Salvianus,
Lots of good common sense advise in your post, thank you. I very much agree with you on the "art" of bowing with a sword / sabre on. Having been a Confederate Cavalry Civil War reenactor for more than twenty years I can attest to having good control of your sword in the dismounted fashion to avoid tripping someone or even yourself, or the offhand goose. Been there, seen it done, and have been on the receiving end of it...

Cheers,

Brian