The Column is a solid figure, comprehending four right angles, and whose opposite sides are equal to each other. This figure represents a parallelogram, the two shortest sides are termed, one the head, and the other the foot of the Column, or the front and rear of it; and the longest sides are called the flanks. But this form is not always observed or regarded, for sometimes the Column is broader than it is deep or long, and sometimes approaching to a square, just as the person in command will judge necessary to determine; but in which ever of the above forms the Column is constructed, the terms of its sides are immutable; for the side which leads is called the front, its opposite the rear, and its other sides the flanks.

The use of the Column is, either to form a line of march, to attack a pass, retrenchment, or a breach made in the works of a fortified place; and therefore the head, front or breadth of the Column is made more or less extensive in proportion to the service for which it is designed.

There are two sorts of columns, one is composed of files, the other of ranks. That which is formed of files, is nothing more but a battalion or a body of men drawn up three deep; and then faced either to the right or left, and marched in that order; but should this breadth be deemed not sufficiently extensive, then to it is added more troops formed in the same manner, to make out the breadth or front required. [146] With respect to the Column made up of ranks, it is formed from a battalion or a body of men drawn up also three deep; and then that body of men is told off into divisions, each division being of the same extent of the intended head or front of the Column; and those divisions are afterwards wheeled or placed in the succession of each other from front to rear.

Each of these two sorts of columns has its particular advocates in point of choice; some preferring that composed of files, while others esteem that which is formed of ranks. Were these different opinions limited to particular and not general uses, each might occasionally be adopted, and an advantage be obtained from it. but to say that either Column is fit for all purposes, I must condemn the assertion; since it will appear, upon a little reflection, that the sort of Column, which is necessary for one kind of service, will be found inconvenient or improper on a different occasion; and by the want of making this just distinction, and by the parties confining themselves to general and not to particular points, each becomes a bigot to his own opinion, and in consequence irreconcileable to any other. To remove then a prejudice so ill founded, I shall first endeavour to shew the power and force of the Column itself, that a just idea may be had of its importance; and next, how in consequence to apply it, under either form, suitable to the occasion, that it may in its operation produce the better effect.

The Column then, besides the definition already given of it, is a large, close, heavy, compacted body. Its success chiefly depends upon the impetuosity of its progress in its solid form; the weight and force of which being so great, when thus put in motion, that no [147] accessible line of men, retrenchment or barricade, of equal extent to its breadth can resist it, but like a torrent bears down all before it. And though the head of it may suffer much from the fire of such line, retrenchment or barricade, yet by its continually advancing and pressing on, and fresh men still presenting themselves to supply the places of the dead and wounded, it must at length arrive at the point of attack, before those who defend can possibly be prepared and ready to receive it afresh; and then of course a rout ensues, through a sense that the means of a repulse is no longer in their power.

On the other hand, the Column is also to be considered from the nature of its construction, as a body extremely unwieldy in itself, not only requiring much time and space for the operation of its evolutions, either to reduce or to alter its form, but liable besides from the least violent impression made upon it, to be involved in great disorder and confusion, by the parts being then broke and disjointed, and not so easily again put into order. It is a body that likewise requires the greatest equability and regularity in its movement and progress, otherwise it will unavoidably open, which must of course extend its rear beyond a proper distance, and by that means enfeeble its flanks, and expose it to total destruction from any sudden attack made at the time upon it. And though it is a body irresistible in itself by any line of equal extent to its front, yet it must ever be remembered how much that advantage diminishes in proportion as that line increases, or is more extensive than the front of the Column. And for instance,

Suppose two battalions of an equal force, and of a like establishment, oppose each other. The one forms [148] the Line and the other the Column. That of the line is told off into eight divisions or platoons; and that of the other into four divisions, formed into a Column either of ranks or of files; and that the attack of which is made on the centre of the opposite battalion, whose two centre divisions are, I shall suppose, of equal extent to the head of the Column. Now it is evident that this Column will not only be exposed in its progress to a direct fire from the two centre divisions, but also to the flanking cross fire of the three other divisions belonging to each wing of the line; and as those, who give these three flanking fires on each side, will have nothing to apprehend from the immediate attack of the Column to flurry or discompose them, therefore their fire will have the most certain effect, being delivered both with coolness and regularity; and though the surviving part of the Column should nevertheless still press on, the line will then have nothing more to do, but to open to the right and left at the centre, and to suffer the head of the Column just to pass through, and then for each wing to close in immediately upon it, and to charge it in flank with fixed bayonets before it can have time to recover itself from the disordered condition it must have consequently been thrown into by such a powerful weight of fire upon it, and then inevitable destruction will as quickly follow.

Hence appears the necessity for examining, and weighing well beforehand, what flanking force there is to oppose the Column in its progress; and where that is found to be too great for an open attack, then recourse must be had to stratagem; that is, where a real attack can be concealed and made by surprise, or where a variety of feints can be introduced remote from the true attack, which may divert the attention of [149] those who defend such feints, then the Column will have its due weight, and will seldom or never miscarry.

Having thus shewn the power and force of the Column, I shall next represent what sort of Column will be necessary to apply under different circumstances, which I shall endeavour to examplify [sic] by the following cases.

