Fig. 10.

Fig. 11.

27th EXAMPLE.

1 BATTALION AND 1 SQUADRON AGAINST 11 BATTALIONS (6 COMPANIES).

TACTICAL IDEA.

In the case before us the cavalry should only attack compact bodies exceptionally. For instance, if the latter should have been thrown into disorder in consequence of having suddenly suffered severe loss, or if there should be an opportunity of taking them by surprise whilst engaged with our infantry. The squadron which has been attached to our force should rather assume a threatening attitude during the first stages of the combat and its farther prosecution, merely supporting our infantry by sharp, sudden dashes, with the view principally of preventing the enemy from making an overwhelming use of his skirmishers.

It will therefore not be necessary always to keep the squadron united. It is only at the final crisis that the offensive action of cavalry will fully come into play. At that moment its impetuous charges should complete the havoc cansed by the rifles of our infantry, or, if fortune be against us, its repeated sharp sallies should force the pursuing enemy to act with caution, and to hold his troops together. Being thus supported by the squadron, our battalion will have less need of a reserve, may make the most extensive use of skirmishers, and will be able to take the offensive against even a superior force of infantry as long as the latter is unsupported by cavalry.

Our battalion and the squadron have occupied a position, their task being to cover the left flank of a division actually engaged with the enemy. 3 and 4 Cos. in first line; 1 and 2 Cos. with three divisions of cavalry in second line. One division of cavalry disposed as vedettes along the front and left flank of the position at from 1,500 to 1,800 paces distance.

(The infantry in second line have fallen out, and the horsemen have dismounted.)

Dispositions :

First Period.
(Fig. 1.)

The approach of the enemy's infantry is reported by our vedettes.

The Cavalry. Trots forward and joins the vedettes to reconnoitre the

enemy.

Second Period.

(Fig. 2.)

Our vedettes are driven in by the fire of the enemy's skirmishers.
The cavalry reports the appearance of about two companies of the

enemy.

Dispositions: Our commandant determines to let the enemy come close up to our position, to bring a superior fire to bear upon him and then attack him in flank.

3 and 4 Cos. 1 and 2 Cos.

The Cavalry.

Each extends two divisions.

Are posted 300 paces in rear of the right wing of the skirmishers.

Retires slowly, and takes post 200 paces on the right rear of the reserve. Some vedettes are left out on the left flank.

Signal:

Dispositions :

4 Co.

3 Co.

1 and 2 Cos.

Third Period.

(Fig. 3.)

The two companies of the enemy continue their advance, taking the direction of our left flank, and open fire.

Commence Firing.'

Completes its extension.

Throws forward its right offensively.

Conform to the movement of 3 Co., keeping their 300 paces distance.

The Cavalry. Also conforms, retaining its position relatively to the

reserve, and detaching one division to 400 paces on the left rear of the skirmishers.

Fourth Period.
(Fig. 4.)

The enemy no longer tries to push forward, but holds his ground and reinforces his skirmishers.

Dispositions: The commandant resolves to make an attack against the enemy's left wing (his line of retreat). Completes its extension.

3 Co.
1 and 2 Cos.

The Cavalry.

Approach to within 100 paces of the skirmishing line.
Advances on both sides, attacks the enemy in flank,
and then rallies behind the flanks of our infantry.
As soon as the cavalry begins its attack-

Signal: The Whole Advance.'

Fig 3.

Fig. 4

2

3