C. Johnson Hist. of Highwaymen &c. 142: We have divers Tradesmens Sons, who not willing to contain themselves, within the narrow bounds of their Father’s scanty Allowance, have made Brothers of the Blade, thinking the Reputation and Garb of the Swordsman, would give them the Air of Gentility.at brother (of the) blade (n.) under brother (of the)..., n.