OAK ST. HDSF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS LIBRARY From the collection of Julius Doerner, Chicago Purchased, 1918. This Boo/lhas Seen treated for moCd on: It is now safe to handSe THE 0 OOMPAI^Y DEILL OF THE ^ INFANTRY OF THE LINE, TOOETHEB WITH THE SKIRMISHING DRILL OP THE coSpany and battalion, AFTER THE METHOD OF GEN. LE LOFTEBEL. / BAYONET FENCING. With a Supplement on the Handling and Service of Light Infantry. » BY J. MONROE, OOL. 22d regiment, N.Y. 8. militia; formerly CAPTAIN UNITED STATES INFANTRY. NEW YORK: D. VAN NOSTRAND, 102 BROADWAY. 1863. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1862, by D. VAN NOSTRAND, In the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern District of New York, 0. A. ALVOED, STEREOTYPEE AND PRINTER. PREFACE. More than a year ago the author of this small volume, executed the translation of about one- fourth of the Battalion Exercise of General lie Louterel, but avocations both civil and military interrupted the work, and in the mean time Lip- pincott, of Philadelphia, brought out the translation of the drill of the Battalion and the Evolutions of the Line, by Captain Ooppee. But the Company Drill has not till now been offered to the public. I have modified the original so far as to conform to the existing system. The method of Le Louterel must have been well received in France. I have seen the seventh edition of his work. An examination of the volume will best explain the peculiarities that distinguish it. Le Louterel did not apply his system to the skirmishing drill, further than the deployment and rally of the hat- talion. It will be found applied in this volume to the whole of the skirmishing drill. In addition to tlie introduction of the doubling and undoubling of filos (not found in the original), I have system- 6 PEEPACE. atically compared the movements with the French Ordonnance of 1861 . The Bayonet Fencing is taken from the same Ordonnance. It is remarkable for its simplicity and the great facility of its acquisition, and it carries the approval of the highest authority of France. In the supplement will be found some sugges- tions that will perhaps be acceptable to the intelli- gent classes who now fill the army, and who, how- ever unused formerly to military ideas, adopt the leading principle of aiming to improve whatever they engage in. Some allowance for trifling errors may be need- ed, in consequence of the fact that the volume comes out during the absence of the author in the field. CONTENTS PAGE. General principles of fencing 11 Fencing with the bayonet 14 Shortenings 26 Lessons for practice 29 School of the company 31 To open ranks 32 Alignments in open ranks 33 Manual of arms (in open ranks). 34 To close ranks 35 Alignments and manual in closed ranks 85 Loading in four times and at will 36 The fire by company 37 The fire by file 38 The fire by rank 39 The fire by the rear rank 39 To advance in line of battle 42 To halt and align the company 43 Oblique march in line of battle 44 The march in retreat 45 The march by the fiank 48 To change direction by file 50 To halt the company and face it to the front 50 Doubling and undoubling files 51 8 CONTENTS. PAGE. To form the company on the right or left by file into Irae '. 53 The company marching by the flank to form company or platoon, and to face them in marching 57 To break into Column by platoon 61 To march into column 65 To change direction. 66 To halt the column 69 Being in column, to form to the right or left into line 70 To break into platoons and to re-form the company. 73 To break files to the rear, and to bring them again into line 77 The march in column of route 80 Countermarch 86 To form column by platoon on the right or left into line — 88 Formation of the company from one rank into two ranks, and reciprocally, and from two ranks into four, and reciprocally 92 The company in two ranks being in march by the front, and right in front 96 Deployments 99 To deploy forward 99 To deploy by the flank 105 To extend and to close intervals 109 To close intervals 112 To support and to relieve skirmishers 114 The movement of deployed lines 116 To advance the line 116 CONTENTS. 9 PAGE. The firings 120 To fire marching to the front 120 To fire marching in retreat 121 To fire marching by the flank 121 The rallies 123 To rally by sections 125 Eally by platoons 127 Rally on the reserve 128 Skirmishers in square and column 130 The assembly 133 Assemble on the reserve 134 Manoeuvres of skirmishers 135 Deployment of skirmishers from column 140 Rallies 142 Smpplement 143 Rallies 148 Flank deployments, &c 151 Changes of front 152 Flankers 154 Advanced guard 155 Rearguard..., 157 BAYONET FENCING. GENEKAL PBINCIPIES OF FENCING. Fencino is the opposition of force with the edge or point of weapons held in the hand, and resem- bles both^xing with the closed hand and hurling a missile. It depends upon the correct attitude and movements of the body, and the lines of direction of the instrument, or weapon, employed. The body resting erect upon the feet brought to- gether, is supported upon a base that is narrow and consequently weak— a slight pressure, in that case, will overset it, and the higher the point of such pressure, the less the overturning force re- quired ; but when one foot is advanced, the side turned, and the rearward line of the body slanted, as nature herself instructs, when a weight is to be heaved, or an obstacle pushed, or resisted, the po- sition is many times stronger. The base of sup- port has been broadened, the height of the figure lessened, and the relations of mutual support so established as , to apply the true leverage of the whole framework. The body so propped and poised, the weapon (say, a sword) is to be advanced in such a manner that it may, at one and the same time, protect the BAYONET FENCING. i.2 fencer and menace his adversary. This, referring to both the man and sword, constitutes the posi- tion of gua/rd. Guards then, is a position in which to defend or attack. Parry is a movement made from gua.rd, with the weapon, to meet and ward off an adversary’s at- tack. Thrust (lunge) or cut is a directing of the point, or edge, against the adversary. From every parry a thrust may be delivered — this is called counter-thrusting. From every thrust or parry, you maj^ return di- rectly to the position of guard. There are two general relations of the weapon from which all the rest are derived. These are carte and tierce. Carte guard and carte parries are inside ; and tierce are outside. That is, carte is on the side of the breast, and tierce on the side of the back. For example, with the sword, where it is the right foot and side that are advanced, carte is the guard, or the parades, made toward the fen- cer’s left, meant to cover attacks on that side. Tierce, in all respects, the opposite. But with the bayonet, the case is reversed, because then it is the left side and foot that are in advance. Here, therefore, the carte side of the weapon is that to its right, and tierce is outward or left. Feint. — To menace an attack in one direction, and deliver it in another. It is, as the word im- ports, a movement intended to deceive the adver- sary, or to throw him off his guard. Timing is anticipating an adversary by project- ing a thrust at him in the very moment that he is GENERAL PRINCIPLES. ]3 preparing himself to thrust. None but an expert fencer can execute effectively the time thrust. The simple and direct thrusts are the best. Complex combinations are good for exercise and practice, as they confer facility of action. Opposition^ is the outward bearing of the weap- on when a thrust is delivered, intended to bear the adverse point out of line. It must always be pre- served, otherwise there is danger of an interchanged thrust. In thrusting, let the point reach its limit at the moment the hody is thrown forward to its extent. Let the viUe act be simultaneous. It is nCTR* safe to take the point off the body of a skilful antagonist. It should be constantly kept interposed, even in the parries. (In the instances of using the butt of the piece, the guardls supposed to be broken up, and then the butt itself stands in lieu of point.) The point, in guards should be so far raised as that the upper parries, inside and out, may cover the hody^ from the head to the legs. A thrust cannot be made, with the bayonet, at the lower limbs, without fatally exposing the thruster. Hence parries below are unnecessary and inartful, because in making such parries, the return thrusts from them would be the adoption and imitation of that which is itself a fault. The French system has wisely discarded all the low parries and thrusts. AU hanging guards, wherein tue position of the ' piece when on guard {point higher than hilt) is re- versed, that is, positions that throw up the butt and drop the point, are weak and unreliable. 2 14 BAYONET FENCINa. The weapon may, in its length, be divided into three equal parts. The first third is that nearest to the holder ; this is the forte, or strong part of the weapon ; the second part is the medium or middle, and the last is the faiUe or weak part. The lever- age or universal principle of all fencing is, by move- ments and fiexures of the body and limbs, and by collisions of the pieces to bring one’s forte into con- test with, the faille of the adversary. When art does this, mere strength cannot reply to it. The short treatise which follows is taken entire from the French system of 1 8 6 1 . It is much simpli- fied, and having been revised by their Jjftrd of offi- cers, as stated in the Emperor’s decrepit may be regarded as the result and selection out of the nu- merous methods proposed of late years, in France. Its distinguishing features are: 1st. Natural and simple methods of movement. • 2d. The employ- ment of upward guards and parries only. 3d. The discarding of the development, as unsuited to a two- handed and weighty weapon — such as the mus- ket and bayonet — ^which is a true pike. FENCING WITH THE BAYONET. The men are formed in one rank with intervals of four paces between them, in order that they may not interfere with one another when they are executing the volts. The pieces are carried at the right shoulder, that BAYONET FENCING-. 15 is, in the “Light Infantry,” or sergeant’s manner of carrying the small arm.* The soldier, or the squad, being at shouldered arms, the instructor commands : 1. Guard against infantry. 2. Guard. * Piece in right hand — barrel nearly vertical, and resting in hollow of shoulder — guard to the front, right arm ex- tended nearly to its full length, thumb and fore-finger em- bracing the guard — the other fingers closed on the handle of the piece — little-finger supporting the dog (the plate along the right thigh)— the left hand by the left side. 16 BAYONET FENCING. • One time and two motions. First motion. — Make a half-face to the right in turning on the heels, bringing the left toe to the front and the right toe to the right, the feet square to each other ; raise at.the same time, the piece slightly, and seize it with the left hand above and near the lower band. Second motion.— Carry the right foot twenty inches to the rear, its heel on a perpendicular line with the left heel, the feet at right angles, the knees slightly bent, the weight of the body borne equally by the two legs ; bring do’V^fc the piece with both hands, the barrel upward, tiBleft elbow against the ^ body; seize the piece at the same time below the guard {i. e. at the' handle), with the right hand, the arms falling naturally, the bayonet slightly elevated. (The left arm is consequently a little bent.) Shoulder Arms. Raise the piece with the left hand, place it against the right shoulder, and at the same time, bring up the right heel on the alignment of the left, in facing to the front. 1. Guard against cavalry. 2. Guard. The same as “guard against infantry,” except that the right hand rests at the hip, and the bayo- net is at the height of the eye, as in the movement of “ charge bayonet.” The men placed in either of the foregoing posi- BAYONET FENCING. 17 tions of “ guard,” will execute the following move- ments : 1. Right {or left), 2. Face. Turn on the left heel, raising the toe, and face to the right (or left), at the same time carry around the right foot one quarter of the circle, and twenty inches in rear of the left. 1. Right about 2. Face. Turn about to the rear, by the right on the left 2 * , 18 BAYONET FENCING. heel, raising the left toe, without altering the posi- tion of the piece, and carry the right foot around to the rear, twenty inches from the left. 1. Left about. 2. I’ ace. Turn on the left heel, to the left, the reverse of the last movement above. 1. Step to the front 2. March. Bring up the right foot behind the left, and carry the left twenty inches in adva^Re of the right (keeping the knee bent during the move- ment). 1. Step to the rear. 2. March.. Draw back the left foot against the right, and plant the right to the rear twenty inches. 1. Step to the right 2. March. Throw the right foot twenty inches to the right, and in the same direction, immediately carry the left foot in front of it, at its proper distance and position. 1. Step to the left. 2. March. Throw the left foot twenty inches to the left, and promptly place the right foot at its proper distance in rear. BAYONET FENCING. 19 1. Double step to the front 2. March. Throw the right foot twenty inch-es in front of the left, and briskly plant the left, twenty inches in advance of the right, preserving the position of “ guard.” 1. Double step to the rear. 2. March. Throw the left foot fourteen inches to the rear of the right (passing it on its left), and carry the right twenty inches in rear of the left, preserving the position of “ guard.” 1. Volt to the right, 2. March. Bring up the left arm and hand, the barrel op- posite the left shoulder, without moving the right hand. Turn to the right on the right toe, throw the left foot perpendicularly to the rear twenty inches, finishing the volt on the left toe, and bring- ing the right foot to its position in rear, at the same time bring the piece to the position of “ guard.” 1. Volt to the left. 2. March. Turn to the left on the right toe, carry the left foot perpendicularly to the rear twenty inches, and finish the volt in a way the reverse, of the above. When the men are well established in these various positions, and can execute the sevei^l steps and volts with ease and precision, they will be taught the attack and defence with the bayonet. 20 BAYONET FENCING. 1. In carte. 2. Parry, At the second command, lift the muzzle a full foot (thirteen inches) with the left hand, without moving the right, at the same time make a parry to the right of about six inches, and remain in that position. GrUARD. Lower promptly the left hand without moving the right, and bring back the piece to the position of “ guard.” Whenever the instructor causes the parries and thrusts to be executed, he will at the end of each movement command “ guard,” at which the men will resume that position. 1. In tierce. 2. Parry. Raise promptly the piece one foot with the left hand, without moving the right, at the same time making a parry with the piece to the left, about six inches. 1. In 'prime. 2. Parry. Spring up the piece to cover the head, holding it with both hands and the arms fully extended,' the lockplate turned toward the body, the bayo- net slightly inclined to the left, the lower band at the height of the top of the cap (the piece is BAYONET FENCING. 21 nearly horizontal, butt to the rear, point to the front, hands held vertical). 1. In prime to the right 2. Parry. Advance the left shoulder .and parry prime to- ward the right. 1. In prime to the left. 2. Parry. Advance the right shoulder, and parry in prime to the left. 22 BAYONET FENCING. The last two parries are to oppose attacks from above — as from cavalry or a breast- work. The prime parry is intended as a general pro- tection for the head ; the piece is moved around in the two hands as if on a pivot. — Translator. 1. In carte. 2. Thrust. i From the position of “guard,” throw forward the weight of the body, bend the left knee and BAYONET FENCING. 23 straighten the right, project the left arm to its full extent, the fingers of the left hand opened and sus- taining the piece, the butt in front of the nipple of the right breast, and the lockplate underneath. Remain in this position until the command “ guard.” Turning the lockplate underneath, gives the piece in the thrust a rotatory action. — Translator, 1. In tierce. 2. Thrust. 24 BAYONET FENCING. Throw forward the upper part of the body, straighten the right leg, and bend the left knee, extend the left arm to its full length, the fingers opened, and sustaining the piece, turn the guard, lockplate upward, guard to the right, the butt in front of the right breast (its nipple). 1. In prime. 2. Thrust, Raise the piece with both hands, the arms ex- N BAYONET FENCING. 25 the left knee, and straighten the right, at the same time direct the point in thrusting the height of an adversary on horseback. 1. In;grime to the right {or left). 2. Thrust. Advance the left shoulder, and thrust to the right (or the right shoulder, and thrust to the left). 3 26 BAYONET FENCING. The thrust of prime has three general directions — direct to the front, to the right, and to the left — answering to the prime parried. — Translator. Longe. Throw forward the upper part of the Body, bending the left leg, and straightening the right, push rapidly the point toward the adversary the whole length of the right arm, abandoning it for the moment with the left, and come back to guard (without any command). When on guard, as “against infantry,” the blow (in thrusting) will be directed at the height of the breast. In the guard against cavalry, the point will be directed at the height of a horse’s head, or a horse- man’s side. Shortenings. The shortenings of the guard are necessary in a melee, or in foiling an attempt to break within the guard. They should be as simple, natural, and rapidly formed as possible, and permit an instant return to the guard. 1. In carte. 2. Shorten. From either guard (against infantry or cavalry), throw back the piece to the full extension of the right arm, slipping the left hand up at the same time, to the baypnet clasp, left hand at the centre of the breast. BAYONET FENCING. 27 Guard. Throw forward the piece, to the position of guard, bringing back the left hand. 1. In tierce. 2. Shorten. Throw the piece upward, and backward to the extend of the right arm, turning the barrel under- neath, slipping the left hand to the bayonet clasp, the hand at the centre of the upper part of the breast, the piece nearly horizontal. 28 BAYONET FENCINO. Lower rapidly the piece to guard, turning tlio barrel upward, and replacing the left hand. After the men have perfectly learned the vari- ous steps, parries, and thrusts, they will be taught to combine them, as follows : 1. Double step to the front, in prime parry, and thrust. 2. Makch. At the word of execution — March — the soldier BAYONET FENCING. 29 will execute the douUe step, will parry^ and will thrust in prime. As a soldier may be compelled to defend himself against two or three men at once, he will be made to execute double movements, and double thrusts, which will considerably increase his skill and ac- tivity, for example : 1. One pace to the front — Loaige — Yoli to the left — In carte parry and thrust 2. March. At the command March, step to the fronts hnge (take the position of guard), execute the volt to the left^ parry in carte and thrust carte. Lessons for Practice. I. 1. In carte parry — In carte thrust. 2. In foerce.PARRY — In tierce thrust. 3. In carte thrust — In carte parry. 4. In tierce thrust — In tierce parry. 5. In prime parry — In prime thrust. 6. In prime thrust — In prime parry. *7. Guard against infantry — Guard against CAVALRY. 8. Guard against cavalry — Guard against in- fantry. . II. 1. In carte parry — In tierce parry. 2. In tierce parry — In carte parry. 3. In carte parry — In prime parry. 4. In tierce parry — In prime parry: 5. In prime parry — In^ carte parry. 6. In prime parry — In tierce parry. ^ 3* 30 BAYONET FENCING. 