Matthew Poole and continuators on John 18:10

10 Then Simon Peter having a sword, drew it, and smote the high priests servant, and cut off his right ear . The servants name was Malchus.

It is thought that this action of Peters was before the apprehension of our Saviour; tho after the discovery of it, (as our Evangelist reports it) because upon the apprehension of our Saviour; both Matthew Chap. 26.56. and Mark Chap. 14.50. agree, that the Disciples fled, and it can hardly be thought, that if Peter had seen his Master apprehended, he would have adventured upon so daring and provocative an action; nor could Christ had he been first bound, have stretched out his hand, to have touched his ear, and healed it. Lest any should wonder how Peter came by a Sword, we may read Luke 22.38. that the Disciples had two Swords amongst them, probably brought out of Galilee for the defence of themselves and their Master, against assaults from robbers in that long journey.

Marginal references: Mat. 26.51. Mark 14.47.