posture, as I conceive, is a garbe or figure that a man stands in, in the handling of his Arms; which he useth for the better grace and becoming of them.
There are several motions belonging to each Posture, which some call Postures, but they much deceive themselves, as shall appear clearly unto them (by the survey) as they shall be set down in order. And first, we will begin to set down the Postures of the Pike.