In those days contests were extremely rough and frequently cost the participants their lives. Thus, whenever I sallied forth to take part in any of those affairs, I invariably bade farewell to my parents, since I had no assurance that I should ever return alive.

The Judo pupil, therefore, must cultivate his mind he must never feel fear, never lose his temper, never be off his guard but he must be cool and calm, though not absent-minded he must act as quick as thought, according to circumstances. He must also be dexterous as well as bold both in attack and in defense.