Case I. Suppose a retrenchment is to be attacked, and that from a neglect, or from the nature of the ground on the other side of it, no reserve of troops are there posted to meet and attack the head of the column on its forcing that retrenchment; and consequently all that is to be apprehended, is the attack of those on each side to take the Column in flank.

Conformable to this case, I would make choice of the Column composed of files, because, after it has penetrated, it can, on facing to the right and left outwards from the centre, instantly move forwards, either to charge those in flank, who may have still remained behind their works, and disperse them, or to oppose a front to those who, more remote, may there have formed a line parallel to the shaft of the Column.

Case II. Suppose a barricade or retrenchment is to be attacked, and that the enemy forms his line behind it at some convenient distance, in order to sustain that work, and to attack the head of the Column as it advances; and that the Column on its part has nothing to apprehend for its flanks, knowing the nature and situation of such works, which cannot admit of a flanking force sufficient to annoy or impede it in its progress. [150]

Under the circumstance of this case, I should prefer the Column composed of ranks, because the rear divisions of which can by facing to the right and left outwards, easily after join the leading division of the Column, and so form the line; which a Column of files cannot conveniently, or so expeditiously do, on account of the large sweep which the several parts must take in wheeling to accomplish that operation, besides the risk of being thrown into disorder by such an attempt.

Note. This Column I would likewise prefer for the purpose of forming the line on coming out of a pass or strait, where no flanking force is apprehended to oppose me.

Case III. Suppose a retrenchment is to be attacked, and that it is foreseen the enemy will, in order to support it, not only form a line to attack the head of the Column, but will likewise form a line on each side to attack the Column in flank.

In this situation I should make choice of what I call the mixed Column; that is, I would have the centre part of the Column formed of ranks, and each flank of files, in order that such Column may answer the united purposes of the two last cases, both for front and flank attacks as is here required.

Case IV . Suppose you are to meet the enemy in a street, road, or such like situation, where you and he are equally alike inclosed in such pass, and that neither of you can attack each other’s flank.

In this case I should prefer the Column formed of ranks, because, as most, if not all roads, streets, etc., are seldom of an equal [151] breadth in all parts, this column can, from its construction, easily contract itself by doubling its ranks, or again unfold itself to its former breadth, as the occasion requires, which operation a Column of files cannot effect. And as to the method of attack, which I would venture to direct in this situation, it should be, instead of making use of that absurd form of street fire which is now practised, to have the ranks to extend to the full breadth of such pass, with directions, on no account to fire before ordered, but to make use of the bayonet, and decide the affair by manly vigour. The advantages of which method are these, first, the enemy cannot get in upon either of your flanks to disorder you, the whole space being filled up. And next, as the enemy will be ignorant of your design to reserve your fire, and to depend solely upon your bayonet, he will most probably give his fire on your advancing, which as surely as he does, he is inevitably lost; there being, I may venture to affirm, not an instance to be produced, where soldiers have imprudently thrown away their fire, and not finding the effect which they hoped to receive from it, did not, on being instantly after close pushed, think themselves incapable of all further resistance, and in consequence turn round on those in their rear to seek flight that way; and by the panic they communicate, throw all into confusion and disorder. The only danger attending an attack of this sort is, the risk you run of your men giving their fire first, and then the tables may be easily turned upon yourself, which to guard against, I would recommend that the front ranks be not permitted to load, which, instead of lessening their courage, will serve to increase their vigour in the attack, knowing their bayonet is to be [152] their only dependance, together with the certain spirit that an advancing motion will ever excite; but this disposition is a circumstance which must be, to the moment it is carried into execution, kept a profound secret from the enemy, lest his knowledge of it should serve to invigorate his defence, and make your own efforts the weaker. And besides the above direction, that those immediately in the rear of the front ranks be ordered on receiving the enemy’s fire, to rush instantly on over the dead and wounded, and charge the enemy alone with their bayonets, and not to fire but where personal resistance is offered, and then to pursue the blow, and conquest will as rapidly follow.

I have said above, "That absurd form of street fire;" and absurd I must beg leave to call it, and for the following reasons. In our present discipline we practise two methods of street firing; the one is, by making the division that has fired, to wheel afterwards by half ranks to the right and left outwards from the centre, and to march in that order by half-divisions down the flanks on each side of the Column, and to draw up in the rear, and there go on with their priming and loading. The other method is, to make the division, on having fired, to face to the right and left outwards from the centre, and one half rank to follow the other; and in that order to march in one entire file down on each side of the Column into the rear, and there draw up as before.

Now by the first method it is evident, that you must, at the very least, have a front of ground double the extent of your rank; otherwise, the division that fires cannot wheel out and march into the rear, in the order prescribed; consequently, by the advantage the enemy will possess in having a front double in extent to yours, it will [153] enable him, not only to return your attack with a front of equal force, but to attack you at the same time on each flank with a quarter force more, besides the further advantage you necessarily give him by the time which you must unavoidably spend in the wheeling out of your half ranks, in order to clear your front for the succeeding division to come up and fire in turn, which are circumstances in themselves sufficient to afford an opportunity to an enemy to destroy any column that will make use of such a firing.

And as to the other method of street firing, though you increase by it the extent of your ranks, and consequently the weight of your fire; yet it is no less certain, that what is thus gained in rank or front is more than lost in time, by still the more tedious form of making the half ranks to face to the right, and left outwards, and to follow each other into the rear, which is an opportunity that a sagacious spirited enemy will not fail to improve, and take advantage of to your total destruction.

