EXTRACTS FROM A MILITARY ESSAY, CONTAINING : REFLECTIONS ON THE RAISING, ARMING, CLOATHING and DISCIPLINE OF THE BRITISH INFANTRY and CAVALRY. BY CAMPBELL DALRYMPLE, ESQ; Lieut. Colonel to the King's own Regiment of Dragoons PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY HUMPHREYS, BELL, AND AITKEN. M.DCC,LXXVI. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. Evolutions. THE manual exercise, done, the word of com- mand is given, Rear ranks to close the front, on which officers and serjeants support their arms. March ; the ranks close and the officers take their posts in the ranks. The company should be ordered to march, and to quicken the pace always on the word march being repeated, and to slacken it as the com- manding-officer directs. They should be taught to incline to right or left, a quick pace, without open- ing ranks or files ; and when they incline to the left, should, at the word of command, turn all their heads to the left, that the men may look the way they march. The company should wheel to right or left, or about, upon the march; always observ- ing, that the men are to look to the wheeling hand, and should turn to the right about without stopping; which is a much better method than halting first; then going about; and lastly, marching off again. The commanding-officer should then make them subdivide from the right, which is done by the first division moving briskly forwards; and when clear of the second division, inclining half its front to the left ; at which time, the left or second division in- clines half a front to the right, which makes them cover. The same method is to be followed in sub- A 2 dividing 4 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. dividing from the left. If it should be necessary to subdivide to a smaller front still, the ranks must open a little and glide in between one another, both inclining inwards ; the front, between front and center ; the center, between that and the rear ; and the rear rank in the rear of all. And to instruct the men how to march off from the center, the company ought to be in four divisi- ons ; the one on the right of the center marches first, and inclines to the left ; the left of the center follows, and inclines to the right, till it covers ; the right division, succeeds, and the left becomes the rear. On the word of command, or beating to arms, the company forms us front again by the first and second divisions inclining to the right, and the se- cond and fourth to the left, and all forming upon the second division, which was the head of the co- lumn. How to subdivide upon the march To subdivide upon the march, no part of a batta- lion or line should halt; for suppose the line marching by a battalion in front, and there should be occasion to subdivide, there is room enough, if the battali- ons preserve their proper intervals, for the whole to do it at once, and in that case, it should be done by a brisk movement in the front of each battalion, supposing twenty, which will prevent a halt. It is an established rule, that, in subdividing, the front should always march fast and in doubling up a- gain, always slow ; and it ought also to be a rule, that all evolutions should be done upon the march. These evolutions will be found more useful than forming six deep to the rear, to exercise with open files, and wheeling upon the center; and may take up about half an hour only from the marching off the parade. DALRYMPLE EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 5 DALRYMPLE, CHAP. 11, p. 167. In what the art of manœuvring troops consists.—How far it depends on officers commanding battalions and squadrons.—All precautions to be taken in camp, as in real danger.—March by three columns to the front, and line formed.—In two columns, line formed— Marching in line.—How to obviate obstructions on the march.-The army to fire in line.—March to the front in one column.—March of an army of 72 bat- talions according to this plan.—Line formed.—Orders necessary for the march of an army.—March of a large army to the left.—March of the six battalions in one column to the left.—Its front formed to the left.—Objections to this method.—Obviated.—How to change the position of the line.—Retreating in two columns back to camp. What the art of ma- nœuvering troops con- sists in. THE art of the manœuvre of troops consists solely in distributing motion equally to every part, so far as can be, to enable the whole to form, or change their position, in the most expeditious and best method to answer the purposes required of a battalion, brigade, or line of infantry or cavalry. The conducting of an army by any number of co- lumns to the enemy is the province of the General : But the necessary celerity in forming the line, when the heads of the columns arrive at the ground, de- pending on the method of marching off, and the in- telligence of every particular commanding officer of battalion, or squadron, in executing the plan, it will not be improper to propose one for marching by any number of columns to front, flank, or rear ; and to shew, by a plain and easy method, how the front may be expeditiously changed to oppose any sudden and unforeseen attack on either flank; pre- fuming that a scheme, digested so as to become prac- ticable How far it depends