William Hope is mainly known for his "A New Short and Easy Method of Fencing", which unfortunately overshadows his earlier work. "The Compleat Fencing-Master" is basically a reprint of his "The Scots Fencing Master", published in 1687 and one of the earliest treatises on smallsword. Written at the age of 27, it nevertheless contains many valuable observations and insights, which make it a worthwhile read. This book contains a modernized text, which is easier palatable for today's readers, than Hope's somewhat verbose original.