Hence it appears, how necessary it is to discover the sort of discipline practised by the enemy, and by knowing its defects you will be enabled to make a provision accordingly, and to turn them to your future advantage.

The above being my reasons for condemning the street-fire, I shall take no further notice of it in the following work, but proceed to those points which I judge to be more essential in themselves. [154]

Direction.

See word of command I. Sect. III. Chap. III.

Direction.

The battalion having been told off into ten divisions, and numbered from right to left, and nominated as directed in Sect. I. Instruction II. of this Chapter; then all those divisions of the right wing are to face inwards to the left, as are those of the left wing to the right, excepting the three inward files of the second and third grand divisions on each side of the centre of the battalion, which are to stand fast, and be the leading files of their respective grand divisions.

Direction.

The whole battalion is to step off together. The leading files at the centre of the battalion are to march straight forward, and as soon as the other files of the same grand divisions come up to the ground from whence the leading files had marched, they are successively to wheel and follow their leaders in a direct line. The inward single files of the first and fourth grand divisions are, at the same time, to make an half wheel to the front, and to march out, and lead in an oblique direction their respective grand divisions to join the [155] two centre grand divisions, so as that the whole may form in an even and parallel direction with each other. And as to the first and tenth divisions, representing the grenadiers on the flanks of the battalion, their inward single files are likewise to make an half wheel to the front, and to lead their respective divisions to the head of the Column where they are to join each other in the front, not by files, as the other parts of the battalion have done, but by ranks, and at the distance of about twenty paces advanced.

The reason for making the grenadiers form by ranks at the head of the column is this; that by their making a greater front that the column itself, they may so much the more cover the flanks of it from the opposite fire of the enemy, and that by their embracing a greater extend of the enemy’s front, they may the better divert his fire from the column; by which means when the column comes to arrive at the point of attack, as it will suffer less to weaken and disorder it, it must of course be more vigorous and regular in its assault.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

The reason of this halt is to see that the whole is completely formed, and in proper order to advance. [156]

Direction.

The whole is to step off together, beginning the march with the left foot, and to preserve throughout an equal measure and the same pace, otherwise the column will unavoidably open, and the rear will of course extend itself beyond its proper distance from the front, and consequently will diminish its weight and weaken its efforts, and therefore as there is no one operation in discipline which requires more a greater equability of motion in its progress than this one, I would have the column always to advance or retreat, either by music or by some other sound, which can minutely point out the time of the step.

The column having pierced the enemy’s line or works, the following words of command are to be given, in order to maintain the ground so acquired, and to disperse afterwards such of the enemy as my attempt to attack the column.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast, and instantly to close up to proper distance. [157]

Direction.

The two grand divisions on the right of the centre are to face to the right, as are those on the left to the left, and the grenadiers are to remain, as before, faced to the front.

Direction.

The two flank grand divisions are to march straight forward, but the two centre grand divisions are to stand back to back, in order to advance occasionally to sustain the others.

Note. This operation will be explained better farther on.

Direction.

They are to stand fast.

Direction.

The two flank divisions are to go to the right about, and to march, and join, as before, the two centre divisions; which being effected, the whole with the grenadiers are then to face to the rear. [158]

Direction.

The whole is to step off, beginning the march with the left foot.

Note. For as much as it was indispensably necessary for the Column to observe great order in advancing, so much is it more incumbent now in retreating; this being the only critical moment for the enemy, if he has any cavalry at all, to attack the column in flank, and therefore the greatest and nicest regularity is to be maintained in its present movement. And under this order of march, should it be attacked, it will then have nothing more to do, but to halt and face outward from the centre, and keep close back to back, but the rear files, which now lead the retreat of the column, are not, so far as three deep, to face outward with the rest, but to remain faced to the rear; by which means the column will then, on the grenadiers closing in at the same time to the column, and coming to the right about, form a perfect front to each of its four sides. Why I would thus have the grenadiers still to remain at the head of the column, instead of letting one division of them to lead the retreat is, that by their conjoint weight they may the better repel the enemy, who will not fail on this occasion to make a vigorous sally and push in pursuit of the column. [159]

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast, and close up.

Direction.

The division of grenadiers on the right wing is to face outward to the left, as is that of the left wing to the right. The files which lead the retreat of the several grand divisions are to wheel to the right and left outwards from the centre of the column; that is, those leading files of the first and second grand divisions are to wheel to the left, as are those of the third and fourth grand divisions to the right, in order to lead their respective grand divisions to their proper ground in the line.

Direction.

The whole is to step off. The grenadiers of each wing are to follow their file leaders, and to march in an oblique direction to the ground, which they are to occupy in the line. The file leaders of the first and fourth grand divisions are to march straight forward to their ground, making the line of their direction to stand at right angles with the shaft of the column; and as soon as the last file of each of the above grand divisions has wheeled, in order to follow in line their [l60] respective file leaders, then the file leaders of the second and third grand divisions, are likewise to fall in and follow, leading also their respective divisions, excepting those files which had led the advance; these are not now to wheel and follow, as the others did, but only to move up to their ground in the line, and stand fast.

XV. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

XVI. BATTALION, FACE TO THE FRONT.

Direction.