on command- ing officers of battalions or squadrons 6 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. ticable for a battalion in common exercise*, must by giving an idea to all officers of the grand ma- nœuvre, contribute greatly to forward the opera- tions of every General, and every well-concerted plan. And as on some occasions it will be impossible to observe the order of battle laid down on paper, the troops are never to be alarmed on finding themselves displaced ; but, from an opinion of their General, must have a confidence in his disposition, and be al- ways determined to do their duty ; for while their battalions or squadrons are entire, their strength is still the same ; and consequently they are equally capacitated to oppose or offend the enemy, wherever they are posted. All precau- tions to be taken as in real danger. The General having taken every measure necessa- ry for security, as if the were really in danger, by scouring the country, taking out-posts, having out- lying pickets, and giving orders to the horse to pa- trole all night; may then give out orders for the operations of the next day, which ought to be as full and comprehensive, as if given to sixty, instead of six battalions, viz. ORDERS. Bagshot Camp, June 1759. PATROLE ‡. Method of giving or- ders. THE army to be under arms to-morrow, at five in the morning, each man 24 rounds without ball; the camp to be left standing, and the army * By dividing the battalion into so many small ones, two deep, or in a rank entire, as are necessary to exe- cute such plans. ‡ The custom of giving out the word, or patrole, is very old, yet it appears very doubtful, whether of real use or not. The discovery of it to the enemy, by a de- serter, may be attended with fatal consequences to an ar- my ; whereas giving out none would put every one as much, or more, upon their guard ; for then every body of troops would be held suspicious, and treated so far like EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 7 army to march to the front in three columns ; the first, third, and fifth battalions are the heads of the columns : the out-posts to join their respective bat- talions at beating of the assemble. N. B. On this and all like occasions, the men are to carry every thing with them, that they have in the world, ex- cept camp equipage, to inure them to fatigue. March by three co- lumns. At the hour appointed, the General puts himself at the head of the center column, and the whole, taking their motions from him, march off by pla- toons, from the left of the front battalion, and are followed from the right by the rear battalion ; the grenadiers being detached before with the horse, to scour the country, to cover the motions of the ar- my, and the forming of it, when necessary. The officers commanding the flank columns, should be careful to preserve proper intervals from the center, to dress to it, and, as the General is there, to re- peat every signal and take every motion that he gives. Having-marched in this manner, the Gene- ral orders the drums to beat the troop, which, with the army, is always a signal to form battalion, and to arms the line. The battalions form, which will shew the advantage of marching to the front always from the center, as they will now find themselves in such a position as only to move forward ; and the line is formed, by both the battalions which com- posed the column inclining outwards from each other, upon beating to arms. Line form- ed. Marching by two co- lumns. The General calls the Adjutants together (sup- posing every alteration as another day's march) and orders the army to march to the front in two co- lumns, the second and fifth battalions making the heads like enemies, as to put it out of their power to do much hurt it they were so. Every guard or out-post, in that case, would have their respective signs, and words, and every one who could not answer them, should be stop- ped till day-light, and examined as suspicious persons. 8 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. Line formed. heads of the columns. He puts himself at the head of the right column, and both march off from the center of the battalions, followed by the battalion next the center of the army, then that upon the flank, and so alternately, till the flank battalion of all, supposing ten instead of three in the column, closes the line of march. As to the front they should march in, that depends upon the country and roads, which will determine whether it is by platoons, grand divisions, wings, or battalions. Having marched a little way, the grenadiers and horse being always advanced, for the purpose alrea- dy mentioned, orders may be given to form the line. It will be unnecessary on all occasions, espe- cially when the column is large, to beat first the troop, and then to arms, as the battalions will take up their ground, and form the line better by march- ing up to it by platoons, than by first forming the battalion and then moving up; for example, To arms, the head of the columns halt, and the pla- toons or divisions, according as they marched, doub- ling up from the first battalions; the front of the other two, or ten if there were so many, incline outwards, forming the first platoon upon the lead- ing battalions, and at a proper