7. In carte^ in tierce^ in prime parry. 8. In tierce^ in carte^ in prime parry. 9. Inprime^ in carte^ in tierce parry. 10. Inprime^ in tierce^ in carte parry. m. 1. In carte thrust, in prime parry, in prime THRUST. 2. In prime parry, in prime to the left thrust, in carte parry, in carte thrust. 3. In tierce thrust, in prime parry, in prime to the left THRUST, in tierce parry. 4. In carte — tierce — prime^ parry, in prime thrust. 5. In tierce — carte — prime parry, in prime thrust. 6. In prime — carte^ and tierce parry, in tierce thrust. *7. In prime — tierce — carte parry, in carte thrust. The foregoing movements originate from the position of guards and when finished, the soldier at once returns to guards without any order. The movements may be combined with the steps, the volts and the facings. The chief point required is facility in handling the piece correctly in the various oppositions and attacks. The at- tainment of this divides itself into two parts: 1st, the readiness to throw the piece and person into the several individual positions, and 2d, the rapid transition from one position to another. * The nicety of the sword exercise is inapplicable to the bayonet — the principles that govern the two are the same — but the applications vary widely. The dispute with the bayonet is necessarily brief, and its whole handling ought to be simple and direct. SCHOOL OF THE COMPANY. The first sergeant commands, Fall in^ repeated by the other sergeants. The corporals and privates form in two ranks in the order of height from right to left — the tallest corporal on the right and the shortest on the left of the front rank — distance between the ranks thirteen inches — the pieces at order arms. The first sergeant then places himself four paces in front of the centre, facing to the company, and calls the roll. This finished, he faces about, and reports the result to the officer commanding the company, who at a position four paces in rear of the sergeant, has superintended the roU-call. The sergeant next takes post on the right of the front rank, when the captain marks off the platoons and sections, and places the taller of the remaining two corporals on the left of the first platoon, and the other corporal on the right of the second, both in the front rank. The first platoon must have an even number of files. The captain then commands. In each rank — count twos — when the two men of the first file caH out one^ those of the next file two^ the third file .owe, the fourth file two, and so on to the left. The files thus numbered, the file-closers take their posts, two paces in rear of the rear rank. 32 TO OPEN RANKS. Commands Explanations. OP Instructor, OF Capt. or Lt. FIRST LESSON. To open ranks. The company being at ordered arms, the instructor directs the left guide to place him- self on the left of the front rank, and then commands The right and left guides step to rear the distance of four paces (of 28 inches). The in- structor, at the right flank, sees that they mark correctly the alignment for th.e rear rank The rear rank steps to the rear, and is ahgn- ed between the two guides by the first ser- geant The left guide takes 1. Attention. 2. Company. 3. Shoulder arms. 4. To the rear open order. 5. March. 6. Front. ALIGNMENTS IN OPEN BANKS. 33 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. hi.«i post as a file-closer, and the rank of’ file- closers place themselves two paces from the rear rank. « Alignments in open ranks. Having marched two, or four, men on the right or the left of each rank two or three paces for- ward, the instructor commands The men of each rank move upon the line suc- cessively, preceded by their neighbor on the side of the alignment two paces, align them- selves on the basis, and cast eyes to the front without a command. After the successive alignments, the ranks are aligned entire (on a basis as above) forward, backward, and on a line parallel or oblique to the original one. The in- Byjile (right or left) — Dress. 34 MANUAL OF ARMS (iN OPEN RANKS). Commands Explanations. OF Insteu-ctor. of Capt. or Lt. structor commands .... 1. Right (or I^kess. 2. Front. OR 1. Right (or Uft) back- ward., Dress. 2. Front. TVTieii the alignment is oblique, in opened ranks, the rear rank men need not cover their file leaders. lu. all the ahgnments, the captain and covering sergeant are on the flank of the side of alignment — each superintends his rank, and when these are open, passes, after each aligning, along its front, to make corrections. Manual of arms (in open ranks). The instructor, placed on both ranks, commands the ing order : Present arms. Order arms. Ground arms. Raise arms. Support arms. Fix bayonet Charge bayonet Trail arms. Unfia^ bayonet Secure arms. Load in nine times. the flank so as to see manual in the foUow- Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms. Shoulder arms ALIGNMENTS AND MANUAL IN CLOSED RANKS. 35 Commands Explanations. ' OF 1 OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. To close ranks. 1. Close order. 2. Maech. The rear rank closes on the front, each man directing himself on his file leader. Banks are always opened and closed in quick time. Alignments and manual in closed ranks. Every thing is exe- cuted as in opened ranks, except that the captain, not the in- structor, commands . . . and except that, in the manual. Ground arms, Raise arms, and Secure arms, are omitted. If the instructor wishes to rest the men, still preserving the al- ignment, at an order, or support, he commands The men will keep one or other heel on the alignment. 2. Fronx, In place. Rest. 36 LOADING IN \ FOUR TIMES AND AT WILL. t Commands Explanations. OP Instructo I. OP Capt. or Lt. But if he wish to rest without keeping the dress Rest. And the men merely do not quit their ranks. After the latter rest (but not after the for- mer), the ranks are to be dressed anew, when-} ever the command is given 1. AMe/nMon, 2. Company, 3. Shoulder — 'Arms. As a more complete rest, the instructor may, at ordered arms, command Stack arms, and, 1. Break ranks. 2. March, afterward re-forming the company by the commands. Fall in, and Take arms. SECOND LESSON. Loading in four times and at will. These two loadings are executed as in the School of the Soldier. In both of them the cap- tain and covering sergeant half face to the right with the men at prime, and face to the front when the company (or the man on their left) shoulders. THE FIRE BY COMPANY. 37 Commands Explanations. OP Instructor. 1 OF 1 Capt. or Lt. The fire by company. The instructor The covering ser- geant falls back into the line of file-closers,, and the captain places himself four paces in rear of that line oppo- site the centre of the 1. Fire hy com- pany. company The captain adds. . . The pieces being re- loaded and at a ready, the captain repeats the 2. Commence firing. 1. Company., 2. Ready. 3. Aim. 4. Fire. 5. Load. last three commands till the roll. * To stop the firing. . . To recall the captain Cease firing. Ceobse firing. and sergeant into line.. Posts. The captain and covering sergeant take the same positions, and are recalled into line in the same way, in all the firings. A roll of the drum and a tap are substituted, when cartridges are em- ployed, for the last two commands, and, in that 4 38 TUE FIRE BY FILE. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. case, the file-closers repeat the command, Cease firing. The captains wifi sometimes . command, before Aim And sometimes after Aim The fire by file. Bight (or left) ohUque, Recofjer Arms. The instructor The captain and cov- ering sergeant take post as in the fire by com- pany The fire begins on the right. The first file fires, and the second aims as the pieces of the first are brought down to reload. This progres- sion applies only to the first discharge. To stop the firing. . . 1. Fire hy file. 2. Company. 3. Eeady. 4. Gomme/nce firing. Cease firing (or Boll.) Cease firing.. To recall captain and sergeant Posts (or Tap.) THE FIRE BY THE REAR .RANK. 39 Commands Explanations. OF Instkuctoe. OF Capt. or Lt. The fire by rank. The instructor com- mands l.Fire by rank. Captain and covering sergeant take posts . . . 2. Compa/ny. After one or two pieces in the rear rank are at a ready 3. Ready. 4. Rear rank. Aim. 5. Fike. 6. Load. 1. Front rank. The fire alternates between the ranks till the signal to cease fi- ring. The fire may be oblique, and pieces may be recovered as in the fire by company. 2. Aim. 3. Fike. 4. Load. The fire by the rear rank. The instructor . . The captain places 1. Face hy the\ rear rank. 40 THE FIRE BY THE REAR RANK. Commands Explanations. OF Instructoe. OF Capt. oe Lt. himself one pace in front of the right file facing to it, the covering sergeant one pace be- hind him. The file- dosers pass through the captain’s interval, and in rear of the sergeant, posting themselves op- posite their places in line, and facing to the rear 2. Compa/n/y. 3. About — The captain and ser- geant post themselves in the interval, after the company faces about. The captain in the rear (now front) rank, cov- ered by the sergeant in the front (now rear) rank. The fires are executed as by the front rank, and by the same com- mands. The fire ly file commences on the (now) right, and that l)y rank with the (now) rear rank. Face. THE FIRE BY THE REAR RANK. 41 Commands Explanations. OF Instktjctopw OF Capt. or Lt. To bring back the company to its proper front. ' 1. Face by the front rank. 2. Company, 3. About — Face. The captain, covering sergeant, and file-clo- sers execute all that has been said for facing by the rear rank. 9 I I I I i -iTnvrrrn-rM.i.L niMMi r n a iL ^ h 6 TO ADVANCE IN LINE OF BATTLE.-^ 4 * 42 TO ADVANCE IN LINE OF BATTLE. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. THIRD LESSON. To advance in line of battle. The instructor throws himself twenty-five or thirty paces in front, faces to the captain and cov- ering sergeant, places himself on their direction, and then commands . . . 1. Company — Forward. A sergeant, previous- ly designated, places himself six paces in advance of the captain, and is assured in the direction by the instruc- tor to whom he faces, after which this ser- geant takes points on the ground in the right line which, drawn from himself, would pass be- tween the heels of the instructor, who com- mands 2. March. The men take the touch of the elbows toward the side of the directing sergeant ; the one next to the captain marches a little in rear of him, pre- serving the fine of his shoulders parallel with his. The captain marches in the trace of the directing TO HALT AND ALIGN THE COMPANY. 45 Commands Explanations. OP Instkuctoe. OF Capt. oe Lt. sergeant, keeping the distance of six paces be- tween them. If the men lose the step, the instructor com- mands To the STEP, at which they recover it by a glance at the directing sergeant. The captain and directing sergeant may be placed either on the right or left flank, and the ranks may be either opened or closed. To halt and align the company. The instructor com- mands 1. Company. 2. Halt. The directing ser^ geant remains in front, unless ordered to retire. If the alignment is very defective, the instruc- tor advances two or four flies, on the side of di- rection for a basis, and aligns the company on it. But if it be not so he simply commands Captain recti- fy the align- m&nt. The captain directs this or that flle forward^ or back, in the front, and the covering ser- geant does the same in the rear rank. 44 OBLIQUE MARCH IN LINE OF BATTLE. Commands. Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. Oblique march in line of battle. The company being in the direct march The directing ser- geant maintains his shoulders squarely in oblique line. The cap- tain conforms his march to that of the sergeant. The men in the rear rank march in rear of the man next to their file leaders, dressing toward the side on which the oblique is made. To resume the direct march 1. Right (or left) oblique. 2. March. 1. Forward. 2. March. The company ceases to oblique, and marches direct. The instructor, from a point twenty paces in front of the captain, rectifies the direction, if needed, of the direct- ing sergeant. 1 THE MARCH IN RETREAT. 45 Commands Explanations. OF j OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. The obli^Tie may be either to the side of direc- tion, or to the other side. In either case the guide is, during the oblique march, on that side to which the company obliques. To mark time l. Marh Ume. 2. Maech. To resume the march To take the double- quick step To pass from double- quick to quick time . . . 1. Forward. 2. Makch. 1 . DoubU-qvAcJc 2. March. 1. Quick time. 2. March. Fifteen or twenty steps at a time may be taken in the back step by the command 1. Company 'backward. 2. March. The march in retreat. The company being at a halt 1 . Company. 2. About— Face. The instructor places himself twenty-five or thirty paces in front, 4 46 THE MARCH m RETREAT. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. 1 OF 1 Capt. or Lt. faced to the covering sergeant, and on the direction of this ser- geant and the captain . 1. Compawy., Forward. The covering ser- geant goes into the rank of file-closers, the captain into the place quitted by the sergeant. The directing sergeant places himself six paces in advance of the line of file-closers, and is assured on the dir’ec- tion, as in the advance in line 2. March. The *march is executed as when faced by the front rank. The company returns to its proper front, by the same commands, as above, the cap- tain and covering sergeant resuming their habitual places. The only difference is, that the directing sergeant retires at once without an order. The company marching in line, whether in ad- vance or retreat, the instructor may pass from one to the other by the I command l. Company. % Right ahout\ . 3. March. < THE MARCH m RETREAT. 47 Commands Explanatioxs. OF iNSTRIfCTOR. OF Capt. oe Lt. The - directing ser- geant will take his place promptly, assured on his direction by the in- structor. In aU other respects the movement is executed as if it had been begun from a halt. If, instead of 3. March above, the instructor commands 3. SoMt The company faces about in marching, and then halts. In other respects, it is as if it had first halted and then faced about. The company will march in fine, ifi ad- vance, ^d retreat, and obhquely, by the com- mand 1. Dou1)Z6— preceded by the same command quick, 2. MARcn. as in quick time. If the pieces are shifted to the right shoulder, the rear rank, by shortening the first steps, will increase its distance, if in quick time, to sixteen inches, and if in double-quick io twenty-six inches. At the command, halt^ the pieces are br 9 ught to 4s THE MARCH BY THE FLANK. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Instructor. 1 Capt. or Lt. the shoulder, and the rear rank closes to thirteen inches. If the pieces are trailed at the double- quick^ they are to be shouldered, when the company halts — the same as when the time is quick and the \ pieces at a support. E 6 E3 El e5 □ COMPANY RIGHT F*ACE. FOURTH LESSON. The march hy the flank. The company being in line, and at a halt. . 1 . Company, . right— The whole having faced, the files double, the rear rank men and file-closers taking a side THE mJ6iCH*BY the FLANK. 49 Commands Explanations. OP Insthtjctoii. OF Capt. OR Lt. step to the right. The captain and covering sergeant take a side step to the left, so that the sergeant may be in front of the first man of the front rank, and the cap- tain on the left of the ser- geant. To move forward . . . 2. Forward. 3. March. The company faces to the left by substituting for rights above. The left guide places him- self before the leading man of the front rank, the captain on the guide’s right, and the right guide behind the last man of the front rank. ^ <□ <{] B BY FILE LEFT MARCH. 50 CHANGING FILES. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OP Instrtjctoe. 1 Capt. or Lt. To change direction by file. The company march- ing by the right flank, or at a halt 1 . Sy (or right.) 2. Maech. left To whichever side the turn is made the man on the inside short- ens five or six of his steps, and the one on the outside takes steps of the usual length. Both describe an arc of a circle. The touch of elbows is always to the side of the front rank man. To halt the company and face it to the front, The instructor com- mands 1. Company. 2. IlaXt. 3. Feont. • The company faces to the left^ if it had been faced by the right flank, and vice versa. In both DOUBLING AND UNDOUBLING FILES. 51 Commands Explanations. OF Instbuctob. OF Capt. OB Lt. cases the files undouble and the rear rank and file-closers close to their distance, the captain and the two guides re- take their places as in line of battle. Doubling and undoubling files. The company, in line of battle and marching to the front, the instructor may command* 1. Company ly the right flank. 2. Halt. The company will face in marching halt, and immediately double the files. The company may be halted by the left flank, on the same principle. The company marching by the right (or left) flank, the instructor may command 1* Company hy the left (or right) flank. 2. Halt. * Casey’s Tactics. The practice of these movements will facilitate the doubling and uudoubling when it march. 52 DOUBLING AND UNDOUBLING FILES. Commands Explanations. OF Instructoe. OF Capt. or Lt. The company will face to the front (or rear) in marching, halt, and undouble files. - If in facing to the right or left the company becomes faced to the rear, the numbers undouble so as never to intervert the order of the two kinds of numbers in t)iQranh: that is, if the rank were to be then faced mout, the order of the numbers, counting from the same flank is the same. (If the face is from the right flank face to the rear, the odd step up to the left of the even numbers. If from the left flank face^ to the rear, the even step up to the right of the odd numbers.) But, being in any way faced to the rear then facing to either flank, the doubling is precisely the reverse of what takes place When facing from the front. For example, the company being faced to the rear, when the command is given by the in- structor. 1. Bytheleft flank. 2. Halt (or 2. Makch). The company faces to its left, and the even numbers place them' selves on the left of the gdd. If, instead, the m* TO FORM THE COMPAXY. 53 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. 1 OF 1 Capt. or Lt. structor fiank . 2. Halt. The odd numbers (or 2 March), place themselves to the right of the even num- bers.* If, in facing to the right or left in march- ing, the company be- comes faced to the rear, • the captain places him- self two paces in rear of the centre, and the guides pass into the leading rank . Note. “ The movements of doubling and un- doubling when passing from the flank march to the front march, ought not to be too precipitate, in order to avoid confusion .” — French Ordonnance^ 1861. To form the company on the right or left by file into line. The company march- i ing by the right flank. ;1* On the right ^ ^ ^ \ hy file into ! line . 1 2. March. * Otherwise the position of the guides would he deranged. 5* crm 5 cm ^ cm ^ TO FORM THE COMPANY BY FILE INTO LINE. 55 Commands Explanations. OF Instbuctop.. of Capt. ob Lt. The rear rank marks time (doubled). The captain and covering sergeant turn ‘to the right, march forward, and are halted by the instructor at •i at the least, beyond the rank of file-closers. The captain places himself on the alignment for the front rank, the covering sergeant on that for the rear rank, and behind the captain, each directing the alignment of his rank as their men arrive on it. The first file of the front rank, having contin- ued the march, wheel to the right so soon as they have passed the sergeant, march abreast toward the line, at two paces from it undouble, by the even numbers shortening his step for the odd number to pass before him ; the latter inching to the right places himself on the captain’s left, and the even number obliquing to the left takes his place on the left of the odd number. The next two of the front-rank men pass beyond ljie last two, turn to the right, and arrive on the line in the same manner, and so on, in succession, to the left of the rank. The rear-rank men, doubled, execute the same thing, taking care to mafk time till they see four men of the front rank on the line, and to cover accurately their file leaders. Marching by the left flank the formation follows the same principles, left being substituted for right 56 THE COMPANY MARCHINa BY THE FLANK. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Instritctob. 1 Capt. OR Lt. in the command above. It is the odd number that shortens his Step, and the even that precedes, in undoubling on the line. The captain and left guide remain at the left, till the instructor directs them to take their posts in line of battle. The in- structor should be placed opposite the right (or left) file to mark the basis of alignment, and, that done should pass along the front, to observe the files as they arrive on the line. The company marching by the flank to form com- pany or platoon, and to face them in marching. The company marching by the right flank, the instructor orders the captain to form it into line who, facing to his com- pany, commands The covering sergeant marches straight on. The men advance the right shoulder, take the double-quick step, un- doubling the files, and by the shortest route place themselves on the alignment of the sergeant, taking the step from him. The rear-rank men follow their file leaders. The 1 1. By com- pany into line. 2. Makch. 58 THE CO^fPANY MARCHINO BY THE FLANK. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. company formed, in line, the captain com- mands Guide left. Th§ left guide places himself on the left of the front rank, and the captain two paces in front of the centre. If the company is marching by the left hank, the commands and means of execution are the same, and the last command is guide rights when the covering sergeant becomes the guide, the sec- ond sergeant remaining on the left of the front rank. In a company which is, or is supposed to be, part of a column, these two sergeants are always posted as above, and one or other is charged with the direction. They are styled right and left guide respectively. If (marching by either flank) the company had faced about before coming into line, the files so undouble that numbers one and two of the front rank arrive on . the line together and abreast, the rear-rank men of their group obliquing to cover them in file. The instructor wish- ing to form platoons, instead of company as above, gives the order to the captain, who. THE COirPA.XY MARCHING BY THE FLANK. 59 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. facing to the company, 1. Byplatoon^ into line. Tlie captain places himself before the cen- tre of the first platoon, the first-lieutenant pass- 2. March. ing by its right flank before that of the sec- ond. the men move, into line as in the last in- stance, the platoons formed, each chief com- mands GvAde left. At this, the first ser- geant passing rapidly along the front, places himself on the left of his platoon, and the second sergeant takes the left of the second. When the march is by the left flank the princi- ples are the same. Both the captain and first- lieutenant pass around the left of the company, each to place himself in front of his platoon ; each gives the command, guide right, and it is the guide of the second platoon that passes to its right. All these movements may be executed by direct commands of the instructor. The instructor will exercise the company in passing from the front to the flank march, and re- 60 THE COMPANY MARCHING BY THE FLANK. Commands Explanations. OF Insteitctoe. OF Capt. oe Lt. ciprocally, by the com- mands 1. Company by the (right or left) 2. Maech. Being in column by platoon, the platoons may- be marched by their right or left flanks by the same commands. At the first command the chiefs and guides will shift to the indicated flank. The instructor may likewise face about the column in marching by( the commands l. Company right about. 2. Maech (or 2. Halt). Adding, in the first case Guide right (or left). Marching in column by platoon, the march may be continued in the same direction, the right in front by the command, 1 . Company by the right flank. 2. By file left. Maech. The chief and guide of the second platoon pass through the inter- val to their places as file-closers, just before they have conducted TO BREAK INTO COLUMN BY PLATOON. 61 Commands Explanations. OP Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. the right of their pla- toon to unite with the left of the first. With the left in front 1. Company hy the left flank. 2. By file right. 3. March. The principle is the same. A step before the first unites with the second platoon, the first sergeant returns to his place in the rear, and the captain takes the place of the first-lieu- tenant, who retires to his place as a file- closer. FIFTH LESSON. To break into column by platoon. The company being in line and at a halt. . . i. By platoon^ right wheel. The captain and first- lieutenant place them- . selves two paces before 62 TO BREAK INTO COLUMN BY PLATOON. Commands Explanations. OF 1 ^ Instkuctoe. j Capt. oe Lt. and facing the centre of their platoons (the lieu- tenant passing around the left of the company) and caution them to wheel to the right. The first sergeant takes the place of the captain on the right Each chief of pla- toon, by the shortest line, throws himself outside the point where the marching flank of his platoon will arrive, the right front rank man of each platoon faces to the right, the 6 * 2. Maech. TO BREAK INTO COLUMN BY PLATOON. €3 Explanations. Commands OF ,OF Instructor. Capt. or Lt. first sergeant standing fast. The platoons wheel on a' fixed pivot. When the moving flank shall be three paces from the perpendicular each chief of platoon. . 1. Platoon, 2. Halt. ' The first and second sergeants go to the left of their platoons, are placed on the line of the man who had faced the chief of platoon step back two paces. . . The alignment ended, the chiefs take their posts, two paces in front of the centre of their platoons. To BREAK TO THE LEFT. To break by platoon and not to halt after the wheel (The instructor caution- ing the company not to halt.) 3. Left, Dress. Front. 1. By platoon. lej% icheel. 2. March. 3. Right. Dress. 4. Front. 1. By platoon., right wheel. 64 TO BREAK INTO COLUMN BY PLATOON. Command^ Explanations. OF Instkuctor. OF Capt. or Lt. The chiefs throw themselves before the centres of the platoons and caution them to move on after wheeling, the covering sergeant replaces the captain. . . 2. March. The platoons wheel on a fixed pivot, the right front rank marks time in turning. The marching fiank arrived nearly at the perpendicular 8. Forward. 4. ISIarch. The men step out in the full step 5. Guide left. The guides place them- selves on the left fianks. The men touch el- bows toward the left. If the company be in march by the front, it will break, by platoon in the same manner, the pivot man marking time. The company may be broken to the left, in the same manner, the indication then being, left wheel. TO MARCH IN COLUMN. 65 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF i Instructor. 1 Capt. OR Lt. & To march in column. El □ n 6 6 !3 The column, being right in front (i. e. the first plar toon leading) the instruc- tor throws himself twenty- five or thirty paces in front of the leading guide and facing to him, the guide takes points in the line which passes through the heels of that officer, who then commands . . . 1. Colmnn for- uard. 2. Guide left. 3. Makch. / Mabcil The chiefs of platoon repeat the last com- mand. The men touch el- bows toward the guide, the man next to him will take care never to march beyond him, and not to touch elbows with him, but to pre- serve an interval of six inches between them. The rear guide follows 66 TO CHANGE DIRECTION. Commands Explanations. OF Insteuctoe. OF Oapt. oe Lt. the trace of the one in front. If the latter is directed to incline at a given point, the rear guide makes the same change of direction when he arrives at the same point. The chiefs see that the platoons conform to the guides. / The guides are to preserve the direction, step, and distance, of which* the last is the most impor- tant. In column, chiefs of subdivision repeat the com- mands march and halt^ likewise when the column moves to form line, but not vice versa. A column left in front, takes the guide to the rights that is all the difference that there is in the commands and execution. To change direction. The change of direction, in column, is always made by a wheel, on a movable pivot. The guide is taken therefore to the side opposite that wheeled toward. If it is wished that a column right in front change direction to the left, the instructor commands guide rights and goes himself or sends a marker to the intended point, which is taken on the side of the guide, who directs himself so as to TO CHANGE DIRECTION. 67 ^TTTTTTTXrX] i la in I tki-1-J-i.J.J..l.L.Lj..I 6 a graze the breast of the marker. At four paces from the marker the chief of platoon At the instant of reaching him 1. Leftw?i6€l,\ 2. Maboh. G8 TO CHANGE DIRECTION. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. The pivot. takes steps of nine inches if in quick time, and of eleven if the time be double- quick^ and the wheel being completed when the platoon marches directly for- ward, and the instruc- tor adds Guide left. 4. March. Habitually, light infantry in column, changes di- rection in marching by a loheel^ and to the side op- posite to the guide. When required, the change may be made to the side of the guide, not by wheeling, but by turning^ as follows: The com- pany being in column of platoons, (or itself being supposed to form a subdivision of a column), and in march, right in front, the instructor, causing first the point of change of direction to be mark- ed, on the side and in advance of the guide, com- mands . Head of col- umn to the left (or right.) The chief of the leading subdivision, when the guide is with- in four paces of the marker, commands .... and when the guide is 1. Left turn {or right turn.) ‘ TO HALT THE COLUMN. 69 Commands Explanations. OB’ Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. precisely opposite the marker 2. March. The guide turns at right angles, without changing the step, takes points in the new di- rection and marches forward. The following subdi- vision (if there be one) turns at the same point. « by the same commands from its chief. The files come into line, as in the movement of. By company into line. The change of direction with the left in front is on the same principle. If .the change is to the right, the guide is shifted to the left before the wheel, and after it, the command is given. Guide right If the change is to the right, with the right in front, or to the left with the left in front, no change of guide is necessary. To halt the column. The instructor com- mands 1. Column, 2. Halt. Promptly repeated by the chiefs of platoon. Halt. 70 TO FORM TO THE EIGHT OR LEFT INTO LINE. Being in column, to form to the right or left into line. The column being at a halt; and right in front, the instructor places himself at platoon distance in front of the leading guide, facing to him, and rectifies, if necessary, the position of the guide of the second platoon ; he then commands Dress. Chiefs of platoons step to the left flanks, align them on the guides and command. . . . and take their posts in column. The instructor . 1. Left into line^ wheel. 2. Maeou. Front. March. TO FORM TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT INTO LINE. 71 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. The guides stand fast, the left front-rank man of each platoon faces to the left, the chiefs turn to their platoons, which wheel on a fixed pivot, and command. . . 1. Platoon, 2. Halt. giving the last com- mand when the march- ing flank is three paces from the line of battle. The lieutenant passing by the left flank takes his post as a file-closer, the ^ptain from the right Right— aligning the company on the left front-rank man, while the right front rank man places his breast against the left arm of the instruc- tor. The captain com- mands Front. and the instructor Guides — Posts The first sergeant covers the captain, and the second takes his place as file-closer. 72 TO FORM TO THE RIGHT OR LEFT INTO LINE. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. If the column were left in front, the command would be, Bight into line^ wheel; the company would be aligned by the captain from its left, who at the command Guides — Posts, would take his place on the right. If the column is in march, and it is wished to wheel directly into line and then to halt, but not to halt in column, the instructor and throws himself to platoon distance in front of the leading guide. Lep (or right) into line wheel. 2. Maech. March. . At the command March, the guides halt, the platoons wheel, and the company is aligned, in all respects as before. Being in march in column, when it is wished to wheel into line, without halting at all (either in column or line) the in- 1. By platoons left (or right) wheel. 2. March. March. structor commands .... The guides halt at the command March, the man next to them marks time in turning, TO BREAK INTO PLATOONS AND TO RE-FORM. 73 COMJ^ANDS Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. the platoons wheel on a fixed pivot, and when nearly in line, the in- structof adds 3. Forward. 4. March. 5. Git/ide right The company step out, the officers and guides take their proper posts The captain and cov- ering sergeant shift to the designated fiank, if not already there, and the directing sergeant places himself six paces in advance, and is rec- tified by the instructor from tfie front. (or left.) SIXTH LESSOH. To break into platoons and to re-form the company. The company being in march, as part of a col- umn right in front, the instructor gives the order to the captain, who facftig to the company, commands 1. Break into platoons. Y4 TO break: into platoons and to re-form. Commands Explanations. OF I OF IXSTRIJCTOR. 1 CaPT. OR I . ^ • L- 1, .1 ■ i-j I 1 I I n Ei fin ifi fi H E3 fi □ and then places him- self before the centre of the first platoon. The first lieutenant, passing around the left flank, places himself in front of the second, and commands The captain adds The first sergeant, Mwirlc time. 2. March . TO BREAK INTO PLATOONS AND TO RE-FORM. 75 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. passing along the front, places himself on the left of the first platoon which marches directly forward, the second platoon marks time, its chief, so soon as it can pass, commands 1. Right ob- The second platoon. lique. shortening the step, ob- 2. March. liques, and at the mo- ment that its guide is nearly on the direction of the guide of the first, the lieutenant adds. . . 1. Forward. 2. March. In a column left in front, the means are inverse. The second platoon marches on, while the first ob- liques, while it is the left guide who passes to the right flank of the second (now leading) platoon, the right guide remaining at the right of the first. To form the company, the right being in front, the instructor gives the direction to the captain, who commands \Form com- The chief of the sec- ond cautions it to march directly on The heutenant re- peats party. 1. Fir at pla- toon. 2. Bight ob- lique. 8. March. (March.) 76 TO BREAK INTO PLATOONS AND TO RE-FORM. CO-M.MANDS Explanations. OF Instructor. of Capt. or Lt, The first platoon ob- liques, its guide shifts to its right flank, when it has nearly unmasked the second platoon, its chifif adds 1. Marie time, and 2. March. at the instant of un- masking. So soon as the second platoon shall be nearly in line with the first, the captain commands.. Forward. The lieutenant retires, and at the instant the platoons unite, the cap- tain adds. March. At which they step! out together. | In a column left in front the company is formed by inverse means, applying to the second (then leading) platoon what has been said of the first, and reciprocally. The guide of the second passes to its left flank, the guide of the first remains at its right, the chief of the second commands For- ward, and the captain, March. The movements of breaking and forming com- pany may be executed by the instructor’s direct TO BREAK FILES TO THE REAR. *77 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Instructor. 1 Capt. or Lt. commands, which would be the same as those given above by the captain.* To break files to the rear, and to bring them again into line. Files are to be so broken that, whereas they were marching by the front, they shall be march- ing in the same direction by the flank. The files broken off must so cover in file that they may either come back to the front, or unite with the other files in the march by the opposite flank. Whatever the mode adopted, the files broken off must, in effect, double^ and gain the rear of the nearest files that continue in line. Tiie method prescribed in General Casey’s Tactics seems so superior to others, that it will be preferred here. His principle is, to apply to files what is performed by a subdivision at the command, 1. Bij the right (or left) flank. 2. By file left (or right) The instructor gives the direction to the captain, who turning to his company, which is marching in * It is obvious that the movements in the text oblige the column to deviate to the right when the right is in front, and to the left when the left is. If the following platoon should oblique into line, in the double-quick step, (on the principle of the passage of obstacles in the battal- ion manoeuvres) the inconvenience would be avoided. *?8 TO BREAK FILES TO THE REAR. Explanations. Commands “ OF 1 OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. < 5 > o □> line, and right in front, commands The left group faces to the right, doubles, and wheels by file to the left, covering the 1. Two files from to rewr, 2. Makch. I TO BREAK FILES TO TEB REAR. 79 Explanations. Commands OF Instkuctoe. OF Capt. or Lt. nearest files which have continued to march. The left guide closes in to the flank. If another, or other, groups are ordered to the rear (by the same commands) that, or those, already there advance the outer shoul 1 .der, shorten t # he step, and 1. 7\oo files into line, 2. Maech. gain ground to the right, in order to leave space for the tie w files, and to cover them in file. The guide as before gradually closes to the flank. To bring the files back into line, the instructor directs the captain, who facing to the company commands. The designated files come into line, precise- ly as files do when the command is. By com- pany into line. Those that remain in rear gain ground to the left and close on the flank, the guide opening out to permit the files that enter to pass into line. The captain faces to the company to superintend the breaking and forming of the files. The in- 80 THE MARCH IN COLUMN OF ROUTE. Commands Explanations. OF 1 of Instructor. 1 Caut. or Lt. structor is on the flank for the same purpose. If there is an odd file, it must be broken off sepa- rately, the doubling and undoubling requiring this, ^he others are broken by groups {two^ four^ six mles) for the same reason. The march demands that files be broken only from the side of direction (that of the guide). [It is seen that a section or a plate may be broken off and brought into line, on the same principle.] The file-closers are placed as in other flank marches. In a column left in front, the principles are the same, the commands and means of execution are inverse. The inarch in column of route. The habitual rate is one hundred and ten steps in a minute. The company being at a halt, the instructor commands . 1. Column for- ward. 2. Guide left {ov right.) 3. Route step. 4. March. The rear rank, by shortening the first steps, takes the distance of twenty-eight inches from the front rank. The men carry their arms, at will (slung, on THE MARCH IX COLUMN OF ROUTE. 