The whole is to face accordingly, and dress.

XVII. BATTALION, BY RANKS, PREPARE TO FORM THE COLUMN AT THE CENTRE.

Direction.

The whole Battalion is to face inwards, as directed in the second word of Command, excepting the divisions numbered 5 and 6 at the centre, which are to stand fast, and to be the leading divisions of those of their respective wings.

XVIII. Battalion, FORM THE COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

The leading divisions of the column, number 5 and [161] 6, are to march straight forward; then number 4 and 7 are to move on till they come to join each other, when they are to face to the front and follow their leaders; and so on for number 3 and 8, and number 2 and 9; and on the Column being thus formed, which will, in appearance, make four grand divisions following each other, then those several divisions are to move up to each other, and march in a close and compact order; but number l and l0, the grenadiers, are to march in an oblique direction, and join one another at the head of the Column, as directed in the third word of command.

XIX. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See the fourth word of command.

XX. column, ADVANCE TO THE CHARGE.

Direction.

See the fifth word of command.

XXI. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See the sixth word of command.

XXII. COLUMN, FORM TO FRONT-ATTACK.

Direction.

The divisions, numbered 4 and 7, are to face to the right and left outwards from their point of junction, and march directly [162] forward; and when they have gained a distance, equal to the extent of their respective divisions, then they are to face to the front, and join number 5 and 6, on each side, as before in the line. On number 4 and 7 having marched clear from the rear of number 5 and 6, then number 3 and 8 are to move up to that ground, and likewise face to the right and left outwards, and march and draw up in the line, as number 4 and 7 had just done before them; and so on with respect to number 2 and 9, till the line is formed as at first. The grenadiers, number l and l0, are at the same time to face outwards from their centre, and draw up on the flanks of the battalion.

XXIII. BATTALION, MAKE READY AND FIRE.

Direction.

The firing to be observed on this occasion is to be the alternate fire, from centre to flanks, and performed as follows. The grenadiers, who cover the Column, are first to fire alternately, and then to face, as above, to the right and left outwards, and on their march to cover the flanks of the Battalion; they are to go on with their priming and loading, and as soon as they have fired, and in consequence moved off, then the firing of the Battalion is to begin from centre to flanks, each division firing in succession as it draws up.

XXIV. BATTALION, RETREAT BY COLUMN.

Direction.

The grenadiers on the right and left are to face outwards, and reserve their fire, which is not to be given but on the most pressing [163] occasion; then the other divisions are to fire alternately from flanks to centre, and on each having fired, it is immediately to go to the right about, and march forward three paces, and then to face inwards to the centre of the Battalion, and march close in the rear of it, till it comes to join at the centre its correspondent division of the other wing, when both are together to face to the rear, and march straight forward, and then go on with their priming and loading; and when the two centre divisions have likewise fired, they are to go to the right about, and march after the other leading divisions in Column. On each division having fired and retreated as above directed, the grenadiers on each flank are to occupy successively the ground so vacated by the divisions till they themselves come to meet at the centre, when they also are to face to the rear and follow the Column, still not offering to fire, but where the most absolute necessity requires, and then only one division at a time, in order that each may the better sustain the other.

Note. In retreating, the Column is to march in a very close compact body, for the reason given in the eleventh word of command, and should it be then attacked the Column is then to halt, and the divisions are to face outwards from the centre, and keep close back to back, excepting the division which leads the retreat, which is to remain faced to the rear; and as for the rest, see the eleventh word of command.

XXV. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast. [164]

XXVI. COLUMN, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE.

Direction.

Number 2 and 9 being now both together, and constituting the leading division of the Column are each to face to the left and right outwards, and the grenadiers are to do the same.

XXVII. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE. MARCH.

Direction.

The grenadiers are to march as directed in the fourteenth word of command. The 2nd and 9th divisions are to march straight forward, at right angles with the shaft of the Column, to their proper ground in the line. When the 2nd and 9th divisions have marched clear off the ground, upon which they stood, the 3rd and 8th are to move up to that place, and then to face likewise outwards from each other, as the leading divisions had just done before them, and follow. The same evolution is to be performed by the 4th and 7th divisions, but when the 5th and 6th divisions move up to the above ground, they are only to stand fast, and not to face outwards.

XXVIII. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast. [165]

XXIX. BATTALION, FACE TO THE FRONT.

Direction.

The 5th and 6th divisions are to come to the right about, and all the other divisions are to face to the front, and then dress.

XXX. BATTALION, BY FILES LAND RANKS, PREPARE TO FORM THE COLUMN AT THE CENTRE.

Direction.

Previous to this operation, the divisions numbered 4, 5, 6, and 7, are to be subdivided; and then the inward subdivisions of number 5 and 6, on each side of the centre, are to be appointed to lead the other subdivisions of their respective wings, which are to compose that part of the mixed column formed of Ranks. The above matters being adjusted, then the whole Battalion is, on the above word of command being given, to face inwards to the centre, as directed in the second word of command, excepting the leading subdivisions of number 5 and 6, which are to stand fast.