interval from them, the rest of the platoons marching up briskly, and dress to that, which closes the line. The army should now advance and retreat in line, the whole dressing to and keeping intervals from the center. This is most particularly requisite to use troops to, as so much depends upon doing it well; the difficulty lies solely in the execution and want of opportunity, for it can only be obtained by dint of practice : the General should thefore now improve it to the ut- most, as it will be to no purpose to proceed till the army is perfected in that essential part of their duty. Marching in line. How to obviate ob- structionson the march. The army being thus accustomed to march in line, and over all sorts of ground, will learn to over- come all obstacles they may meet with, such as un- passable EXPLANATION of Plate I. A The three columns are formed by marching off from the left of the 1st, 3d, and 5th batta- lions, followed from the right of the 2d, 4th, and 6th battalions. B The first platoons of the first battalions, double up very quick to the right, those of the se- cond to the left, which forms two lines, the rear covering the intervals of the front. C The 1st, 3d, and 5th incline to the right and march very slow; the 2d, 4th, and 6th in- cline to the left, and marching quick, form the line. B EXPLANATION of Plate II. A The columns are formed by marching in pla- toons from the center of the 2d and 5th bat- talions succeeded by the 3d and 4th from their inward flank, and they by the 1st and 6th from their inward flank also. B To Arms. The battalions form upon their front platoons, and the rear battalions inclining outwards, march up till their leading pla- toons dress at a proper interval with them, when they halt, and the other form upon them, which closes the line. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 11 passable hollow ways, pits, &c. where such obstruc- tions affect the whole, it becomes the object of the General to give his orders concerning it; but where it is only partial, prevents a whole or part of a battalion to advance, the troops must double behind those on the right and left by subdividing and in- clining outward from the center; and must imme- diately occupy their former posts, upon the ground opening again. In advancing and retreating, the battalions may go through the platoon and grand division firings, taking their signals from the Gene- ral; and as these marchings will take up time, and of course be apt to fatigue the men, the army should now return to camp; and the officers commanding battalions, may order out all the officers, serjeants, and corporals in the evening, and forming them in- to several small bodies, put them through the evolu- tions practised in the morning, to steady them, and to shew their utility. The army fire in line. The army having marched by two and three co- lumns, will begin the operations of the next day, by marching to the front in one, which will shew the method proposed, in a larger scale, and still suppose, this as but one column, of six, of a large army, who keeping intervals, may all form together with the same facility as this one. March to the front in one column The General having ordered a field-day at five, and sent off a Quarter-master to bespeak provisions, &c. for the army, puts himself at the head of the third battalion, which is to be the head of the co- lumn, and marches off by platoons from the left, detatching the grenadiers and cavalry before; this is followed by the 4th battalion, then by the 2d, 5th, 1st, and the 6th brings up the rear; those on the right marching from the left, and those on the left from the right. B 2 Supposing EXPLANATION of Plate III. A The line of march formed by marching by pla- toons from the left of the 3d followed from the right of the 4th, then from the left of the 2d, right of the 5th, left of the 1st, right of the 6th. B To Arms. The platoons of the 3d double up to the right, and the battalion halt. The 4th battalion inclines to the left till its first platoon dresses to the 3d battalion, then it forms to the left. The 2d and 1st do the same to the right; the 3d, 5th, and 6th to the left, as the 4th, which forms the line; when the grenadiers and horse advance before, take their posts upon the flanks, and opposite to the intervals. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 13 The march of an army of 72 batta- lions accord- ing to this plan. Supposing this one of six columns of an army, composed of 72 battalions; those of the second line covering these six, march off in the same manner, and follow the same rout; see plate 5th. The ca- valry necessary for such an army, is likewise in so many columns as the country will admit of ; the baggage may follow their respective columns, and the artillery being divided, is next the battalions; in this manner the whole march at the appointed hour, and being come to the plain where the army is to form, every column extends itself, on beating to arms in the front in the same manner as the six battalions in question will do, viz. on beating to arms, the first platoon halts, the other seven form up to the right of it; the fourth battalion comes up upon the left, and dressing its first platoon to the third battalion, with a proper interval, form the