81 Explanations. Commands OF Instructor. op Capt. or Lt. either shoulder, &c., but the muzzle always upward). The step is not cadenced, nor is silence preserved in the ranks. Changes of di- rection are made on a simple intimation from the captain, without a command. The step at the pivot is fourteen • inches. To pass to the cadenced step the instructor will command., Right shoulder Akms. 1. Quick time. 2. March. The men take the cadenced step and the rear rank’ closes to six- teen inches from the front. To pass from the cadenced to the route step the instructor commands . ll. Route step. The rear rank, short- 2. March. ening its step, takes the interval of a pace from the front rank, the arms are at will. 82 THE MARCH IN COLUMN OF ROUTE. Commands Explanations. OF • j OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. ^lie company marching by the front in the route step, to march it by the flank in the same direction, the instructor fcommands The company faces doubling, and files, the right (or left) guide leading, and the captain on his left (or right). [Hardee and Casey direct the movement as above. Looking at the fact that the ranks are a pace apart, that they have to double the files, and that the step is not supposed to be regulated, it is a question whether the cadenced step should not be first resumed. Scott’s Tactics required that it should be, and the French Ordinance of 1861 pre- scribes that arms be shouldered and the cadenced step resumed as preparatory, which would close the ranks even nearer than in the case of passing from Route-step^ to Quick-time^ as seen above.] The company marching by the front, in the route- step, is broken into platoons, and is re-formed, the same as when marching in the cadenced step, with this single exception, that the chiefs of pla- toons take the places of the guides, and these fall back into the rear rank. 1. Company hy the right (or left) flank. 2. By file left (or right.) 3. March. THE MARCH IN COLUMN OF ROUTE. 83 Commands Explanations. OF j OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. 1. Break into secMons. •2. March. Platoons may be broken into sections, but onhj in column of route, and not then, unless the pla- toons have at least twelve files, because if the^^ were less than twelve files in the platoons, tlj||v column of sections (there being a pace betwee^^ the ranks) would in marching extend itself beyond its proper depth. To form sections the instructor gives the order to the captain, who com- mands The platoons break in the same way that the colnpany breaks in- to platoons. The cap- tain commands the first section, the second lieu- tenant the second, the first lieutenant the third and the next in rank the fourth. Chiefs of sections take the places of their guides, and these fall back into the rear rank. The file-closers close up to within a pace of the rear rank. To re-form the platoons the instructor gives the order to the captain,! I 84 THE MARCH 15^ COLUMN OP ROUTE. Commands Explanations. OF Instkuctok. OF Capt. or Lt. who commands 1. Form pla- toons. Each chief places Ijimself before the cen- PPe of his section. Executed as in form- ing company The platoons formed, the chiefs take the places of their guides, the chiefs of the second and fourth sections re- turn to the rank of file-closers, and this opens out to two paces from the rear-rank. 2. March. [In both the foregoing movements, the French Ordinance requires arms to be shouldered, and the cadenced ste^> taken, prior to their execution.] Marching in column of platoons or sections, the company may be* marched in the same direction by the flank, by the commands : 1. By the right flank, 2. By file lefl^ &c., as in column by company. Likewise files may be broken off, in the same man- ner, observing, however, that the section must not be reduced below six files, not counting its chief. The company marching by the flank will double and undouble files on an intimation from the in- structor to the captain, who after causing the cadenced step to be resumed and arms to be shoul- THE MARCH IN COLUMN OF ROUTE. 85 Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. dered or supported, commands l.In two ranks If marching by the right flank, the odd numbers march on, the even shorten the step and oblique to the left, behind the odd. The rear rank close to the left to touch elbows with the front-rank men. undouble files. 2. March. If the march be by the left flank, it is the odd men who oblique behind the even. The company may, in a similar manner, substituting one rank for two ranks in the command above, be formed from two ranks into one, on the flank march. The files all mark time, except the guide and first man of the front rank, who continue to march ; each rear- rank man successively, as room is made, steps in behind his front-rank man, followed j)romptly by the file-leader of the next file. To p^s' from single file to double, the cap- tain commands . The rear-rank men step out on their right 8 l.In two ranks dotvble Jiles^ 2. March. 86 COUNTERMARCH. ExptANATrroNs. Commands OF Instktictok. OP Capt. or Lt. (or left), and each rank closes on its leader. | Marching by the flan! k in two ranks 5, the instruc- tor gives the order to the captain, who com- 1. In four ranks doub- \ le files. 2. Maecii. mands The files double as when the company faces from front to flank. I Before all these changes in the depth of the files, the company is to be brought to the cadenced step with arms shouldered or supported. After them, the instructor causes the route step to be resumed. In the route step the arms are carried at will., muzzles always upward. At the command. Halt, the rear rank closes to thirteen inches, and the company shoulders arms. Countermarcli. The company being right in front, and at a halt,, the instructor com-i mands 1. Counter- % march. 2. Company ^ Face. The company faces, the guides' face about, . the captain goes to the right, breaks two files to the rear, and places COUNTERMARCH. St Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. □ ^ E Q 9 ^ ch o> 0] a m □ Lj_J_i ! I 1 [ L ill I 1. 1 1 .1 1 l~n himself on the -left of the first man of the front rank to conduct him 3. By file left. 4. March. The company wheels by file around the right guide, marches parallel to the guides; at four paces from the left guide the captain com- mands *. when directly in rear and two paces behind 1. Company. 88 TO FORM COLUMN BY PLATOON INTO LINE. Commands Explanations. OF Instkitctor. OP Capt. or Lt. the left guide 2. Halt. The captain steps 3. Front. two paces outside of the left guide, and com- mands 4. Eighth Dress. The company align- ed, the captain adds. . . and takes his post op- posite the centre. The guides exchange places, passing rapidly along the front. Front. With the left in front, the means and commands are inverse, the subdivisions of an open column right in front, countermarching by the right flank, and left in front by the left flank. Platoons may be countermarched on the same principle. To form column by platoon on the right or left into line. The column of platoons being right in front and in march, the instructor commands 1. On the right into line. The guides 'shift to^' GuidtrigU. the right flank. The instructor throws himself to the front on the right of the guides 90 TO FORM COLUMN BY PLATOON INTO LINE. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. 1 OF 1 Capt. or Lt. ten paces, at least, and faced toward the point of direction to the left. The first platoon ar- rived nearly opposite to the instructor, its chief commands 1. Right Uirn, 2. March. and when exactly oppo- site The platoon turns^ and the guide so con- ducts it as to bring its right file opposite to the instructor. When near him the chief of platoon commands . . . 1. Platoon. 2. Halt. and when but three pao^^ from him adds . . The l^e places him- self opposite one of the three left files, faces the instructor and is aligned by him. , The chief goes to the right and commands Right — Dress. The men dress up, the files opposite the in- structor and guide touching their elbows with the breast. TO FORM COI^UMN BY PLATOON INTO LINE. 91 Commands Exlanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. The second platoon con- tinues to march tilfi it is opposite the left of the first, when it is marched upon the line \ by the same commands, its guide directing him- self upon the left file of the first. At the command, its guide places himself opposite one of its then left files and is aligned by the instructor, when its chief commands and retires by the left, as a file closer. The second platoon aligned, the captain commands Front. and the instructor .... Oiddes., Posts. at which the guides take their posts in line. . With the left in front the column is formed on the left into line, by the change of the command to: 1. On the left into line. 2. Guide left. The chief of the second platoon aligns it to the left, its left front-rank man touching the instructor’s right elbow,- and retires as file-closer so soon as the first platoon arrives. The captain having halted his platoon aligns it from the left flank of the com- 92 FORMATION FROM ONE RANK INTO TWO RANKS. Commands Explanations. OF I OF Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. pany, on its right guide, and at the command Guides — Posts, the guides retire, and the captain takes his post on the right. Formation of the company from one rank into two ranks, and reciprocally, and from two ranks into four, and reciprocally. Under the head of the route step^ the change in the depth of the files, has been shown when the company is in march by the flank. Those that can be executed from a halt^ and when in march by the fronts here follow. The company being at a halt, faced to the front, and in one rank, the instructor commands. . l. In two ranks, form com- pany. 2. Company right — Face. The company faces, except the right guide, and the man next to him The men who had faced, step off together, the leading man by a step to the right and rear, places himself to cover the man on the right who did not face, 3. March. FORMATION FROM ONE RANK INTO TWO RANKS. 93 Expla^’Ations. Commands OP Instructor. OP Capt. or Lt. forming thus the first file ; the next following man closes up to the front-rank man of this file, and faces to the front, covered at once by the fourth man, and so on to the left. The steps to the rear must be taken in the time of an ordinary step, and the men who close must face to the front in halt- ing, or the following men will be delayed. The company, formed as above in two ranks, to form it into one rank, the instructor commands The right guide faces to the right. 1. Tn one rank^ form com- pany. The guide and first file step off together, the guide directing him- self on the prolongation of the front rank, the front-rank man of the first file facing to the right in taking the first 2. March. 94 FORMATION FROM ONE RANK INTO TWO RANKS. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. j ■ OF 1 Capt. or Lt. step ; the rear-rank man, turning at the same point, follows him : the front-rank man of the second file steps, in turning, im- mediately after the rear man of the first, fol- lowed by his rear-rank man, and so successive- ly to the left. The cap- tain superintends the filing of the company, and when finished, com- mands 1. Halt. 2. Front. The file-closers ex- tend their rank, with that of the company.*! Both the foregoing formations may be executed by the left of the company. The company must be first faced about, the guides placed in the rear- rank, and, the formation finished, faced again to its proper front. The commands are the same in both cases, f ♦ It would seem to be simpler to face the company by the flank, first, and then let the rear-rank step into their, intervals successively. t So prescribed, but the objection is, that if there were an odd man he would be formed on the right of the com- pany. FR03I TWO RAXKS INTO FOUR RANKS. 95 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OP Instructor. | Capt. or Lt. The company being in two ranks, at a halt, and faced to the front, to form it into four ranks, the instructor commands . . In four ranks^ f6rm\ company. 2. Company Face, The left guide stands fast. The company faces to the left and doubles. 3. March. The left file faces to the front, the others step ‘Off together, each closes to within five inches of the one that precedes it, they halt successively, and face to the front (doubled). The file-closers contract their rank to coiTes^ pond with the com- pany. The captain su- pervises the movement. The company formed in four ranks, the instruc- tor forms it again into tw^o ranks by the com- mand l.In two ranks., form com- pany. 2. Company right — Face. 96 THE COMPANY IN TWO EANKS. Commands Explanations. OF Instructor. OF Capt. 0^ Lt. The left guide stands fast, the company faces. The right guide steps off, and the right file of fours, the second file follows so soon as the first has taken its dis- tance, and so on to the left, when the instruc- 3. March. tor commands The company un- doubles files. 1. Compo/ny. 2. Halt. 3. Front. The company in two ranks being in march by the front, and right in front. The instructor com- mands The left guide and left file continue the 1. In four ranks^ form company. 2. By the left., double files. 3. Makch. march to the front. The other files half face to the left and double, the step is lengthened THE COMPANY IN TWO BANKS. 97 Commands Explan jUTions. OF Instructor. OF Capt. or Lt. SO as to keep on the alignment of the guide, toward whom the ob- liquing files close, and each faces to the front, so soon as the interval on its left is closed up, and resumes the direct step. The rear-rank men shorten the first steps to permit the odd numbers to enter the file. The company so formed in four ranks, to form it, in the march by the front, into two ranks, the instructor commands The left guide and file continue the march. The other files oblique to the right, lengthen- ing the step in order to keep in line with the guide, when the second file from the left has taken sufficient distaime to permit the left nle to come into line, the second, half facing, 9 \.Jn two ranks^ form com- pany. 2. By the right., undouhle files. 5. March. 98 THE COMPANY IN TWO RANKS. Commands Explanations. OF I OF Instiiuctor. I Capt. or Lt. resumes the direct march, and the left file un- doubles into line, and so successively of all the other files, each forming into two ranks, as soon as that next to it resumes the direct step. ^The last two movements (as seen above),’ are made either /rom, or toward^ the guide, (;onse- quently, with the left in front, the commands and means are inverse, left being substituted for right The last four movements may be executed in the double-quick. The oblique march is confined to the march by the fron% and the Tactics do not direct it to be ever begun from a halt All the marches (except the backward march) of the thirds fourth, fifth, and sixth lessons, may be executed in the double-quick step, to effect which the cautionary command Double-quick precedes the command March. In the double-quick step ihe pieces are to be carried either at the Right shoulder shifty or at a Trail. In the latter case, the commanl to trail arms, precedes the command Double-quick^ March. In the former the men shift the pieces to the right shoulder, at the command Double- quick. In wheeling, if in the qidck time the pivot flank takes steps of nine inches, if in double-quick^ of eleven (about a third of the step , at the march- ing flank in both cases). TO DEPLOY FORWARD. 99 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. | Lieutenant. ARTICLE I. Deployments. By skirmishers is meant light troops deployed n extended order, having intervals between their ;p:oups, files, or individual soldiers. A company may be deployed either forward^ that is, on a line in advance of the one it occupies, or, by the fiank, that is, on the very line it occu- pies. To deploy forward. The deployment forward is made on some desig- nated file^ which moves directly forward, in the step indicated in the command, while the other files separate from it by oblique lines and in quicker time. The platoons and sections are to be carefully marked, and the captain will see that the centre files of each are designated. (The last has refer- ence to the rallying by platoon or section.) The company being in line, at a halt or in march, to deploy the first platoon on its left file, l^olding in reserve the second platoon, the captain com- mands. . X.Flrst platoon as skirmish- ers. On the left Jile take internals. ^ IQBSSSl'^I|;!IQ|l^lQQQ^iI!l^9l!IlelSISItiSaiIa(!UI TO DEPLOY FORWARD. 101 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OP Lieutenant. The first lieutenant places himself in front of the second platoon, and if the company is in m^ch, commands . . If the company is at a halt, the lieutenant com- mands The second platoon marches backward three paces, of twenty- eight inches, its chief halts it, the second ser- geant places himself on its left, the third on its right. At the first command of the captain the sec- ond lieutenant places himself two paces be- hind the centre of the first section, the third lieutenant two paces behind the centre of the second section, the fifth sergeant one pace be- fore the centre of the first platoon, and the fourth sergeant on its /Second pla- toon — Halt. /Second pla- toon back- ward — Maech, left. 9 * 102 TO DEPLOY FORWARD. Explanations. Commands OF Captain. Lieutenant. The captain then adds March (or DouhU-quick — March). The left group of fours conducted by the fourth sergeant moves directly forward. The other groups extend out to its right, on lines more and more diago- nal, moving in quicker time, and as they successively place an interval of twenty paces between themselves and the group nearest them on their left, they turn to the front and march in line with the left group, preserving the intervals. The left guide having reached the point where the left of the line of skirmishers is to rest, the captain com- mands Skirmishers — Halt. Halt. The groups not yet in line continue the march till they arrive on it. All the groups deploy, when on the line, into single rank, each group upon its even- numbered front-rank man, who stands fast. TO DEPLOY FORWARD. 103 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. his rear-rank man forms on his left five paces distant, the odd-num- bered man of the front rank extends to his right ten paces, and the rear man of the odd file is between these two, five paces from each. Thus when the interval between the groups is twenty paces, the habitual distance between the men of a group being five, the whole line in one extended rank is formed by skirmishers placed at equal intervals of five paces. The line thus formed, the sergeants fall back ten paces, each in rear of their former posts in line. Each chief of section, after rectifying the line, falls back twenty-five or thirty paces in rear of the centre of his section ; with each of these offi- cers is a group taken from the reserve, and a bugler, who is to repeat the signals of the captain’s bugler. If fired upon, during the deploying, the captain may deploy the groups as they successively gain their proper distances (from the group next on their left). The captain is eighty paces in rear of the centre of the line, having with him a group of four and a bugler. (The groups with the captain and lieutenants are deployed like those in line.) 104 TO DEPLOY FORWARD. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. | Lieutenant. At the beginning of the deployment the first lieutenant faces about the second platoon, and marches it to a point one hundred and fifty paces in rear of the centre of the fine, holding it at that ‘ distance as the reserve. Where no reserve is required, the entire com- pany can be deployed on the same principle. In this case the first lieutenant commands the second platoon, the second the first, and the fourth and second sections are commanded by the next in rank. The fifth sergeant is the guide of the centre. The lieutenants each have h bugler (but not a group) with them. The forward deployment may be made on any file of the platoon or company. If the right file be selected as the directing one, the others incline diagonally and extend to the left. If an interior file is the directing one, the groups diverge from it to the right and left, and it is conducted on its right by th,e fifth sergeant. For example, the captain wishing to deploy on the centre file, com- mands. The fifth sergeant places himself in front to conduct the right Company (or First pla- toon) as skir- mishe/rs. On the centre file take inter- vals. TO DEPLOY BY THE FLANK. 