The swordmasters of Europe sing the praises of this weapon from the beginning of the sixteenth century to its close, by which time its use had almost entirely disappeared. In Scotland, however, it appears to have continued in use for almost another half century, and it has been said that it made an appearance at the battle of Kilhecrankie in 1689.

Nothing could be more business-like than the construction of the stout dams, and nothing more gently rural than the limpid lakes, with the grand old forest trees marshalled round their margins … .

Romsey was able to extend its lead in the premiership quarter, kicking another five goals to three to take a 17-point lead into the final break.

The police caught me driving a buck forty [140 miles per hour] on the freeway.