whole upon that ; the second does the same upon the right, and so on, forming alternately a battalion on the left and right, the column is ranged in line. Line formed Orders ne- cessary for the march of an army. In this manner the order of march of the largest army may be regulated; it being only necessary to observe in the orders, that such brigades form such columns, and march to the front, flanks, or rear, from the right, left, or center. March of a large army to the left. Suppose the army marching to the left with the enemy on the right flank, to take an advantageous post: it cannot be done better, than by making every line a column, as halting and wheeling to the right forms the line of battle: but suppose the enemy, by a forced march, and dexterously concealing their motions, should have seized that post, and taken the army in flank, there follows a necessity to change the position. In that case, the lines of cavalry in the heads of the columns, should form a front to the enemy with all possible celerity, by the first re- giment's forming their three squadrons in front; by the second inclining inward between the lines and filling up that space ; and the third regiment doub- ling EXPLANATION of Plate IV. Seventy-two battalions in two lines, Q. Q. march- ing off in six columns, and forming again on the ground R. R. A. B. First column (counting from the left) con- sisting of two brigades, and march of it. C D Second column, &c. E F Third column, &c. G H Fourth column, &c. I K Fifth column, Sec. L M Sixth column, &c. ACEGIL Where the battalions of second line fall into the line of march. O Where the columns should begin to form the first line. P Where the columns should begin to form the se- cond line. N. B. Each wing of cavalry might march in two columns, and form in like manner. Orders necessary to put this Army in March. The army marches to-morrow.—The general to beat at five, assemblé at six, and march half an hour after.—The infantry forms fix columns, marching from the center of each brigade in both lines, the second following the first.—The cavalry forms four columns, each wing two ;—marching also from the center, and the rear line fellows the front.-The ar- tillery to march in six columns, and to follow those of the infantry; and the baggage to succeed in the rear of their respective corps. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 15 ling to right and left. The fourth, fifth, and sixth, of both lines in the same manner forming a second line behind the first. This forms 36 squadrons in two lines. The first brigades of infantry in both lines form their leading battalions in front; and those in the rear, inclining inwards, fill up the space between tie lines, dressing to the first formed battalions. The second brigades form upon the flanks of these, and the third and fourth compose the second line behind them: the remaining brigades come up upon their flanks, or, if the danger be not pressing, in the center, the infantry already formed, taking ground to right and left for that purpose; but this should only be done, where there is no risque of an immediate attack. The cavalry should now, on the two first brigades being formed divide and post themselves on the wings; and the right wing of all, now the rear of the column, must form the front line upon the right, the rear upon the left, by re- giments covering one another in line, till the whole army is ranged. In this manner an army is formed in the most expeditious method, to either flank; the forming of the cavalry is almost instantaneous, which will cover the infantry. On the first alarm, the Generals leading the columns, send Aid de Camps to order the second brigade of each line from the left, to form upon the flanks of the two first, and the third to form behind the first, and the fourth behind the second ; each brigade, having its respective General, will obey their orders without confusion; and they must form upon the ground al- lotted them, in the most expeditious manner for themselves, without regarding any little jumble in the platoons or battalions; for while every platoon is in its own battalion, and every battalion in its re- spective brigade, with their own officers and Gene- rals, there should be no difference. This 16 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. March in one column to the left. Its front formed to the left. This digression will demonstrate, that large ar- mies may act on the same principles, as the six bat- talions now before us, who having received order to march in one column to the left, wheel by pla- toons to the left, and move on. Marching to the right or left in this manner is very necessary to teach officers to keep their proper intervals. On the drum beating to arms, the first battalion forms by platoons, doubling up on the first, and then halt. The other five incline outwards, 5, 3, 1, to the right, and 4, 2, to the left; and bringing up their front platoons to dress on the first formed battali- ons, they immediately double up the remaining seven, and so form the line. It may be objected to this method, that one mistake of doubling up to the right instead of left will throw the whole into con- fusion ; this must be the consequence of every blun- der, but by every battalion observing to double