105 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. group of fours of the second platoon (or of the second section). To deploy by the flank. This deployment can be made only from a halt. The captain commands. 1. Second pla- toon, as skir- mishers. The first lieutenant places himself two paces behind the centre of the third section, the third lieutenant be- hind the fourth. The second lieutenant com- mands and marches the .first platoon as prescri- bed for the reserve in the forward deploy- ment. The fifth ser- geant in front of the centre of the deploy- ing jiTatoon, the third sergeant at its right, and second at its left. The first and fourth jqToJ y fours ARTICLE lY. The rallies, May be made by groups of fours, by sections, by platoons, or on the reserve. Preparatory to rallying, the command, or signal, is given to fix bayonets. The company in march, or at a halt, the captain commands Officers and sergeants repeat the command. If in march, the line halts. Each group forms a little square of four, facing outward on the even-numbered front-rank man, who takes the position of guard against cavalry ;* fdkQuig forward^ his rear- rank man forms on his left, the odd front-rank on his right, and odd rear-rank man on his rear. The right feet of the men (all guard' * See Bayonet Fencing. TO RALLY BY SECTIONS. 125 Explanations. \ ing against cavalry) form a square. They load and fire without moving the feet. The captain and lieutenants, with their buglers, place themselves with- in the squares formed by their groups, the ser- geants within the near- est groups of the line. To re-form the line the captain commands, Commands Captain. Deploy as skir- mishers. Lieutenant. ... 4 ^ which is executed as in the deployments. Note. The rallies are all made at the ruUj which is two hundred steps, of thirty-three inches, to the minute. If the bayonets have not been fixed, the skirmishers fix bayonets, whilst rallying. To rally by sections. The skirmishing being in line, the captain com- mands Chiefs of sections throw themselves into the square, formed by one of the interior groups 11 * Bally l>y tions. Bally hy sec- tions. m ml RALLY BY PLATOONS. 12'7 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. they may select for the points of the rally. This group throws up the points of its bayonets, as a sign to the others, which form rapidly around it, filling up its angles, and ^ making a circle of the entire sec- tion. The men as they form, come to a charge bayonets (points more elevated) and cock their pieces. The two outer ranks fire and load without moving their feet. To deploy the circles the captain commands, The chiefs dress the sections on the files that are facing the en- emy, the men taking their numbered places. Form sections. Form sections Eally by platoons. This rally is made on the same principle as the last, and the circle is deployed in the same way. In both the foregoing rallies, the reserve also, if threatened, forms a circle around its chief. 128 RALLY ON THE RESERVE. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. | Lieutenant. Rally on tlie reserve. At this command the reserve forms half of a square, by throwing back its flank half sec- tions, the men come to the ready^ and open their fire as soon as the reserve is unmasked by the skirmishers. The latter form into groups upon the man of the group who is nearest the centre of the sec- tion. The groups in-| dine to each other so as to form into sections ; these are so directed by their chiefs, to the right and left, as to un- mask the reserve, ar- rived at which they complete the square, and join in its fire, without waiting for a command. If, during its march on the reserve, the chief of section command Halt^ the section immediately forms circle around the officer. RALLY ON THE RESERVE. 129 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. 1 Lieutenant. If the whole company is deployed, and the com- mand is given Rally on the battalion^ the skirmish- ers direct themselves toward the nearest flank, and having passed its flle-closers, form, in quick time ten paces in their rear. If there are several platoons so formed in rear of the battalion wings, they will be in close column, or at half-distance. If the battalion is in square, the rallying skir- mishers enter by its rear angles, and form close column of platoons in rear of its first front. If the battalion is in column to form square^ the skir- mishers form similarly in rear of the centre of the third division, and march forward, closing on the buglers, at the command Form square — J^Iarch. If the square is formed, and cannot be safely opened, the skirmishers will throw themselves at the feet of the front rank, dropping on the right knee, butt on the thigh, and bayonet advanced. They will, in the same way occupy the sectors without fire (the angles). Skirmishers rallied behind the wings of the bat- talion, will be marched by the flank, through the interval (between battalions) when they are again to deploy in front of the battalion. In the case of their having been rallied in the interior of a column or square, they will be marched out by the flank and deployed again, as prescribed for the deploy- ment of platoons at half-distance. 130 SKIRMISHERS IiV SQUARE AND COLUMN. Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. Skirmisliers in square and column. The skirmishers having rallied on the reserve^ and formed square under the immediate direction of the captain, he will hold it either in square, or in column at half distance, by platoon. The captain com- mands 1. Form col- The guides place themselves on the right and left of the platoons, those of the second at half distance from the rear-rank of - the first platoon, the platoons dress on their centres, the rear platoon facing about. To form square again the captain commands, 2. Maech. 1. Form square 2. March. If in march the col- umn halts, the platoon in rear faces about, both platoons throw back their fiank half sections, forming the square as at first. SKIRMISHERS IK SQUARE AND COLUMN. 131 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OP Lieutenant. If the column is to march in advance, the, captain commands. . . . l. Forwarcl. The column steps off and the captain adds, The men touch to- ward the guide. To march in retreat . 2. March (or double-quick — Marcu). 3. Guide left (or right). 1. In retreat. The company faces 2. March (or - ' donhle-quic‘ -Marcu). about, and marches in; the opposite direction.! The captain adding ... ' 3 . Guide right J {or left). Th 0 column will be preserved ; if it is to move toward either flank, this will be done by wheeling, (not by turning, or by the flank march). Being in column the first platoon may be de- ployed as already explained. To deploy the sec- ond, the captain com-1 1 mands l. Second pla- toon as skir- The chief of the first ^^^^hers. platoon cautions it to stand fast, chiefs of sections in the second place themselves be- fore their centres. The 132 SKIRMISHERS IN SQUARE AND COLUMN. Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. fifth sergeant a pace in front of the centre of the second platoon 2. On the centre file. — take in- tervals. The chief of the Sectnon Chief of the fourth face. Section left face. The captain then com- mands 3. March. The sections march off, the fifth sergeant with the fourth section. When each passes the flank of the first pla- toon, its chief com- mands • By the left flank — March (or By the Hght flank — March). As skirmish- and the moment the sections are on the alignment of the first platoon both chiefs com- mand ers — March. The groups deploy- forward on the fifth THE ASSEMBLY. 133 Commands Explanations. OP Captain. OF Ltetttenant. sergeant, who conducts the right groun of the fourth section.® •If the deployment is to be by the flank, the only difference is that the sections pass the first platoon several paces, are then halted, and deployed by the flank. The assembly, Is intended simply to annul the deployment. While the rallies are always made at the run^ the assemblies are made in the quick step. The line being deployed, and at a halt, the cap- tain commands: Assemble by the right (or left) flank. The skirmishers face to the designated flank — close toward its last group, which is form- ing itself, the other groups form in marching, close up successively, face to the front, and support arms. To assemble by both flanks, the command is varied accordingly, the skirmishers face inward, and close upon the designated group. To assemble while marching to the front, the captain, if he wish the formation to be on the cen- tre, which would be the shortest way, com- mands Assemble on the cent/re. The centre guide; marches directly on,i followed by the direct- 1 12 134 ASSEMBLE ON THE RESERVE. Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OP Lieutenant. ing file toward which the other comrades of that group incline. The • men of the other groups form into groups upon those of their files nearest the directing file ; the groups being formed incline toward, and successively unite with, the centre group, and bring their pieces to the right shoulder. The step of the in- clining files and groups is necessarily quickened. The 'assembly may be made on the right, left or any other file. A guide should conduct the file. A line marching in retreat, is assembled on the same principle — the front-rank men following their rear-rank men. Assemble on the reserve. At this command the skirmishers reform the groups, on the line, the groups direct themselves upon the reserve, the rear rank leading, form themselves upon it in their proper places, and faced to the front. The company joins the bat- talion. ilAXCEUVEES OF SKIRMISHERS. 135 Commands Explanations. OF Captain. OF Lieutenant. Manoeuvres of Skirmishers, The manoeuvi^ of skirmishers consist in great measure of the movements of single companies, but the same principles are readily applicable to a battalion. The battalion may be deployed as skirmishers, either from line of battle or from close column of companies. ^ The colonel designates in advance the companies that are to constitute’ the reserve, under the major. They are taken from the right or left flank, when the battalion is in line, and from the rear when it is in close column. Each company (or platoon) covers, when de- ployed, a front of one hundred paces. Whether the deployment is made from line, or from column, the words of command by the colo- nel are the same : the words of command of the captains, in deploying their companies (or platoons) are those of the company drill. For thQ movements of the line when deployed — extending, closing intervals, the firings, &c. — the colonel applies the commands of the company drill, and the principle of the execution is absolutely the same. A battalion of eight companies, being in line of battle, to hold in reserve the first, second, and third companies, and to deploy forward the remaining five on the right of the sixth, the colonel will make 136 MANCEUVRES OF SKIRMISHERS. Commands Explanations. OF I OF Captain. | Lieutenant. known his intention to the heutenant-colonel, ma- jor, and adjutant — directing the^ajor to take charge of the reserve, and instru *ng the lieuten- ant-colonel as to tlie proposed direction of the line, and as to the point where the right of the sixth company is to rest. The lieutenant-colonel throws himself eight or ten paces in front of the sixth com- pany’s right, the adjutant the same distance in front of its left, the major in front of the intended reserve. The colonel then com- mands The captain of the 1. First (or second) pla- toons^ as skir- mishers. 2 . On the right of the sixth company — take intervals. sixth company prepares to deploy his first pla- toon on its right file. The captain of the fifth to deploy his first pla- toon on its left file. The captain of the fourth company com- mands Captains of the seventh and eighth companies. . The colonel adds .. . March (or double-quick — March). Right face. Left face. i March. I 4fl0^ 138 MANCEUVRES OP SKIRMISHERS. Explanations. Commands Captain. Lieutenant. The platoons of the fifth and sixth com- panies deploy forward. The fourth company, marching by its right flank, halts Mrhen op- posite the right flank (dejjloyed) of the fifth company, faces then to the front, deploys for- ward its first platoon on the left file, throwing its reserve to the rear. The seventh and eighth companies gain distance to the left flank in the same manner, halt successively, and deploy in the same manner on their right files. The companies deployed dress on the directing company (in this instance the sixth). The lieutenant-colonel and adjutant follow up the deployment on the right and left respectively, and afterward place themselves in rear and near the colonel, posted two hundred paces in rear. The major, on an order from the colonel, will have faced about and marched the three right MANCETJVRES OF SKIRMISHERS. 139 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain, | Lieutenant. companies directly to the rear thirty paces, halted, ployed into column at half distance, and afterwards he will have marched this battalion reserve to oc- cupy the point selected for it by the colonel. The company reserves are posted in echelon^ . descending from the right to the left (or, it may be, from left to right). The reserves of two com- panies are united, to form a stj'onger resistance to cavalry. In the present instance, the several re- serves are posted — that of the sixth company, one hundred and fifty paces in rear of its right : the. reserves of the fourth and fifth companies in rear of the centre of their line thirty paces in advanc e of that of the sixth, and the reserve of the seventh and eighth companies, opposite the centre of their line, thirty paces to the rear of the reserve of the sixth company. Thus, in an even number of de- ployed companies, the reserves would be half the number of the companies. The battalion being in line of battle to deploy the companies hy the flank, instead of deploying them forward — on the same point of direction — that is, on the right of the sixth company — the colonel commands as before — the captains of the sixth and fifth companies march them ten or twelve paces forward, by the commands : 1. Forward. 2. Guide RIGHT. 3. March. They halt their companies and deploy them by the flank — the sixtli by the left, the ‘fifth by the right flank, as in the company drill — the reserve, if platoons are deployed, being 140 DEPLOYMENT OP SKIRMISHERS FROM COLUMN. 1 1 Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. | Lieutenant. marched to the rear. The other companies march by the flank — those to the right of the directing companies by the right flank, the others by the . left — halt when their distance of one hundred^ paces is attained — move forward on the line, and deploy by the flank. Each will wait till the next platoon toward the side of direction shall have finished its deployment. Deployment of Skirmishers from Colnnm. The close column must be first formed. Whether this deployment be made forward or by the flank, the directing company is moved for- ward ten or twelve paces in advance of the posi- tion just occupied by the head of the column. It is then deployed as commanded. The otb.cr com- panies march to their proper distance, to the right or left witli respect to the directing company, then deploy individually, as before, whether forward or by the flank. (The deployment of skirmishers from column is the combination of deploying into line of battle and this line’s extension into skirmish- ing order.) When the color company is one of those to be deployed, the guard remains with the company, the color is deta^ched to the battalion reserve. When Assemble on the battalion is sounded, the companies assemble on their reserves, and then join the battalion reserve, taking their proper places in column. 142 RALLIES. Commands Explanations. OF 1 OF Captain. | Lieutenant. Kallies. All the rallies maj be performed as prescribed for the company. When Rally on the hattalion is sounded, the skirmishers unite with their company reserves to form square — the reserve throwing back its flank sections, and the skirmishers continuing the for- mation, the last who run in completing the rear front — facing outward, in two ranks, and without regard to height. These squares march upon the battalion reserve (forming themselves into column) as soon as they are able, or they seize any advantageous positions, in the interim. The battalion reserve, if threatened by cavalry, forms square. The colonel disposes the battalion reserve to protect the rally. If the battalion reserve be formed in square, the other reserves, in marching upon it, will take the hne of its diagonals prolonged, in order to be with- in its sectors without fire. If the battalion reserve be held in column, the approaching company reserves will form in col- umn witli it ; not, as in assembling, necessarily in their regular order, but in the order of their arri- val, without regard to number, next in rear of companies already in the column. SUPPLEMENT Skirmishers should be gradually inured to the fatigue of the double-quick march, at the fixed rate of 165 steps to the minute. In this pr^actice, it is even unsafe to continue it long in the beginning. The run (_pas de course)^ of two hundred steps- tor the minute, should next be performed. Both these steps should be persistently timed^ and their ca- dence well established. Without attempting here explanations of the causes, it is undeniable that rhythmic movements are performed with much less of exhaustion to the human frame, than un- regulated efforts, and especially is this the fact when a consentaneous action of masses is required. The French tactics (and their translators) err somewhat in saying that the double-quick step dif- fers from the quick step only in its greater rate of march. In the walk^ however fast, there is no instant during which both the feet are off* the ground; while in the however slowly per- formed, there is, during each propulsion, a percep- tible space when neither foot is in contact with the earth. The eye detects the difference easily. The double-quick {pas gymnastique\ is in fact a slow run (or irot\ and there probably never has been a time when this pace was not actually used in war. The step should be taken hghtly, the weight falling on the ball of the foot, the knees somewhat bent. SUPPI^EMENT. lU but the legs flexible (not rigid), while the trunk should be kept as steady and immovable as possi- ble. The arms should be contracted, because the bracing of the arm, shoulder, and pectoral muscles conduces to the strength and steadiness of the chest. The inspirations should be made quickly and deeply, and the expirations very slowly. The body more and more leaned forwavd as the march is prolonged. To be able to sustain the exertion required, the step must be practised and performed on right principles. It is quite apparent that when the directing portion of a line is in quick time, and is to move over a shorter distance, that part that is to conform to it, and to traverse a greater distance, must move more rapidly. If, therefore, the time is command- ed quick^ all but the directing fraction, are to take double-quick time ; and if double-quick is command- ed, these latter must take the run. Quick time, then, is rather the exception than the rule in the skirmishers’ drill. Skirmishers are to carry their arms substantially “ at will,” but the trail (in either of the hands), has such advantages as these : it allows the soldier to drop upon the ground or under cover readily; to climb a fence, or cross a ditch or stream ; fix his bayonet ; and does not so much expose him to be seen, as when the piece is carried at or upcn the shoulder. Skirmishers must know how to take advantage of the ground, of knolls, trees, rocks, fences, walls, Ac. When a group gets possession of such cover, the comrades are to give place to one another to fire from it. The passage from one cover to an- SUPPLEMENT. 