Question for an Early 18th Century Swordfight

[Andrew Poole]

Greetings! I believe this is my first post here, but I have been researching here for several years now.

I am currently editing a short story that I wrote that is set in the early 18th century and involves a sword fight between a merchant and a British army sergeant at a tavern. The scene is set in 1702, and I'm wanting to set it as accurately as I can. I wondered if the merchant would necessarily carry a small-sword or if he might carry a hunting sword when travelling. If he carried the smallsword, how well would his weapon hold up to his opponent's military hanger? Would he have to be more evasive and use less parries?

Any help in this area is greatly and most humbly appreciated.

~Andy Poole
Ephesians 2:10

[Stacy Clifford]

How wealthy is your merchant? Does he carry a sword for prestige or practicality? Is he in the habit of being prepared for one-on-one duels or protecting his shipments from bandits? Did he inherit the sword from his father, get it from previous employment such as a sailor or soldier, or go out and buy one to suit his needs or his taste? Your answers should give you a better idea what sword the character should carry.