XXXI. BATTALION, FORM THE COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

The inward subdivisions of number 5 and 6 are to march directly forwards, and the other subdivisions are to join each other, as the whole divisions are directed to do in the eighteenth word of [166] command. The grand divisions, number l and 4, are to march by files, and to place themselves in that order close on the outward flanks of the above subdivisions forming by ranks into column, as directed in word of command III, and the divisions of grenadiers are to march and post themselves at the head of the column, as directed in the same word of command.

XXXII. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See word of command IV.

XXXIII. COLUMN, ADVANCE TO THE CHARGE.

Direction.

See word of command V.

XXIX. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See word of command VI.

XXXV. COLUMN, FORM TO FRONT AND FLANK ATTACKS.

Direction.

Those that formed the flank part of the column by files, viz. the first and fourth grand divisions, are to face outwards, as directed [167]

in word of command VII. and then to march straight forwards,

as directed in word of command VIII. The subdivisions that formed the centre part of the column by ranks, are to proceed at the same time as the whole divisions are directed in word of command XXII. The grenadiers are likewise to face to the right and left outwards from their centre, and to march straight forward and post themselves on the two angles, made by the junction of the front face with the two flank faces, for the purposes, either to cover those angles, or to prolong occasionally either face.

XXXVI. BATTALION, MAKE READY AND FIRE.

Direction.

The whole is to fire as one intire line, by firings as will be shown farther on.

XXXVII. BATTALION, CEASE FIRING.

Direction.

The whole is to cease.

XXXVIII. BATTALION, PREPARE TO RETREAT BY COLUMN.

Direction.

The grenadiers and that part of the battalion which had before formed the column by ranks, are to proceed as directed in word of command XXIII. And the two flank faces, or that part which before formed the Column by files, are to go to the right about and close into the [170] shaft of the column, as directed in word of command X, taking care at the same time, gradually to close in as the subdivisions come to fall in and form the centre part of the column; and on the column being thus formed and in compact order, the whole is to stand fast.

XXXIX. COLUMN. RETREAT.

Direction.

See word of command XXIII. and word of command XI.

XL. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

XLI. COLUMN, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE.

Direction.

The grenadiers and the two flank divisions in files, viz. the first and fourth grand divisions, are to proceed as directed in word of command XIII, and the two rear subdivisions which led those of the column in ranks, are to face outwards to their respective wings, as the whole divisions are directed in word of command XXV.

[171]

XLII. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE.

Direction.

The grenadiers and the first and fourth grand divisions are to march and fall in, as directed in word of command XIV, and all the sub divisions at the centre are likewise to fall in to the line, as the divisions are directed in word of command XXVI.

XLIII. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

XLIV. BATTALION, FACE TO THE FRONT.

Direction.

The two sub-divisions on each side of the centre of the battalion, are to come to the right-about; and all the rest of the battalion is to face to the front, and then dress.

XLV. BATTALION, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO FORM THE COLUMN TO THE RIGHT.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness to wheel.

[172]

XLVI. BATTALION, FORM THE COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel a quadrant.

XLVII. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See word of command IV.

XLVIII. COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

The whole is to step off. See Chap. II. Sect. VI. Art. III.

XLIX. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast; and then each rear division is to dress to its proper distance from that which immediately precedes it.

L. COLUMN, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE TO THE RIGHT.

Direction.

Each division is to hold itself in readiness. [173]

LI. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel a quadrant upon the right heel of the front rank man.

The intent of this disposition is, that should the enemy be discovered on the right flank of the Column, that then by wheeling the several divisions to the right, the line may at once be formed, in order to oppose a front to his attack. The only inconvenience attending this operation is, that it reverses the order in which the divisions had before stood in the former line, by making that flank, which was then the interior, to become now the exterior; but this inconvenience is easily obviated, by directing the officers commanding divisions to change their situation at the time of wheeling, and to post themselves on the present exterior flanks of their respective divisions, and then the difference upon the whole will be very immaterial.

LII. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast and dress.

LIII. BATTALION, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO WHEEL BACKWARDS TO THE RIGHT, AND FORM THE COLUMN.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness to wheel.

[174]

LIV. BATTALION, FORM THE COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel backward a quadrant upon the right heel of the front rank man; and while that operation is performing the officers are to return to their former posts.

Note. This operation can be otherwise performed by first making the whole to go to the right about, and then each division to wheel to the left upon the left heel of the rear rank man; and afterwards to come to the right about, but as this operation requires more words of command; and consequently more time in the performance, I have therefore made choice of the former method in preference to the latter, especially where the divisions are not too extensive, as in the present case. But where a battalion is to wheel back by wings, or grand divisions, then this latter method will be found more convenient, and in so much as an extensive rank of men can wheel with greater ease and exactness forward than backward.

LV. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast and dress.

LVI. COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

See word of command XLIV. [175]

LVII. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

See word of command XLV.

LVIII. COLUMN, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE TO THE LEFT.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness to wheel.

LIX. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel a quadrant upon the left heel of the front rank man.

The intent of this disposition is likewise to oppose a front to the enemy, should he appear upon the left flank of the column.

LX. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast and dress.

LXI. BATTALION BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO WHEEL BACKWARDS TO THE LEFT, AND FORM THE COLUMN.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness to wheel. [176]

LXII. BATTALION, FORM THE COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel back on the left heel of the front rank man.

LXIII. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast and dress.

LXIV. COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

The whole is to step off.

LXV. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast and dress.