145 other must be made warily, taking care to load } before quitting the former place. Skirmishers are to be exercised in loading and tiring while kneeling, sitting, or lying on the ground, taking care that in loading the piece is held upright (the butt may be tapped on the ground), for an instant, before ramming. It is quite important that practice at the long ranges be made — the efficiency of light infantry depending much on the individual fire — marks- manship is a necessary part of the instruction. The alternation of the fire, between the front and rear rank men, must yield to^ its deliberation and effectiveness, as the precision of the alignment must not interfere with the cover to the skirmish- ers afforded by the circumstances of the ground. The non-commissioned officers will see that the men get under cover when practicable, and that they do not fire without deliberate aim — not rap- idly but with effect. It is more than ordinarily important in skirmishing, to husband the ammu- nition. ) It has been seen that skirmishers load before they advance, and in retiring, fall back immediately '■ after firing — to leave the front clear and ^to avoid needless exposure. • Should skirmishers be dispersed^ by an over- sudden attack, the men must shift for themselves, take trees, get up banks, behind fences, resort to the bayonet fencing, and fire at any opportunity. The officers must get together a few files, and en- deavor to effect a rally upon some good positions In the case of a detached company, it is advisable? to provide for such a casualty, by appointing bo- 13 L46 SUPPLEMENT. forehand some general place of rendezvous. There are noted instances where light troops have been so reassembled, without suffering great loss, after having been driven back and scattered. Artillery has little effect upon the extended line of skirmishers, especially if they are lying flat on the ground or well covered — while their fire falls in return with great effect upon the other. In firing upon a battery the flanks of the line should endeavor to close forward, to obtain the advantage* of the cross-fire, and the horses in rear should be selected as an object in order to disable the pieces for retreating. Moving the line thirty or forty paces forward, or to the rear, after the artillery has gotten its range, will serve to disconcert it. When light infantry support artillery they should, usually, be posted on one or both flanks (not yet deployed, it may be), and a part of them may find a position from which to cross their fire with that of the artillery ; if the guns advance, the light infantry may be ordered to cover their front, or to move forward parallel with them. In retir- ing, the infantry skirmishes to cover the withdrawal of the guns, and to afford them time to gain some distance to the rear. ^ In a broken or intersected country and in woody and soft meadow lands, light infantry have the ad* vantage over cavalry. In such ground cavalry will not venture to engage, seriously, skirmishers who manifest a resolute opposition. A single infantry man, who knows the use of his bayonet, •• is at least a match for an individual horseman. Forty paces between groups is the extreme interval of deployment. The habitual distance SUPPLEMENT. 147 . being twenty paces, if a less distance be named in the command, the men in the groups must reduce their intervals to correspond. In covering the front of a battalion (in line), the skirmishers must extend beyond the battalion front half the interval to the next battalions on its right, and left. Whether covering the front of the battalion, or its flank, and whether the battalion be in column or line, the skirmishers are to conform their move- ments to it. Should it be in line, and a flank unsupported, skirmishers are either to be extended along the flank, or to be so far extended along the front as to protect the flank. If the battalion moves in echelon^ the skirmish- ers must half face, and gain ground, in the proper direction by obliquing. If the battalion passes into column from line, the skirmishers will preserve their extension to cover the movement. If they are masking the head of a column, they will be extended so far as to cover the deployment of the column into line. When the formation in rear of the skirmishers is complete, and they are ordered to quit the front, they must leave it clear as soon as possible. They should not cross the- front of a square or of a column. Skirmishers should be thrown forward to cover a change of front of the battalion. If covering a line that moves to the attack, skirmishers should be closed, at the proper mo- ment, to the right and left to clear the front. But it frequently happens that the skirmishers, 148 SUPPLEMENT. in the enemy’s attack upon troops in position, are driven directly back upon them. In this case the troops of the line should throw back a few files from the left of the companies, opening intervals*for the skirmishers to pass through. When a line of skirmishers, whether advancing or retreating, is halted^ they should lose no time in availing themselves of the cover the ground may afford. The non-commissioned officers should look to this. If assailed by cavalry, and skirmishers can avail themselves of such an obstacle as a house, fence, or the edge of a ravine, they need not form square. Forming line with their backs to the obstacle will be sufficient. The fatiguing nature of the duty requires that skirmishers be relieved from time to time. Bailies. The essentially new part of the drill of skirmish- ers, is the development upon the groups of fours. In the system that prevailed anterior to this late introduction of the French, the deployment was made upon the file as the fundamental unit, the directing file moved forward or it stood fast, ac- cording as the deployment was to be forward or by the flank ; and at the proper time the file (as now the group) deployed, the rear-rank man stop- ping upon the general line two paces on the left of his file leader. In extending or in closing inter- vals the distance taken was that between files, the distance between the men of a file remmning inva- riably two patjes. This method certainly has sim- plicity in its favor. The officer in command SUPPLEMENT. 149 expressed the number of paces to be taken for intervals, and was not limited, except by his discre- tion. In deploying by the flank, it was the duty of the front-rank man of the file to look to the di. rection (to follow exactly the trace of the preceding file); while the rear-rank man, casting a glance over the shoulder, determined the distance from the halting file in rear, and then cautioned his file leader, in a low tone, by the word halt. This, it would be well to continue with the groups. It seems to be doubtful whether the system of groups be a positive improverpent. A circum- stance that strengthens the doubt is, the fact that the whole of the firing comes back to repose upon the file development. Perhaps rather too much importance is attached to the ingenious idea of the squares which are formed by the groups of fours. To calculate their value it should be considered, 1st. That any casualties that may have occurred before the formation would have rendered the numbering off erroneous, and would have made the groups less than four. The fragments would then, of course, join themselves to the neighbor- ing squares, in which case these would no longer be squares of four. 2d. The smallness of the squares makes them weak in themselves. 3d. They are not formed in echelon^ or so that their fire crosses missing one another. Other points might be reckoned going to indicate that the prin- ciple of these little squares may have been over- valued at the expense of the general theory of the skirmishing drill. However, as I have no disposi- tion to deny the system of the groups of fours a certain merit, I limit the direct objection to the 13* 150 SUPPLEMENT. following point. Let it be granted that the aggre- gating of the extended group into a prompt square of fours, back to back, furnishes a ready means of strengthening the line, yet I certainly believe that the subordinating of the next higher units, that is to say, the rally of the section and plat )on circles^ to the group square is a vice. It is pushing the spirit of system too far.* The small square of four is an unsuitable nucleus for the section or platoon circle. I give the reasons : 1st. Because the formation of the circle ought to allow (and the text requires) a fire by two ranks, which are inconveniently formed on the square nucleus. 2d. Because the sergeants are thrown into the ranks, not being able to get within the nucleus, and thus are prevented from assisting the officer effectually. 3d. Because the men, running in on either flank, cannot And their proper places in front and rear of the line (of bat- tle) while those who are already formed cannot charge bayonets promptly, on account of the con- tinued arrival of the men from the extremes of the late line. I propose that the section (or platoon) circle be rallied thus: The men shall run to the officer, instead of his running to them. At the command of the captain the lieutenant forms his escort (if he have one) as a segment of the inner circle, and faced toward the approaching cavalry — he throw- ing up his sword, and they their bayonets, for a ♦ The figure in the Tactics do^s not follow the text The figure makes the circle tangent to the line of battle. The text places i ts centre upon the line. Hardee and Casey follow the French plate in this oversight SUPPLEMENT. 151 signal. The first arriving files rapidly complete this first circle, the sergeants and the bugler throwing themselves into it. The men coming in later form an outer concentric circle — the whole being finally in two ranks, and the circle compact, by reason of the two facts that there are several combatants in the centre, and that the officer by disposing the segment of the first or inner circle, can determine the dimension of both the circles, and graduate it to contain accurately his section or platoon. In forming the circle as above, the men may all take the run without impeding one another — they are gaining ground toward the reserve — the point of the rally is known at once, and no time is lost in the officer’s passing forward to a particular group ; the circle is better formed for firing. It is obvious that the officer can choose the rear of any part of his line for the formation, by simply throw- ing himself to the desired point. Flank Deplo3rments, &c. • In the flank deployments, and in extending and closing, by the flank, it will, perhaps, be admitted on fair consideration that the men should face to- ward the designated point, at the command which indicates to them which it is, not delaying to face till the word March. In close order, men cannoi face and step off in the double-quick step, at one and the same time ; they are not required to step off from a halt, by the flank, in any instance but this, which is an alteration of the drill as prescribed in Scott’s tactics. At the command. By the 152 SUPPLEMENT. flarik take intervals^ the skirmishers should face preparatory to marching at the word March. The text of G-eneral Casey furnishes a means of re-forming the line, after rallying by fours, by sec- tions and by platoons, but does not go beyond this. All rallies are made in the anticipation of ultimate- ly gaining the reserve ; and when rallied hj fours^ sections^ or platoons^ at the assemble, rally on the re- serve, or rallxj on the battalion, t\ie squares or circles should break up at once, and direct themselves to the* rear. In some systems of skirmishing the flanks of the deployed line are bent slightly to the rear, a few files thrown back, forming a curved line. This is, in effect, an application, on a small scale, of the principle of the echelon, and is a guard against being readily outflanked. There are times when its adoption would prove advantageous. Changes of Front. The prescribed system does not seem to provide adequately against an attack on the flank, where it is chiefly to be apprehended. If the enemy should appear suddenly on either flank, neither wheeling nor filing would be a sufficiently prompt movement to oppose him. If the whole line is required to change front to a flank, much time would be lost, the fire would be delayed, and the outward men much fatigued. The centre is always the point of direction, un- less otherwise ordered, and upon the centre as a pivot, changes of front can best be executed in an extended line. SUPPLEMENT. 153 The following method is taken from systems antecedent to our present one, and seems to'l^- serve to be adopted. The captain wishing to change front to the right, will command, 1. Change front io the right. The centre guide places himself on the line, to mark the centre, the right platoon (or section) faces about and then half faces to the right. The left platoon (or section) half faces to the right. The captain commands, 2. March (or Dovhlt- quick — March). The skirmishers direct them- selves, each by the shortest line, upon the new direction, arriving successively, the right wing facing about and aligning on the guide and centre group. 154 SUPPLEMENT. To change front to the left the commands and means are inverse. If the captain wishes to change front, not on the centre, but on the extreme right or left file, the shortest way to form the new front seems to be as follows: The captain commands, 1. Right section forward into line — left section rally. The skirmish- ers of the right wing half face to the right, the guide marks the centre, those of the left wing face to the right. The reserve wheels to the right. 2. March {or, Double-quick — March). The skirmish- ers of the right section form successively into line on the left of the right guide, and perpendicularly to their old line ; the reserve deploys forward on its left file, and upon the line of the first platoon (or section). The left platoon or section rallies in rear of the centre of the line, and acts, for the time, as its reserve. To form line to the left, the commands and means are inverse. This movement places fresh skirmishers in action, and one-fourth more of them on the line ; a decided advantage in the case of a sudden attack. Flankers. Flankers are thrown out, to prevent a sudden attack on a flank, which on a march is the most dangerous of all attacks. They must be at a suf- ficient distance to allow time to the column to form. The distance varies, with the country, and the kind of troops opposed. Three to four hundred paces is an ordinary distance. At night, or in foggy weather, or in a close or intersected country, SUPPLEMENT. 155 or if the enemy’s cavalry hover on the flanks, half the foregoing distance may suffice. The men of a file should keep together and act in concert, one stepping out of the line to examine any suspicious place, whilst the other preserves the chain. A company of a battalion ordered to cover both its flanks, will march out of the column, the first platoon by the right flank, the second by the left ; gain two hundred paces to either flank, and deploy. The groups may be held together, or may deploy into single file. The figure p.l56 will serve to represent the movement ended. Flankers encountering any impassable impedi- ments — streams, bogs, &c. — will not pass around them, leaving them to intervene between them- selves and the column, but will close in toward the flank. On discovering the enemy they will instantly fire. They will resist an attack firmly, retiring only when recalled or overpowered. Flankers must look out for the enemy on the side they protect, should climb the elevations, and examine all places that might serve for conceal- ment. When the column halts, flankers should face outward, and throw out a few files as sentries. Troops should never venture into a wood, pass, or defile, without throwing forward skirmishers, and sending out flankers. Advanced Guard. The advanced guard of infantry may or may not 156 SUPPLEMENT. o o o o o o oo o oo oo oo oo oo oo oo o oo oo oo oo o oo oo oo oo • COMPANY DEPLOYED AS FLANKERS TO A COLUMN, oo oo oo o o oo De deployed in skirmishing order, according to cir- cumstances. If deployed their duties are in many respects the same as those of the flankers. SUPPLEMENT. 157 It is their duty to examine all villages, detached houses, enclosures, &c., before the near approach of the column. If feeling for the enemy, upon discovering him they will not fire, but halt, observing his position, strength, and movements, and communicate to the rear. If, however, they are assailed, they must fire, to give instant notice, and must dispute the ground. But it must be impressed upon the men that they are not to fire unless they are perceived by the enemy, as by doing so they discover to him the presence of their own army. Bear Guard. Light infantry in the rear guard, may be unde- ployed, or it may be in skirmishing order, accord- ing to circumstances. If the column be advancing, the infantry of the rear guard is not usually de- ployed. But if the column be retreating before an enemy, the light infantry is formed in skirmishing order. Their proper front is toward the rear of the column. The company (if it be a company) must jtherefore be countermarched, if necessary. When the rear guard halts, the skirmishers must always face to the side of the enemy. In retiring they must constantly look behind and on the flanks to avoid surprise, and to rally if required. They must seize the positions of strength that the route may offer, to delay and oppose the enemy, falling back from one position to another. In passing a bridge, ford, or defile, the reserve wiU pass first, and extend along the farther side, facing the enemy, to cover the passage of the 14 158 SUPPLEMENT. skirmishers^ The skirmishers on approaching the bridge-head will make a stand, the flanks will im- mediately commence the passage, the extreme right and left files firing and at once retreating, the other files following these in succession, the centre files following last of all. The old line of skirmishers form for a reserve, two hundred paces beyond the bridge, and the late reserve, now deployed, take their places. The duty of skirmishing in the rear guard is so exhausting, that frequent reliefs are absolutely necessary. MILITARY AND NAVAL PUBLICATIONS FROM THE PRESS OF D. VAN NOSTRAND, 192 BROADWAY, NEW YORK. A large Stock of English^ French^ and J> merican Military Works^ constantly on hand. Copies of any of these Books sent free by mail on recow v of the Catalogue price. . 192 Broadway, New York, Military and Naval Publications FROM THE PRESS OF D. TAN NOSTRAND. Copies of any of the books on this Catalogue sent free by mail^ on receipt of the price. SCOTT’S MILITARY DICTIONARY. Comprising Technical Definitions ; Information on Raising and Keeping Troops ; Actual Service, including make- shifts and improved materiel^ and Law, Government, Regulation, and Administration relating to Land Forces. By Colonel H. L. Scott, Inspector General U. S. A. 1 vol, large 8vo, fully illustrated, half morocco. $5. “We cannot speak too much in legitimate praise of this work.’'’ — Rational Intelligencer. “We cordially commend it to public favor.” — Washington Globe. “This comprehensive and skilfully prepared work, supplies a want that has long been felt, and will be peculiarly valuable at this time as a book of Boston Commercial Bulletin. “The Military Dictionary is splendidly got up in every way, and reflects credit on the publisher. The oflicers of every company in the service should possess it.” — N. Y. Tablet. “The work is more properly a Military Encycloprodia, and is pro- fusely illustrated with engravings. It appears to contain every thing that can be wanted in the shape of information by oflicers of all grades.” — Philadelphia North American. “This book is really an Encyclopaedia, both elementary and tech- nical, and as such occupies a gap in military literature which has long been most inconveniently vacant. This book meets a present popular want, and will be secured not only by those embarking In the profession, but by a great number of civilians, who are deter- mined to follow the descriptions, and to understand the philosophy of the various movements of the campaign. Indeed, no tolerably good library would be complete without the work.” — N. Y. Times. Rifles and Eifle Practice. An Elementary Treatise on the Theory of Rifle Firing; ex* plaining the causes , of Inaccuracy of Firing, and the manner of correcting it; with descriptions of the In- fantry Rifles of Europe and the United States, their Balls and Cartridges. By Capt. C. M. Wilcox, U. S. A. New edition, with engravings and cuts.^ Green cloth. $1 75. Adjutant-General's Office, ) Washington, June 28th, 1859. \ Sir: — I am instructed to inform you that the War Department will take one thousand copies of Wilcox’s Treatise on “Eifles and Rifle Practice,” now being published by you. I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, E. D. TOWNSEND, Assistant Adjutant-General. D. Yan Nostrand, Esq., Publisher, city of New York. “The book will be found intensely interesting to all who are watch- ing the changes in the art of war arising from the introduction of the new rifled arms. We recommend to our readers to buy the book.” — Military Gazette. “This book is quite original in its character. That character is completeness. It renders a study of most of the wmrks on the rifle that have been published quite unnecessary. We cordially recom- mend the book.” — United Service Gazette., London. SCHOOL OF THE GUIDES. Designed for the use of the Militia of the United States. Flexible cloth. 60 cents. “The work is carefully got up, and is illustrated by numerous figures, w’hich make the positions of the guides plain" to the com- monest understanding. Those of our sergeants who wish to be ‘posted ’ in their duties should procure a copy.” — Sunday Mercury., Philadelphia. “It has received high praise, and will prove of great service in perfecting the drill of our Militia.”— W. American and U. S. Gazette., Philadelphia. “This neat hand-book of the elementary movements on which the ,art of the tactician is based, reflects great credit on Col. Le Gal, whose reputation is deservedly high among military men. No sol- dier .should be without the ‘ School of the Guides.’ ” — N. Y. Dooly News. Army Officer’s Pocket Oompanion. Principally designed for Staff Officers in the Field. Partly translated from the French of M. de Rouvre, Lieu- tenant-Colonel of the French Staff Corps, with additions from Standard American, French, and English Authori- ties. By Wm P. Craighill, First Lieutenant U. S. | Corps of Engineers, Assistant Professor of Engineering ' at the U. S. Military Academy, West Point. 1 vol. 18mo. Full roan. $1 50. “ I have carefully examined Capt. Craightll’s Pocket Companion. I find it one of the very best works of the kind I have ever seen. Any Army or Volunteer Officer who will make himself acquainted with the contents of this little book, will seldom be ignorant of hlT duties in camp or field.” H. W. HALLECK, Major-General TJ. S. A. “ I have carefully examined the ‘ Manual for Staff Officers in the Field.’ It is a most invaluable work, admirable in arrangement, perspicuously Avritten, abounding in most useful matters, and such a book as shoidd be the constant pocket companion of every army officer, Eegular and Volunteer.” G. W. CULLUM, Brigadier-General U. S. A., Chief of General llallecJc's Staff, Halleck’s International Law. International Law ; or, Rules Regulating the Intercourse of States io;^ Peace and War. By Major-Gen. II. W. Halleck, Commanding the Army. 1 vol. 8vo, law sheep. $6. DICTIONARY OF ALL OFFICERS IN THE UNITED STATES ARMY, From 1789 to January 1st, 1853, and of the Navy and Marine Corps. Second edition, with a Supplement, bringing it down to January 1, 1800. By Col. Cuas, K. Gardner. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth. $3. authority,^ CASEY’S NEW INFANTRY TACTICS, For the Instruction, Exercise, and Manoeuvres of the Sol- dier, a Company, Line of Skirmishers, Battalion, Bri- gade, or Corps d’Arm4e. By Brig.-Gen. Silas Casey, U. S. A. 3 vols. 24mo. Lithographed plates. $2 50. Yol. I. — School of the Soldier; School of the Company; Instruction for Skirmishers. Yol. II. — School of the Battalion. Yok III. — Evolutions of a Brigade; Evolutions of a Corps d’Armee. War Department, Washington, August 11, 1862. The System of Infantry Tactics prepared by Brig.-Gen. Silas Casey, U. S. A., having been approved by the President, is adopted for the instruction of the Infantry of the Armies of the United States, whether Eegular,- Volunteer, or Militia, with the following modifications, viz. : Firsts That portion which requires that two companies shall be permanently detached from the battalion as skirmishers, will be suspended. Second, In Title First, Article First, the following will bo substi- tuted for Paragraph 6. viz. : “A regiment is composed of ten companies, which will be habit- ually posted from right to left in the following order; first, sixth, fourth, ninth, third, eighth, fiifth, tenth, seventh, second, according to tho rank of Captain.” EDWIN M. STANTON, Secretary of War. A Treatise on the Camp and March. With which is connected the Construction of Field Y^'orka and Military Bridges ; with an Appendix -of Artillery Ranges, &c. For the use of Yolunteers and Militia in the United States. By Captain HenRt D. Grafton, U. , S. A. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth. '76 cents. LIEBER ON GUERILLA PARTIES. Ouerilla Parties considered with reference to the Laws and Usages of War. Written at the request of Major-Gen. Henry W. Halleck, General-in-Chief of the Army of the United States. By Francis Lieber, 12mo, paper. 25 cents. Headquarters of the Army, ) • Washington, Aug. 6, 1862. f Dr. Francis Lieber: My Dear Doctor — Having heard that you have given much atten- tion to the usages and customs of war as practised in the present age, and especially to the matter of guerilla war, I hope you may find it convenient to give to the public your views on that subject. The rebel authorities claim the right to send men, in the garb of peaceful citizens, to waylay and attack our troops, to burn bridges and houses, and to destroy property and persons within our lines. They demand that such persons be treated as ordinary belligerents, and that when captured they have extended to them the same rights as other prisoners of war. They also threaten that if such persons be punished as marauders and spies, they will retaliate by executing our prisoners of war in their possession. I particularly request your views on these questions. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, H. W. liALLECK, GeneraUn-Chief U. & A. HAND-BOOK OF ARTILLERY, For the Service of the United States Army and Militia. New and revised edition. By Major Joseph Roberts, U. S. A. 1 vol. 18mo, cloth. $1 25. The following is an extract from a Report made by the committee appointed at a meeting of the staff of the Artillery School at Fort Monroe, Va., to whom the commanding officer of the school had re- ferred this work : * * * “In the opinion of your Committee, the arrangement of the subjects and the selection of the several questions and answers have been judicious. The work is one which may be advantageously used for reference by the officers, and is admirably adapted to the instruction of non-commissioned officers and priv^ates of Artillery. “Your Committee do, therefore, recommend that it be substituted as a text-book in place of ‘ Burns’ Questions and Answers on Ar* tfllery.’” (Signed,) I. YOGDES, Capt 1st Artillery. (Signed,) E. O. C. ORD, Oapt, Sd Artillery. (Signed,) J. A. H ASKIH, Bvt, Maj, and Capt. 1st ArUUery. The Political and Military History OF THB CAMPAIGN OF WATERLOO. Translated from the French of General Baron de Jomini. By Capt. S. V. Benet, U. S. Ordnance. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth, second edition. 75 cents. “Baron Jomini has the reputation of being one of the greatest nriH- itarv historians and critics of the century. His merits have been recogniised by the highest military authorities in Europe, and were rewarded in a conspicuous manner by the greatest military power in Christendom. He learned the art of war in the school of experience, the best and only finishing school of the soldier. He served with distinction in nearly all the campaigns of Napoleon, and it was mainly from the gigantic military operations of this matchless n aster of the art that he was enabled to discover its true principles, and to ascertain the best means of tiieir application in the infinity of com- binations which actual war presents. Jomini criticizes the details of Waterloo with great science, and yet in a manner that interests the g'eneral reader as well as the protessional .”— York World. “ The present volume is the concluding portion of his great work, *Yie Politique et Militaire de Napoleon,’ published in 1826. Capt. Benet’s translation of it has been for some time before the public, and has now reached a second edition ; it is very ably executed, and forms a work which will always be interesting, and especially so at a time when military afiairs are uppermost in the public mind.’— Philadelphia North American. *i71axims and Instructions on the Jirt of W^«r. Maxims, Advice, and Instructions on the Art of War ; or, A Practical Military Guide for the use of Soldiers of all Arms and of all Countries. Translated from the French by Captain Lendy, Director of the Practical Military College, late of the French Staff, &c., &c, 1 vol. 18mo, cloth. 75 cents. “ A book of maxims, that is not as dry as a cask of ‘ remainder bis- cuit,’ is a novelty in literature. The little volume before us is an exception to the general rule. It presents the suggestion of common sense in military" affairs, with a certain brilliancy and point. On« may read it purely or entertainment, and not be disappointed. At the same time, it is full of practical instructions of great value. When found in the i)Ocket of an officer of volunteers, it will be tbo right book in the right place.” — N. Y. Tribune. JVolati^s System for ‘Training Cavalry Horses. By Kenner Garrard, Captain Fifth Cavalry, U. S. A. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth. Twenty-four lithographed plates. |1 ♦ * * “ We are glad when competent men bring forward works lhat are intended to facilitate the formation of an elective cavalry force. Of this class is ‘ JSolan’s System for Training Cavalry Horses ’ prepared for use in this country, by Captain K( nner Garrj^rd, U. S. A. Captain bio an was distinguished in the British service for his knowledge of the cavalry arm, and for h s general talents. As the work hau become out of print, Captain Garrard has done well in reproducing it; he has lidded to it a chapter on Karev's Method of Training Horses, and another on Horse Shoeing. The volume is well illustrated. It cannot be too warmly commended to general use.” — Jdo6ton Daliy JiJceniug Tra'ceUer. “It explains a perfectly successful method of gaining the mastery over .the most refractory horse, and is no less adapted for the use of the rider for exercise, business, or pleasure, than of the cavalry offi- cer. By the plan of the author, the time of training is greatly short- _ ened ; the progress is so gradual that it never makes the horse n- amiable, and the successive lessons tend to the development of mutual love and admiration between the parties.”— A. Y. Tribune. Monroe’s Company Drill. The Company Drill of the Infantry of the Line, together with the Skirmishing Drill of the Company and Bat- talion, after the method of Gen. Le Louterel. And Bayonet Fencing. By Col. J. Monroe, 22d Regt. N. Y. S. M. 24mo, cloth. 50 cents. CAVALEY: ITS HISTORY, MANAGEMENT, AND USES IN WAR. By J. Roemer, late an Officer of Cavalry in the service of the Netherlands. 1 vol. 8vo. With over two himared beautifully engraved illustrations. $5 00. THE ARTILLERIST’S MANUAL. Compiled from various sources, and adapted to the service, of the United States. Profusely illustrated with wood- cuts and engravings on stone. Second edition, revised and corrected, with valuable additions. By Gen. John Gibbon, U. S. A. 1 vol. 8vo, half roan, $5 ; half russia, $6. $ AMERICAN MILITARY BRIDGES, With India-Rubber and Galvanized Iron Pontons and Trestle Supporters, prepared for the use of the Armiei of the United States. By Brig.-Gen. Geo. W. Cullum, Major Corps of Engineers, U. S. A., Chief of the Staff of Major-Gen. Halleck. Second edition, with notes and two additional chapters. 1 vol. 8vo, with plates. In press. JVew Bayonet Exercise. A New Manual of the Bayonet, for the Army and Militia of the United States. By Colonel J. C. Kelton, U. S. A. With thirty beautifully-engraved plates. Red cloth. $1 75. This Manual was prepared for the use of the Corps of Cadets, and has been introduced at the Military Academy with satisfactory results. It is simply the theory of the attack and defence of the sword applied to the bayonet, on the authority of men skilled in the use of arms The Manual contains practical lessons in Fencing, and prescribes the defence against Cavalry, and the manner of conducting a contest with a Swordsman. “ This work merits a favorable reception at the hands of all mil- itary men. It contains all the instruction necessary to enable an officer to drill his men in the use of this weapon. The introduction of the sabre bayonet in our army, renders a knowledge of the exer- cise more imperative,” — A. Y. Times. THE “C. S. A.” AND THE BATTLE OF BULL RUN. (A Letter to an English Friend.) By J. G. Barnard, Major of Engineers, U. S. A., Brigadier-General, and Chief Engineer, Army, of the Potomac. With five maps. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. $1 50. ♦ “ This book was begun by the author as a letter to a friend ia England, but as he proceeded and his MSS. increased in magnitude, he changed his original plan, and the book is the result. General Barnard gives by far the best, most comprehensible and complete account of the Battle of Bull Eun we have seen. It is illustrated by some beautifully drawn maps, prepared for the War Department by the topographical engineers. He demonstrates., to a certainty that but for the causeless panic the day might not have been lost. The author writes with vigor and earnestness, and has contributed on# of the most valuable records yet published of the history of th# war.” — Boston Commercial Bulletin. “A spirited and reliable view of the true character of the secession movement, and a correct account of the Battle of Bull Eun, by a military man whose qualifications for the task are equalled but by few persons.” — Cincinnati Gazette. “The work is clearly written, and can but leave the impression upon every reader’s mind that it is truth. We commend it to the perusal of every one who wants an intelligent, truthful, and graphic description of the ‘C. S. A.’ and the Battle of Bull Eun.” — Neut York Observer. Rhymed Tactics, by “ Gov.” 1 vol. 18mo, paper. With portraits. 25 cents. “It will strike the military man, familiar with the tedious routine of drill, by theory, practice and memory, as a most unique and val- uable method of strengthening the latter, with the least mental ex- ertion. The author is a thorough soldier, and his ability as a rhyme- ster will be conceded by any intelligent reader.” — N. Y. Leader. “Our author deserves great credit for the ingenuity he has dis- played in putting into vei*se a manual which would at first glance aeem to defy the most persistent efforts of the rhymer. The book contains a number of illustrations, representing some of the more diflBcult positions, in the figures of which, portraits of several promi- nent ofiBcers of the New York Volunteers may be recognized.” — Y, Y. Tmies. Siege of Bomarsund (1854). Journals of Operations of the Artillery and Engineers. Published by permission of the Minister of War. Illus- trated by maps and plans. Translated from the French by an Army Officer. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth. '75 cents. Exiropeau Ordnance and Iron«Clad Defenses, With some account of the American Practice, embracing the Fabrication and Test of Heavy Guns; Projectiles and Rifling ; the Manufacture and Te.st of Armor, from official data, with a detailed account of English experi- ments ; the principles, structure, and classification of Iron-Clad Vessels ; Marine Steam Machinery, &c. By ’ Alex. L. Holley, B. P., author of “ American and European Railway Practice,” &c. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. With 250 illustrations. In press. HOLLEY’S RAILWAY PRACTICE. American and European Railway Practice, in the Economi- cal Generation of Steam, including the materials and construction of Coal-burning Boilers, Combustion, the Variable Blast, Vaporization, Circulation, Superheat- ing, Supplying and Heating Feed- water, &c., and the adaptation of Wood and Coke-burning Engines to Coal- burning; and in Permanent Way, including Road-bed, Sleepers, Rails, Joint Fastenings, Street Railways, &c., &c. By Alexander L. Holley, B. P. With '7'7 litho- graphed plates. 1 voL folio, cloth. $10. ELEMENTS OP military Art and History. Conaprising the History of the Tactics of the separate Arms, the Combination of the Arms, and the minor operations of war. By Edward de la Barre Duparcq, Captain of Engineers, and Professor of the Military Art in the Imperial School of Saint Cyr. Translated by Brig.-Gen. George W. Cullum, U. S. A., Chief of the Staff of Major-General H. W. Halleck, U. S. A. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. $4. BENET’S MILITARY LAW. A Treatise on Military Law and the Practice of Courts- Martial. By Capt. S. V. Benet, Ordnance Department, U. S. A., late Assistant Professor of Ethics, Law, &c., Military Academy, West Point. Adopted as the Text- Book at the Militarjj^ Academy, West Point. 1 vol. 8vo, law sheep. $3. Judge Advocate General’s Office, ) October 13, 1862. f * * * So far as I have been enabled to examine this volume, it seems to me carefully and accurately prepared, and I am satisfied that you have rendered an acceptable service to the army and the country by its publication at this moment. In consequence of the gigantic proportions, so suddenly assumed by the military operations of the Government, there have been necessarily called into the field, from civil life, a vast number of officers, unacquainted from their previous studies and pursuits, both with the principles of military law and with the course of judicial proceedings under it. To all such, this treatise will prove an easily accessible storehouse of knowledge, which it is equally the duty of the soldier in command to acquire, as it is to learn to draw his sword against the common enemy. The military spirit of our people now being thorouahly aroused, added to a growing conviction that in future we may have to depend quite as much upon the bayonet as upon the ballot box for the preservation of our institutions, cannot fail to secure to this work an extended and earnest appreciation. In bringing the results of legislation and of decisions upon the questions down to so recent a period, the author has added greatly to the interest and usefulness of the volume. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, J. HOLT. TEXAS, AND ITS LATE MILITARY OCCUPATION AND EVACUATION. By Capt. Edwin D. Phillips, 1st Infantry, U. S. A. 8vo, paper. 25 cents. OFFICIAL ARMY REGISTER FOR 1862, New edition. 8vo, paper. 50 cents. JVautical Routine and Stowage. With Short Rules in Navigation. By John McLeod Mur- phy and Wm. N. Jeffers, Jr., TJ. S. N. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. $2 50. Mordecai’s Report. Military Commission to Europe in 1855 and 1856. Report of Major Alfred Mordecai, U. S. Ordnance Depart- ment. 1 vol. folio. With views and maps. |2 60. Delafleld’s Report. Report on the Art of War in Europe in 1854, 1855, and 1856. By Col. R. Delafield, Corps of Engineers, U. S. A. 1 vol. folio, cloth. With maps and views. $5. HINTS TO COMPANY OFFICERS. By Capt. C. C. Andrews, 3d Regt. Minnesota Vols. 1 vol. 18mo, cloth. 