up the contrary way from that immediately in their front, that objection will be obviated by reducing it to so easy a point as one cannot fail in*. The gre- nadiers and horse should be partly in the front, and partly on the flank, but, on beating to arms, must always take their posts on the flanks, and opposite to the intervals of their respective battalions. Objections to this me- thod. How to change the position of the line. Marching off from the left of the center in one column will bring the six battalions into their former order ; when they may form the line by the same method to the right flank, or change its position, by ordering a flank battalion to make a half wheel to the right or left, and the rest to dress upon it ; in which case they should all march from their cen- ter, form that platoon, dressed to the flank battalion, and then double up the rest upon it. Marching in line and firing a few rounds will be sufficient for this days * Besides, it might be established as a rule, that the uneven numbers are constantly to double up to the right, and the even ones to the left. EXPLANATION of Plate V. A The line of march is formed by the wheeling in platoons to the left, on the beat to arms. B The first battalion forms by the platoons doub- ling up alternately, right, left, and the line is formed by the battalions doing the same, the 5th, 3d, and 1st doubling up to the right, and 4th and second to the left. C EXPLANTION of Plate VI. A Army formed in line of battle; the grenadiers and horses at the head of 2d and 5th batta- lions to cover the retreat. B The line of march begun from center of 2d and 5th battalions, followed by 3d and 4th, and the rear brought up by the 1st and 6th. C Army forming the line again. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 19 day's work ; for though the evolutions are but few in number, yet the flank battalions, having more to do than the center, will now be desirous of returning to camp, which the army may do in two columns, marching from the center, the second and fifth bat- talions making the heads of the columns. Retreating by two co- lumns. These orders being given, all the grenadiers and horse form at the head of their respective columns, to be ready to cover the retreat under a field officer's command. As soon as they are formed in the front of 2d and 5th battalions, they face to the right about, and march off by platoons from the center, the battalions on the right and left wheeling in by platoons to be ready to follow ; the 3d and 4th bat- talions follow the 2d and 5th; and the flank bat- talions bring up the rear, except grenadiers and horse. It is a general rule, whether in advancing or retreating by columns, that the battalions next the center are to take place of those upon the wings, for the sake of closing the line as soon as possible, in all formings. When the front arrives at camp, the front pla- toon halts, and faces to the right about; beat to arms, and the other seven inclining outwards form upon the first, there halt and face. The two bat- talions incline inwards, and forming their first pla- toons, at a proper interval from the inward flanks of the second and fifth battalions, dress the other seven upon that which closes the line: the platoons must all wheel to the right and left about inwards, as they form, to bring them to their proper front. The two rear battalions incline outwards and form upon the flanks, which compleats the line*. Dur- ing C 2 * If such an attack should be made on the rear, as to make it necessary to form the line immediately, the 1st and 6th battalions may wheel by platoons to the right a- bout beat to arms, and form. The 3d and 4th should do the same, incline inwards, and fill up the space be- tween them; and the 2d and 5th form on the flanks. 20 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. ing the retreat the horse should be skirmishing; and while the army is forming, the grenadiers should disperse and keep up a constant fire to cover it: when that is done, the troop calls in both, and the battalions march into their lines. CHAP. XII. Orders for decamping.—The army marches in two co- lumns to the left.—Encamps at Farnham.—Plan of a retreat for a rear-guard.—Advantages of the plan. Rear-guard passes the defile.—Should stop the pursuit of the enemy at the defile.—Utility of such practice.— The line formed again.—A night-march.—Encamp- ment.—Sham fights recommended, and the use of them.—General plan of them.—Entrenchments thrown up, attacked and defended.—Army decamps and re- turns to quarters.—Lord Orrery’s plan for the im- provement of military knowledge.—Of more use, if followed, than foreign authors. Orders of march. THE troops having entered into their encamp- ment, orders are given out. viz. The army to receive two days bread at 12 o'clock; the Quar- ter-masters and Camp-colourmen to parade at the head of the 6th battalion, this afternoon, at 4 o'clock. The army marches to-morrow ; the gene- ral to beat at 3, the assemblé at 4, and march a quarter after, in two columns to the left, the 2d and 6th battalions make the heads of the columns. The bât horses to march at the head of their respec- tive battalions, and the wheel-carriages in the rear of the columns. The grenadiers and horse form the advanced guard. The officer who leads the right column, hav- ing ordered it to be ready to march at the assem- blé, he accordingly begins his march from the cen- ter of the second battalion, followed from the right of EXPLANATION of Plate VII. A Army formed at the head of the encampment. To form the line of march. B March of the right column C March of the left column, D Columns formed abreast of each other, on the march. 