info blade probably 1770 motto ?

[Hotspur]

Originally Posted by fernando

A little correction in the translation could perhaps represent some difference .
In God my hope and my sword for my defence.
... A "motto" that was actualy the title of the first book written by Alberic Magnard (1865-1914), who died defending alone his house from the Germans in 1914.
Magnard has resigned from the Army in 1899 in connection with the famous Dreyfus case. He has entered the Conservatoire in 1886 and his first work was called "En dieu mon esperance et mon epee par mon defence" , which he dedicated to ... his fencing teacher.

Loosely translated, no real difference in meaning and the sword definitely 18th century. The 19th century anecdote interesting but kind of misleading if meant as the source for the motto.

What is the source and first use for the motto Fernando?

Cheers

GC