LXVI. COLUMN, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE TO YOUR VAN.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness to form.

LXVII. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE. MARCH.

Note. Previous to this operation, I shall here suppose your column to be on its march, through a road, pass, or defile, and now to be [177] upon the point of just entering into a plain, or open piece of ground, where the enemy is discovered ready drawn up in order to receive you; on notice of which, you are first to halt and put yourself in order; and then you are carefully to observe what sort of disposition he has made, to the intent of your planning some scheme yourself, which may either counteract him, or at least procure you an advantage over him. To obtain which, one circumstance you will always have in your favour, which is, that he is confined, and you are at liberty to act, for a disposition once made by the enemy, cannot, on any pressing occasion , be soon altered without some difficulty and great hazard, of which a sagacious officer will never lose sight, but endeavour, as opportunity offers, to avail himself.

According then to the above premises, suppose the enemy should be drawn up close to the outlet of the pass at which you are arrived. Now, in this case, it will be best to line that part of the boundary of the plain next you, and from that cover to drive him off with your fire, or oblige him to retire at a greater distance, or you may, by an unexpected sally and rapid push with your column, pierce at once his line, and then take him in flank on both sides, and either disperse or cut him to pieces.

Or suppose you should find him drawn up in a crescent, in order that he may with more advantage throw in his fire from all parts of his line, on the point of the outlet of the pass. On this occasion you are to look for a convenient situation from which you may command him, and take the horns of his crescent in flank; and on your having found a proper place for the purpose, and posted your men, you are then to observe the effect of your fire, and where you find it [178] makes an impression, and throws the enemy into confusion, then is your moment to avail yourself of that happy circumstance, by making a sudden vigorous sally upon him before he can have time to recollect himself, or to remedy his present disorder. Of all the affairs that occur in the service, attacks of this sort are those only by which an officer can have a fortunate opportunity to signalize himself, and advance his reputation, there being nothing more wanting, but a little presence of mind and vigour to follow his blow, and then he will have better than a thousand to one in his favour that he succeeds, for the repulse of those who are near him will ever communicate a panic, and magnify the danger of those who are more remote, and then a handful of men will drive thousands before them--so lost are men when once they come to be disordered.

Or suppose you should observe the enemy to be drawn up in a line at some distance from the outlet of the pass, and there waiting to receive you. You are then first to take notice how his left flank, which will always be opposed to your right, bears from you in front; that is whether it inclines to your right, to your left, or is directly opposite to you; and as that will appear, you are to give, besides the suitable, the following general instructions to your leading division, which is to serve as a guide to the other succeeding divisions how to proceed, and when to draw up. First, that it endeavours before it wheels in order to draw up, to gain as much as it can on the opposite flank of the enemy, so as to out-flank him, to the intent of procuring by that means a superior weight of fire upon him; next, that if this advantage cannot be obtained, that it does at the least draw up opposite to, but never within him, except covered from his fire. [179]

And lastly, that it be careful not to draw up so near to the enemy, as to risk its being cut off, before the other divisions can come up to join and sustain it.

These matters I have premised in order to explain the intent of the following operation, and to shew how to proceed on a similar occasion, I shall now return to the point of exercise, and go on with it.

The first or leading division is to stand fast, and all the other succeeding divisions are to keep marching on. As soon as the second division has closed within two paces of the first, it is to face to the left, and march directly forward, and when it has gained a distance equal to its own extent, it is then to face to the front, and join the first division. On the second division having marched clear from the rear of the first, then the third division is to move up to that ground, and likewise face to the left, and draw up on the left of the second, and so on with respect to all the other divisions till the line is formed.

Note. The above operation points out only the method of forming the line, when the left of the enemy’s line is either opposite to you or inclines towards your left; but when his left stands obliquely to your right, then there are two other methods for forming your line, and your choice of either will depend upon his situation from you. See Chap. II. Sect. V. Art. VI. Suppose for instance that he is drawn up about two hundred yards distant from the outlet of your pass, then in this case, it would be best, without approaching him, to make your divisions wheel to the right, and march in Column along his front, and parallel to him, till your leading division has gained, at the least, an opposite direction to his left; when you are to form your line by making all your divisions to wheel at once to the left, and after which, to advance upon him. or next, should he be drawn up at a greater distance from the outlet of the pass than the above, then you are, in order to save ground and time, to march in Column in an oblique or diagonal direction towards his left; and when your leading division has obtained the length and distance you require, then halt your Column, and order the whole to make so much of a wheel to the left, as to bring the front of each division to be parallel to the line of the enemy, directing withal the succeeding divisions, after they have thus wheeled, to march forward and join each other in line.

LXVIII. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

LXIX. BATTALION, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO RETREAT BY COLUMN

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness. [181]

LXX. BATTALION, RETREAT. MARCH.

Direction.

This operation is nothing more but the reverse of the former; in that, the line was formed from right to left; but in this, the line is reduced to Column from left to right; which to effect, all that is requisite is, that the several divisions do successively go to the right about, and march four paces forward; then face to the left, and march on in the rear of the line till it comes directly into the rear of the first division, when it is to face to the right and march on.