22 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. of the third*, and left of the first. By the time appointed for the army to march, the right column will come up abreast with the left ; both then begin their march, keeping constant patroles, when they lose fight of each other, of cavalry between the co- lumns, to know the distance, and that they gain ground regularly; and they must march according to the rout marked out by the Quarter-master, who set out the day before. In this manner the troops may march to either flank, when it is intended to change their front ; but if the enemy be upon their flank, they cannot do it safer, than by making every line a column ; and though a number of co- lumns always renders the march less fatiguing to the troops, yet the consideration of security must take place of their ease and convenience ; though that should be studied, as much as can be, without de- triment to the service. Army en- camps at Farnham. The army marches in this manner to Farnham ; where the Quarter-master, who went before, has bespoke provision, and marked out the ground for encampment. He immediately after receives his or- ders, with his assistants proceeds. When the columns arrive, the army forms, the General re- connoitres, chuses his out-posts, sends out scouting parties of cavalry, and then the army encamps, fur- nishing themselves with heath, as at Bagshot. ORDERS. Farnham. Orders for a field-day. THE army to be under arms to-morrow morn- ing at five, and to march to the front in six columns from the center. Each battalion forms a column; 24 rounds per man without ball. The * This method of marching throws the third battalion a little out of the way, but as we have always time suffi- cient for marching off, it should be done with a view to the forming again, in the most expeditious manner. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 23 The several methods of advancing and retreating by any number of columns, of marching to the right or left flanks, and of changing the front to oppose any sudden and unforeseen attack, having been sufficiently treated of, to give the reader some idea of the movements necessary to be given to an army for all these purposes, we will not, to avoid prolixity, trouble him with further examples, than to suppose the six battalions left as a rear guard, to cover the retreat of an army. Plan for the retreat of a rear guard. Having therefore marched at the appointed hour, and, at some distance from camp, formed the line, we will now suppose them in that perilous situation of bringing up the rear of perhaps a vanquished, at any rate, of a retreating army. The enemy being at hand, and too numerous to resist in line, the best position the rear guard can put itself into, seems to be, marching off in six little columns as the bat- talions advanced out of camp, only the columns ap- proached one to the other within fifty paces, so as mutually to sustain each other; five divisions of cavalry in the intervals of the columns, and one supporting two companies of grenadiers, who are dispersed and skirmishing in the rear, while the other four companies cover the angles of the flank battalions. To form the battalion into this position, the two of the center march off from their centers, the platoons wheeling instead of facing to the right about, as already described, and the two on each flank wheeling by platoons to the right and left in- wards, and marching from the inward flank; all approaching to their proper intervals, and preserv- ing them carefully from the center, with the pla- toons at half distance. If any cavalry should have been added to this body, it may be formed as wings, and disposed of according to the nature of the at- tack and the country. The field-pieces of the bat- talion should be planted in the intervals before the divisions of cavalry, and in this manner, it is pre- sumed, 24 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. Advantage of this posi- tion. sumed, the retreat may be made good. The activi- ty of the columns will soon remove them from the danger of a charge from infantry, if they should not have many defiles to pass: And cavalry will be very cautious of assaulting a corps so perfectly united as this. Whatever hand they turn to, every body is sustained by another and every where a hot and incessant fire to check them, and that, at the same time, supported by a great depth. If the attack should be made on either flank, the flank battalion wheels by sub-platoons, which forms a front six deep: The three rear ranks close up to the front and fire first, then the three front ranks; if the cavalry penetrate this, at fifty yards they meet with fresh resistance. If they fall on the rear of the column, they must sustain the fire of the cannon, the efforts of the divisions of horse, and the resis- tance of eight platoons, behind one another. If