50 cents. VIELE’S HAND-BOOK. Hand-Book for Active Service, containing Practical In- structions in Campaign Duties. For the use of Volun- teers. By Brig.-Gen. Egbert L. Yiele, U. S. A. 12mo, cloth. $1. Gunnery in 1858. A Treatise on Rifles, Cannon, and Sporting Arms. By Wm. Greener, C. E. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. $3. Manual of Heavy Artillery. For the use of Volunteers. 1 vol. 12rao, red cloth. 76 cents. “ Should be in the hands of every Artillerist." — V. Y. Illustrated News. “This is a concise and well-prepared Manual, adapted to the wants of Volunteers. The instruction, which is of an important nature, is presented in a simple and clear style, such as will be easily under- stood. The volume is also illustrated with explanatory cuts and drawings. It is a work of practical value, and cne needed at the present time in the service .” — Boston Commercial Bulletin^ “ An indispensable Manual for all who wish easily and accurately to learn the school of the Artillerist.” — N. Y. Commercial Adver- tiser. AUSTRIAN INFANTRY TACTICS. Evolutions of the Line as practised by the Austrian In- fantry, and adopted in 1863. Translated by Capt. C. M. Wilcox, Seventh Regiment U. S. Infantry. 1 vol. 12mo. Three large plates. Cloth. $1. NEW MANUAL OF SWORD AND SABRE EXERCISE. By Colonel J. C. Kklton, U. S. A. Thirty plates. 1% press. Benton’s Ordnance and Ounnery, A Course of Instruction in Ordnance and Gunnery, com- piled for the use of the Cadets of the United States Military Academy. By Capt. J. G. Benton, Ordnance Department, late Instructor of Ordnance and Gunnery, Military Academy, West Point. Principal Assistant to Chief of Ordnance, U. S. A. Second edition, revised and enlarged. 1 vol. 8vo, half morocco, cuts. $4. We cannot command this work too highly, both for the substance It eci:tains, and the highly finished manner in which it has been is- sued ly the publisher. There is no one book within the range of our mritary reading and study, that contains more to recommend it upon the subject of which it treats. It is as full and complete as the narrow compass of a single volume would admit, and the reputation of the author as a scientific and pract cal artillerist, is a sufiicient guarantee for the correctness of his statements and deductions, and the thoroniliness of his labors.” — N. Y. Obserxer, “A GRE*fT Military Work. — We have before us a bound vol- ume of near’y 600 pages, which is a complete and exhaustive ‘Course of InstructioM in Ordnance and Gunnery,’ as its title states, and goes into every department of the science, including gunpowder, projec- tiles, cannon, carriages, machines and implements, small arms, py- rotechny, scieTice of gunnery, loading, pointing and discharging fire- arms, different kinds of fires, effects of projectiles and employment of artillery. These severally form chapter heads, and give thorough information on the subjects on Avhich they treat. The most valuable and interesting information on all the above topics, including the history, manufacture, and use of small arms, is here concentrated in compact and convenient form, making a work of rare merit and standard excellence. The work is abundantly and clearly illustra- ted .” — Boston Traveller. SIEGE AND REDUCTION OP Fort Pulaski, G-eorgia. Papers on Practical Engineering. No. 8. Official Report to the U. S. Engineer Department of the Siege and Re- duction of Fort Pulaski, Ga., February, March, and April, 1862. By Brig.^General Q. A. Gillmore, U. S. A. Illustrated by Maps and Views. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. :$2 50. SWORD-PLAY. THE MILITIAMAN’S MANUAL AND SWORD- PLAY WITHOUT A MASTER. Rapier and Broad-Sword Exercises copiously Explained and Illustrated; Small- Arm Light Infantry Drill of the United States Army ; Infantry Manual of Percussion Muskets; Company Drill of the United States Cavalry. By Major M. W. Berriman, engaged for the last thirty years in the practical instruction of Military Students. Second edition. 1 vol. I2mo, red cloth. $1. “Captain Berriman has had thirty years' experience, in teaching military students, and his work is written in a simple, clear, and sol- dierly style. It is illustrated with twelve ]>lates, and is one of the cheapest and most complete works of the kind published in this eounLy.” — A. Y. World. “This work will be found very valuable to all persons seeking military instruction; but it recommends itself most especially to officers, and those who have to use the sword or sabre. We believe it is the only work on the use of the sword published in this coun- try.”- A. Y. Tablet. Jflamml for Engineer Troops. Consisting of — Part I. Ponton Drill. II. Practical Operations of a Siege. III. School of the Sap. IV. Military Mining. V. Construction of Batteries. By Captain J. C. Duane, Corps of Engineers, U. S. A. 1 vol. 12mo, half morocco, with plates. $2. “ I have carefully examined Capt. J. C, Duane’s ‘ Manual for En- gineer Troops,’ and do not hesitate to pronounce it the very best work on the subject of which it treats.” H. W. HALLECK, Major-General, U. S. A. “A work of this kind haS’ been much needed in our military lit- erature. For the army’s sake, I hope the book will have a wide circulation among its officers.” G. B. McClellan, Major-General, U. S. A. Gunnery Instructions. Simplified for the Volunteer Officers of the U. S. Navy, with hints to Executive and other Officers. By Lieut.- Commander Edward Barrett, U. S. N., Instructor in Gunnery, Navy Yard, Brooklyn. Second edition, re- vised and enlarged. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth. $1 25. “ It is a thorough work, treating plainly on its subject, and con- tains also some valuable hints to executive officers. No officer in the volunteer navy should be without a copy.” — Boston Evening Traveller. “This work, which is appropriately dedicated to the Acting Mas- ters and Masters’ Mutes of the United States Navy, contains detailed and specific instructions on all points connected with the use and manatiement of guns of every kind in the naval service. It has full illustrations, and many of these of the most elementary character, especially designed for the use of volunteers in the navy. The du- ties of executive officers and of the division officers are so clearly set forth, that ‘ he who runs may read ’ and understand. The manual exercise is explicit, and rendered simple by diagrams. Forms of watch and quarter bills are given ; and at the close there is a table of ranges according to the kind and caliber of gun, the weight of the ball and the charge of powder. A valuable little hand-book.”— adelphia Inquirer. “I have looked through Lieut. Barrett’s book, jfnd think it will be very valuable to the volunteer officers who are now' in the naval service.” C. E. P. RODGERS, Commanding U. S. Steam Frigate Wabash. ELEMENTARY INSTRUCTION IN NAVAL ORDNANCE AND GUNNERY. By James H. Ward, Commander U. S. N., Author of “ Naval Tactics,” and “ Steam for the Million.” New edition, revised and enlarged. 8vo, cloth. $2. “It conveys an amount of information in the same space to be found nowhere else, and given with a clearness w'hich renders it useful as w'ell to the general as the professional inquirer.” — N. Y. Evening Post. “This volume is a standard treatise upon the subject to which it is devoted. It abounds in valuable information upon all the points bearing upon Naval Gunnery.” — F. Y. Commercial Advertiser. “The work is an exceedingly valuable one, and is opportunely issued.” — Boston Joicrnal. SCREW PROPULSION. Notes on Screw Propulsion, its Rise and History, By Capt. W. H. Walker, U. S. N. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. 75 cents. * thoroughly demonstrating the efficiency of the screw, Mr. Walker proceeds to point out the various other points to be attended to in order to secure an efficient man-of-war »and eulogizes throughout the readiness of the British Admiralty to test every novelty calculated to give satisfactory results. * * * Com- mander Walkers book contains an immense amount of concise, practical data, and every item of information recorded, fully proves that the various points bearing upon it have been well considered previously to expressing an OTgimon:'— London Mining Journal. “ Every engineer should have it in his library.”— ulmerican Eti* gineer. •M Treatise on Ordnance and JYaval Gunnery. Compiled and arranged as a Text-Book for the U. S. Naval Academy. By Lieut. -Commander Edward Simpson, U. S. N. Second edition, revised and enlarged. 1 vol. 8 VO, plates and cuts, half morocco. $4. Bueeatt of Ordnance and HYDBOORAPnY, \ July 9th, 1859. f Sir:—* * * The Secretary of the Navy approves of the use of this work as a text-book for the Academy. * * * * Respectfully, your obedient servant, J). N. INGRAHAM, Chief of Bureau. Capt. G. S. Blake, Superintendent of Naval Academy, Annapolis, Md. “ It is scarcely necessary for us to say that a work prepared by a writer so practically conversant with all the subjects of which he treats, and who has such a reputation for scientific ability, cannot fail to take at once a high place among the text-books of our naval service. Ith?s been approved by the Secretary of the Navy, and will henceforth be one of the standard authorities on all matters connected with Naval Gunnery.” — N. Y. Herald. “ Originally designed as a text-book, it is now enlarged, and so far modified in its plan as to make it an invaluable hand-book for the naval officer. It is comprehensive — preserving the cream of many of the best books on ordnance and naval gunnery, and is printed and illustrated in the most admirable macner.” — N. Y. World. Notes on Sea-Coast Defence, Consisting of Sea-Coast Fortification ; the Fifteen-Jnch Gun, and Casemate Embrasures. By Gen. J. G. Bar- nard, Corps of Engineers, U. S. A. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth, plates. $1 50. “This small volume, by one of the most accomplished officers in the United States service, is especially valuable at this time. Con- cisely and thoroughly Major Barnard discusses the subjects included in this volume, arid gives information that will be read with great profit by military men, and by all interested in the art of war as a defensive force.” — N. Y. Commercial. “It is no light compliment when we say that Major Barnard's book does no discredit to the corps to which he belongs. He writes concisely, and wdth a thorough knowledge of his subject.” — Hussell'i Army and JYavy Gazette. STEAM FOR THE MILLION. A Popular Treatise on Steam and its Application to the Useful Arts, especially to Navigation. By J. H. Ward, Commander, U. S. N. New and revised edition. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth. $1. ” A most excellent work for the young engineer and general reader. Many facts relating to the management of the boiler and engine are set forth wdth a simplicity of language, and perfection of detail, that brings the subject home to the reader. Mr. Ward is also peculiarly happy in his illustrations.”— AweWcan Engineer. STANDING ORDERS OF THE SEVENTH REGIMENT, NATIONAL GUARD. For the Regulation and Government of the Regiment in the Field or in Quarters. By A. Duryee, Colonel. New edition. Flexible cloth. 40 cents. edition of a popular work, cannot fail to be ^ presenting clearly and succinctly the prin- f discipline of a most favorite corpl An ap. ^oprmte mdex facilitates reference to the matter of the volume HISTORY OF THE United States Uaval Academy, With Biographical Sketches, and the names of all the Superintendents, Professors, and Graduates, to which is added a Record of some of the earliest Votes by Con- gress, of Thanks, Medals, and Swords to Naval Officers. By Edward Chauncey Marshall, A. M. 1 vol. 12mo, cloth, plates. $1. “ The book before us affords a good account of the naval school from its first establishment under the auspices of Secretary Bancroft, with full statements of the regulations, requisites for admission, course of study, etc. It is a seasonable and useful contribution to the history of education in this country.” — J/.' Y. Independent. “This is a most welcome volume. All that throws light on the history of our army and navy, now needs study ; and the Naval Academy, though really so recent, well deserves a history. Mr. Marshall has depicted, in clear and graphic language, the vain strug- gle for years to give our navy, what the navy of every nation has, an academy to form the young ofldcers for their important duties.” — N. Y. Historical Magazine. ' “Every naval man will find it not only a pleasant companion, but an invaluable book of reference. It is seldom that so much informa- tion is made accessible in so agreeable a manner in so small a space,” — N. Y. Times. TOTTEN’S MYAL TEXT-BOOK. Naval Text-Book and Dictionary, compiled for the use of the Midshipmen of the U. S. Navy. By Commander B. J. Totten, U. S. N. Second and revised edition. 1 vol. 12mo. $2 50. “This work is prepared for the Midshipmen of the United States Navy. It is a complete manual of instructions as to the duties which pertain to their office, and appears to have been prepared with great care, avoiding errors and inaccuracies which had crept into a former edition of the work, and embracing valuable additional mat- ter. It is a book which should bo in the hands of every midshipman, and officers of high rank in the navy would often find it a useful panion - ” — Boston Journal. THE AUTOMATON REGIMENT, OB Infantry Soldiers’ Practical Instructor. For all REGIMENTAL MOVEMENTS IN THE FIELD. By G. Douglas Brewerton, U. S. Army. Neatly put up in boxes, price $1 ; when sent by mail, SI 40. The “ Automaton Reffiment ” is *a simple combination of blocks and counters, so arranged and de^iarnated by a carefully considered contrast of colors, that it supplies the student with a perfect minia- ture regiment, in which the position in the battalion of each compa- ny, and of every officer and man in each division, company, platoon and section, is clearly indicated. It supplies the studious soldier with the means whereby he can consult his “■ tactics,” and at the same time join practice to theory by manoeuvring a mimic regiment. Headquarters, Military Governor, ) ^ Department of the South, V Beaufort, South Carolina, Oct. 21st, 1S62. ) I hereby certify that I have examined the “Automaton Regi- ment,” invented by G. Douglas Brewerton, late of the U. S. Regular now serving as a Volunteer Aid upon my military staff, and believe that his invention will prove a useful and valuable assist- ant to every student of military tactics. I take pleasure in recom- mending it accordingly. R. SAXTON Brig. -General Volunteers. A System of Target Practice. For the use of Troops when armed with the Musket, Rifle- Musket, Rifle, or Carbine. Prepared, principally from the French, by Captain Henry Heth, 10th Infantry, U. S. A. 60 cents. “War Department, W ashi ngton, March 1 st, 1 85S. The ‘System of Target Practice,’ prepared under direction of the War Department, by Captain Henry Heth, 10th Infantry, having THE AUTOMATON COMPANY; OR, Infantry Soldiers’ Practical Instructor. For all COMPANY MOVEMENTS IN THE FIELD. By G. Douglas Brewerton, U. S, A. Price in boxes, $1 25^ when sent by mail, $1 95. THE AUTOHATOlSr BATTERY; OR, Artillerists’ Practical Instructor. For all MOUNTED ARTILLERY MANOEUVRES IN THE FIELD. By G. Douglas Brewerton, U. 3. A. Price in boxes, $1 ; when sent by mail, $1 40. • — ■ UNION rOUl^DATIOMS. A Study of American Nationality, as a Fact of Science. By Capt. E. B. Hunt, Corps of Engineers, U. S. A, 1 vol., 8 VO., cloth. MODELS OF FORTIFICATIONS. VATJBAFS PIEST SYSTEM. One Front and two Bastions— Scale, 20 yards to an inch. THE MODEEH SYSTEM. One Front— Scale, 20 yards to an inch. riELD-WOEKS. The Square Redoubt — Scale, 5 yards to an inch. li'ir. Kimber’s three volumes, viz., Vauban’s First System, The Modern System, and Field-Works, will accompany the modefe. Zicssons and Practical JYotes on Steam^ The Steam Engine, Propellers, &c., &c., for Young Marine Engineers, Students, and others. By the late W. R.. King, U, S. N. Revised by Chief-Engineer J. W. King, U. S. N. Third edition, enlarged. 8vo, cloth. $1 60. “This is a new edition of a valuable work of the late W. E. King, XT. S. N. It contains lessons and practical notes on Stesm and the Steam Engine, Propellers, &c. It is calculated to be of great use to young marine engineers, students, and others. The text is illustra- ted and explained by numerous diagrams and representations of machinery. This new edition has been revised and enlarged by Chief Engineer J. W. King, U. S. N., brother to the deceased author of the work.” — Boston Daily Advertiser. “This is one of the best, because eminently plain and practical, treatises on the Steam Engine ever published.” — Philadelphia Press. “ Its re-publication at this time, when so many young men are entering the service as naval engineers, is most opportune. Each of them ought to have a copy.” — Philadelphia Evening Bulletin. MANUAL OP INTERNAL RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR MEN-OF-WAR. By Commodore U. P. Levy, U. S. N., late Flag-Officer commanding U. S. Naval Force in the Mediterranean, &c. Third edition, revised and enlarged. AVith Rules and Regulations for the Engineer Department. By A. C. Stimers, Chief-Engineer U. S. N. Flexible blue cloth. 60 cents. “ Among the professional publications for which we are indebted to the war, we willingly give a prominent place to this useful little Manual of Eules and Eegulations to be observed on board of ships ^of war. Its authorship is a sufficient guarantee for its accuracy and practical value ; and as a guide to young officers in providing for the discipline, police, and sanitary government of the vessels under their command, we know of nothing superior.” — N. Y. Herald. “ Should be in the hands of every naval officer, of whatever grade, and will not come amiss to any intelligent mariner.” — Boston Trav- eller. * ^ “ A work which will prove of great utility, in both the naval ser- nnrt tVio Tr>ovooy^<-U/\ P.r.7^-W y. .. .. e NAVAL LIGHT AETILLERY. Instruction for Naval Light Artillery, afloat and ashore, prepared and arranged for the U. S. Naval Academy. By Lieut, W. H. Parker, U. S. N. Second edition revised by Lieut. S. B. Luce, U. S, N., Assistant Ir structor of Gunnery and Tactics at the United State, Naval Academy. 1 vol. 8vo, cloth, with 22 plates. $1 50. “The service for which this is the text-hook of instruction, is of special importance in the present war. The use of light boat-pieces is constant and important, and young officers are frequently obliged to leave their boats, take their pieces ashore, and manoeuvre them as field artillery. Not unfrequently, also, they are incorporated, when ashore, with troops, and must handle their guns like the artil- lery soldiers of a battery. ‘The E.vercise of the Howitzer Afloat’ was prepared and arranged by Captain Dahlgren, whoso name gives additional sanction and value to the b(x>k. A Manual for the Sword 1 and Pistol is also given. The plates are numerous and exceedingly clear, and the whole typography excellent .” — Philadelphia In- j quiver, ' ! evolutions op field batteries op ARTILLERY. Translated from the French, and arranged for the Army and Militia of the United States. By Gen. Robert Anderson, U. S. A. 'Published by order of the War Department. 1 vol. cloth, 32 plates. $1. ■War Department, Nov. 2d, 1859. The System 'of “ Evolutions of Field Batteries,” tran.slated from the French, and arranged for the service of the United States, by Major Robert Anderson., of the 1st Regiment of Artillery, having been approved by the President, is published for the information and government of the army. AH Evolution.s of Field Batteries not embraced in this system, are prohibited, and those herein prescribed will be strictly observed. J. B. FLOYD, Secretary of War, “This system having been adopted by the War Department, is to the artillerist what Hardee’s Tactics is to the infantry soldier ; the want of a wmrk like this has been seriously felt, and will be f