Note. When a Retreat of this kind is to be made on service, it will be more expedited and much better done, by observing the method prescribed in the twenty-third word of command; and in order to make the retreat still more secure, it will be expedient for the two rear divisions, which lead the retreat, to possess themselves immediately of such covers as border on the inlet of the pass, through which the column is to retreat.

LXXI. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast, and dress.

LXXII. COLUMN, TO THE RIGHT ABOUT.

Direction.

The whole is to come to the right about. [182]

LXXIII. COLUMN. MARCH.

Direction.

The whole is to step off.

LXXIV. COLUMN. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast.

LXXV. COLUMN, BY DIVISION, PREPARE TO FORM THE LINE TO THE LEFT.

Direction.

The several divisions are to hold themselves in readiness.

LXXVI. COLUMN, FORM THE LINE. MARCH.

Direction.

Each division is to wheel a quadrant.

LXXVII. BATTALION. HALT.

Direction.

The whole is to stand fast, and dress. [183]

OF PASSING A BRIDGE.

A bridge may, in a great measure, be considered as a defile or pass, through which the column is to march, the near end being the inlet, and the farther end the outlet of that pass; when the near end is fortified, it is with a view as well to prevent a surprise of those posted on the other side, as to keep open ;a communication with that side of the country upon which such works are erected; but when the farther end is fortified; it is only for the purpose of opposing a passage over the Bridge. Hence it appears, that the methods of attack must be as different as the defences are various, comprehending withal the nature of the ground, and the disposition of the enemy; and as there is in either instances a vast variety, therefore it is, that no one method of attack which can be laid down or practised at exercise will prove a sufficient instruction; for this reason then I shall only offer some general rules, which will be found, not only more comprehensive of this branch of discipline, but will serve to enlarge the ideas, and to give a greater scope to the imagination than can be acquired by any contracted system of set form, which seldom answers any other end but to limit the resources, and to impoverish the genius of an officer.

First then, previous to the passing of the bridge, if good intelligence has not been already procured, the ground adjoining to the place must be well reconnoitred [sic]; that is, you are to see under what cover you can to approach; what high or commanding spots there are near it; what is the breadth of the river; what is the nature of the works erected [184] by the enemy; and what is the disposition he has made.

After these observations have been made, and conformable to them you are to frame or plan your own disposition of attack, and to provide yourself with the necessary materials for it. With regard to the disposition which you are to make, you are carefully to allot to each division its separate and distinct service, in order as well to prevent confusion, as that the several divisions may not clash or interfere with each other, and that more men may not occupy any particular place than what are necessary. You are likewise to appoint some parties to annoy and keep the enemy in play, while the others are in the mean time employed in making preparations for the assault. And lastly, you are to assign to other divisions proper posts, from whence they can conveniently and easily sustain and relieve the different attacks, and likewise to cover your retreat in case of necessity.

These points being regulated and settled, I shall now suppose, that the near end of the bridge is covered or defended by either a wall or a retrenchment of any particular form; and that from the bank of the river, as is commonly the case, there is a rising ground up from it; then the first post which you are to occupy, is to be that directly opposite to the passage of the bridge, where you are to cover yourself, either by a trench or some other means, which you may find most convenient for your purpose. This post is so much the more essential, as it not only gives you a command of the enemy’s works, but as it enables you to scour the bridge, and to prevent the approach of succours from the opposite side; which last you will better accomplish, as most bridges do rise at the centre, and of course [185] fall off to each end, consequently the whole of the troops that come over it, will, from the centre, be exposed all the way to your fire, and in so much as one man in the rear must appear above him in his front, and that in proportion as the slope or spring of the bridge happens to be greater or less.

Next you are, in order to expedite the attack, and to distract and strike terror into the enemy, to make two or more assaults at the same time, or to embrace all at once his works on each side, so as to oppose a front to each face of his defences; and for which purpose, you are first to detach to those places small parties to begin the attack, consisting each of a single rank, in order as well to draw off the fire of the enemy, as that the several divisions behind may, in the mean time, come up intire to join them, before those who defend can have time again to load. The intent of detaching single ranks for the above purpose, preferable to two or more ranks drawn up in the rear of each other, is to render the fire of the enemy upon those parties the more uncertain and ineffectual, by having a more open and a less compact body to fire at. On the arrival of your divisions, the men must be directed to behave with great coolness and deliberation, and to fire at none but those immediately opposite to themselves; and if this regulation is well observed, neither great guns or small arms will be able much to annoy them, since the first cannot be worked without the men belonging to them being exposed to your fire through the embrasures, not can the last have effect, since those who defend must appear above the parapet in order to give their fire over it, and then they can be instantly picked off or beat down [186] again under that cover before they can have time to present, or take any fixed aim. Matters being thus disposed, the pioneers are next to follow, being furnished with the proper materials suitable to the nature of the enemy’s works; such as scaling ladders, fascines to fill the ditch, hooks or other implements for pulling down and destroying the works, etc.. Where scaling ladders are requisite, the application of them will be found most successful under cover of the night or a thick fog, as the obscurity under which the attack is then made, not only magnifies the danger, but diffuses terror and confusion among those who defend; but the case is otherwise in clear day light, as then the place where those ladders are planted can be easily seen, to which parties may be sent to oppose the attack; and besides, as the tops of those ladders must necessarily reach higher than the enemy’s works, they likewise can be seen, and can without any difficulty be easily shoved off or overturned with forks, and without those who do it being exposed, at the time, to any considerable degree of danger; but in all those attacks a great deal will depend upon circumstances which must ever govern the conduct of him in command. But as to square or triangular redoubts, having no bastions, and formed only by retrenchments, in the attack of such like works scaling ladders are useless at all times, the other requisites being sufficient; only observing, that if there be artillery in the place which you are to attack, that you advance, if you can, in the direction of the capital line of such works; and then the guns being in the embrasures, made in the sides of the redoubt, and you of course in an oblique direction to them, they cannot therefore be well traversed or brought to bear upon you with any degree of effect, so as either to retard or disable you. [187]