they attempt the angles, they will have the oblique fire of the whole battalion, of the grenadiers, of the cannon, and the charge of the cavalry to sustain. In short so many difficulties appear as to give leave almost to ensure a safe and honorable retreat. The greatest danger will be in passing defiles, which will break in upon the disposition, and will be the time when the most vigorous push will be made by the enemy. But before it quits the plain, it is necessa- ry to observe that in case the rear guard should be invested, and cut off from the army, the cannon must be divided; some of the cavalry formed on the wings must be thrown into the intervals; and as much strength as possible, without weakening the other parts, brought to the head of the columns, where a most powerful effort must be made to break through. Baggage may be carried off with safety between the columns, but, on such occasions, troops should be free from all such embarrassments having continued the retreat through the plain, and arrived at a defile, whichleads into an enclosed country, the two EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 25 Rear-guard passes the defile. two columns which lie nearest to, opposite to the defile, should mend their pace, get before the four remaining ones, and enter into it immediately, throw- ing a few platoons into the hedges, at the entrance bordering the plain, to assist in protecting the last to pass, when the first two columns have entered the defile, the two next opposite to it, should follow them, carrying as the others did their field pieces, and proportion of cavalry with them. Having sent off at a gallop the supernumerary cavalry formed up- on the wings, before the infantry, but leaving the grenadiers, which covered the angles, to bring off the rear of the whole, who forming a front with the two that have been all along dispersed in the rear, cover the filing off of the last two columns, and then make good their own retreat under the fire of those platoons posted in the hedges. As the two last co- lumns, in all probability, will not be able to pass a- breast, they should fend off their cannon and divisi- ons of horse, and then file oft by battalion, ac- cording to seniority,* the platoons gaining their pro- per intervals, least it should be necessary, on account of the narrowness of the pass, to subdivide them.‡ Here it would be very proper to make a stand for some time, till cannon and infantry arrive, and are upon the point of forcing the inclosures, when they they ought to be abandoned and the retreat conti- nued. This little check to the pursuit will give time D to Should stop the enemy at the defile, * As the last battalion to pass would be exposed to the whole force of the enemy, by waiting till the other filed off, that inconvenience and danger might be avoided, by the platoons gaining a little ground, the battalions inclin- ing inwards, and the platoons of both battalions locking in with one another, so as to form but one column ; this might be done on the march without difficulty or loss of time, and be much the most easy way of defiling off for the whole. Inclining outwards brings both the battali- ons to their former situation. ‡ It wont be necessary for the platoons to enlarge their intervals to subdivide once. 26 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE, to the army to march off without any risk for the rear guard, for the precautions necessary to be taken before the enemy dare enter the defiles, will allow time sufficient to draw off, form the columns abreast, and to get out of the reach of infantry. Utility of such practice It may be remarked, that besides the advantage in time of necessarily, which must arise from the knowledge that officers acquire by having practiced such manœuvres, and being then able to execute them readily, that a confidence must necessarily be found also among the men, from their knowing themselves in such a position; the strength and ad- vantages of which have already been explained to them by the field officers. This will be guarding in the best manner against those panics and disorders, to which the frailty of the human heart often drives the soldiers, for want of that principle of honour to support them, inherent in the officer as a Gentle- man. Having retreated the six columns abreast, subdi- vided at the defile, and after passing it, fallen into the same order of march, orders may be given for the columns to enlarge their intervals, and then form the line, which may be done at once. The two center battalions form to right and left of the front platoons, wheeling as they form; the two battalions, 1st and 2d, on the right, form upon their left platoon, dress to the center, and wheel each platoon in its center inwards. The left batta- lions, 5th and 6th, do the same, only they form the left of their front platoon. Troop beats. The grenadiers and cavalry take their polls in line, and the battalions march into camp. When orders for being out next day may be given, to practise any of the foregoing evolutions. A night march. But at ten at night the General being supposed to have received some intelligence of consequence, gives orders for the line to strike their tents, and march immediately to the right in two columns; and having EXPLANATION