This outwork of the Bridge being thus attacked and carried, the next step is to prepare for the passage of the Bridge itself. To oppose which, I shall again suppose the enemy to have thrown up another work at the farther end, in the form of a crescent or semipolygon, in order that he may the more conveniently increase his weight of fire upon the point of passage or outlet of the Bridge.

The preparations then necessary for this attack are; first, you are carefully to observe what part, and how much of the enemy’s works lie open, or exposed to your view, from your side of the river, and then mark that place from whence you can enfilade or take him in flank across the river, directing those, whom you intend to post there, not to appear, nor to begin their fire till the column is on the point of attack; in order that the enemy may be the less prepared at that juncture to guard against so unexpected a blow, of being taken both in front and flank at the same time.

The disposition which you are further to make, and the materials which you are to provide requisite for this assault, are much the same as those of the last attack, but if high mantelets can be procured, to roll on and cover the men in front as they advance, they will be of infinite service, and will favour much the attack.

Note. I could with to have mantelets made of a particular construction, such as have not only small holes made in them for the men behind occasionally to fire through, but to have hinges at the bottom, that when the braces or arms that keep them upright are let loose, they may fall forward, for the purposes as well of clearing all obstructions to those behind, as of making a convenient bridge to pass over narrow trenches. [188]

But if mantelets cannot be provided, then I would have the leading divisions to sling their muskets over one shoulder, and to carry fascines in their hands advanced before them, and those of such sufficient length as will not only cover effectually the line of life, but will appear at least a foot above their heads, in order to afford those in the rear so much a better shelter; and when those in front come to arrive at the point of attack, they are then to throw down at once their fascines, and handle their arms; and while they are thus severally employed in attacking their respective parts of the defence, the pioneers are to move up and proceed as before directed.

In advancing to this or any other attack, the men are to march briskly on, and for these essential purposes. First, that it serves to animate them the more; and next, that it proves the only means to strike dismay and confusion into the enemy, and to induce him in consequence to throw away his fire, either precipitately or at too great a distance.

Having thus conducted yourself and driven off the enemy, you are instantly to detach parties in pursuit of him, in order to avail yourself of his present disorder, and to prevent his re-assembling again to dislodge you, and could you have prosecuted the same scheme at the other end of the bridge, in consequence of your first attack, it would prove the most sure means of facilitating likewise the success of this last enterprize, and with little or no loss on your side; it being a matter to be depended upon, that those who fly from you will not only effectually cover you from the opposite fire, but will ever excite terror, confusion and disorder, among those to whom they have [189] recourse for protection. This is then the critical moment for which you are to lie in wait, and at which you are as eagerly to grasp, it being from such lucky opportunities as these, that an active sagacious officer can never fail to establish his reputation, and to give credit and honour to himself and to the troops of his prince.

The enemy being dispersed, and proper precautions in consequence taken to maintain the posts so acquired, then the parties which had been left on the other side of the river to favour the passage of the bridge are to be called in, and afterwards dismissed to their respective corps or stations.

But as any attack, however well planned and conducted, is nevertheless liable, from some accident or unforeseen circumstance, to be rendered abortive, prudence then should direct him in command, previously to make a provision for such an event, so as to hinder a repulse from becoming as far as can be a fatal misfortune. To this end, there are two things which he must studiously endeavour to prevent and to guard against. The one is, the disorder and confusion incident to a repulse; and the other is, the pursuit of the enemy, which is seldom or never neglected on the occasion. As to the first, the whole command is previously to be informed, to what place and by what pass the retreat is to be made, and how the several divisions are successively to fall in; but as the order of succession here mentioned is more a form of exercise, than a rule of service, the divisions in this last case are to follow each other, as they shall happen occasionally to be drawn off, and on their arrival at their place of destination or rendezvous, then, and not before, they are to return if need be, to their former order or station [190]. And as to the last, namely, the pursuit of the enemy, care is to be taken that a reserve or sufficient body of men be posted in such advantageous places as may not only command the pass through which the retreat is to be made, but may serve to check and oppose the progress of the enemy, directing such party not upon any account to abandon or give up such posts, before the command is either formed to receive the enemy, or has gained a sufficient distance to secure the retreat.

Now it may be observed, from all the foregoing circumstances, and by a vast variety of others occasioned by the difference of ground or disposition of the enemy, that no one method which can be practised or introduced at exercise for passing a bridge, will prove a sufficient instruction, or even will convey a tolerable idea of this part of the service; and therefore, I am of opinion, that a prescription of some general rules, similar to what I have touched upon, will be found more comprehensive and far better to be depended upon, submitting afterwards all other occurrences and casualties to the genius and judgment of him in command.