of Plate VIII. A A The six battalions, in columns making their retreat. Platoons at half distance, and co- lumns within fifty paces of each other. Cannon and cavalry in the intervals, grena- diers on the flanks, and skirmishing in the rear, supported by one division of horse. B B Retreat continued, two columns of the six having filed off to enter the defile. C C Four of the six battalions having filed off, the other two. incline to bring themselves oppo- site to the defile. D D Where the columns file off by battalions ac- cording to seniority to enter the defile; or where the platoons of both battalions lock in with each other. D 2 28 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. having provided a proper guide to conduct the line of march, puts himself at the head of the right co- lumn, and gives his orders to the second officer, who leads the left, “ to march so as to pass the de- files, which open into the heath, beyond Godal- ming, upon the Chichester road, an hour, at least, before day-break; when he must, by patroles, dis- cover the head of the right column, and keep pace with it, and form, when it does, upon the left of it, taking possession of those heights called Hind- head, where the Portsmouth and Chichester roads divide, fronting these places, with intention to in- tercept the march of troops to London, and to be there in order of battle at day-break." Sun-rising will discover how well these orders have been exe- cuted, and no time should be lost in remedying any defect in the disposition, as if the enemy were abso- lutely at hand. Encamp in the morn- ing. The Quarter-master who went before, now con- ducts the battalions to their ground, where the whole encamp, making the usual provision of heath, and taking the same precautions. In the afternoon an alarm may be given, and the drums beat to arms ; the General should be there to range the troops, commend the alert, and reprove the dilatory; the army is then dismissed. Sham fights recom mended and the use of them. Another plan of exercise necessary and right to follow is sham fights; which however should be so conducted, as to prevent any ill blood between corps, letting them, by turns, enjoy the honour and praise of victory. Besides the advantage to officers, in re- ducing to reality, in some measure, what they have been practising, it will be found of some consequence to accustom the troops to look men in the face, and to be opposed. At first the men will be found very inattentive, observing more the motions of their ad- versaries, than minding their own; they will have the same hurry of spirits as in real action; and those who have tried both, will find that it is not the dan- ger EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 29 ger of real service which alone produces the confu- sion and disorder incident to it, but a good deal may be imputed to the above causes. General plan for sham fights. It will therefore be very proper that the six batta- lions should be divided, and posted at a mile's dis- tance from each other; that on a signal from the General they should advance to charge one another, each commanding officer making such disposition, as seems best to himself; the General overlooking the whole, should determine the victory, ascribing it to the best, or the best executed disposition, which ever most frequently prevails, but nevertheless should order them alternately to give way to one another, to prevent ill blood, and to accustom both sides to rally and pursue. On these occasions, the horse should leave their lances at home, and great care should be taken to prevent the battalions from shock- ing together. To form plans for these little combats would be passing the narrow bounds prescribed to this essay, therefore we will leave them to the offi- cers commanding; and even recommend, as alrea- dy mentioned, that the Colonels should alternately command, that they may have an opportunity of shewing themselves, by which means an emulation must arise, as in no profession whatever, merit is more respected than among ourselves, and as by that, the General will know how to rate the abilities of the officers. In short, every step should be taken on these occasions, that can improve, or induce the officers to study their profession. Entrench- ments at- tacked and defended. It will likewise be exceeding proper that intrench- ments should be thrown up, troops appointed to de- fend, and others force them. In any of these ex- tensive heaths, situations will be found proper for such works, and where the foil will render the con- struction easy: Any farmer in the neighbourhood for a small sum of money, can supply faggots suffici- ent, if absolutely necessary, to make the entrench- ments hang together, and to fill up the fosse in the assault. 30 EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. assault. On these occasions it will likewise be pro- per to leave the disposition for the attack, to the officers commanding battalions, as a further trial of their genius, and likewise for their defence, that it should be sometimes attempted by fire, and at others by pike, the same men trying both by their different feelings, will easily determine which is their best weapon. Advanta- ges of offi- cers & men. The good which must result to the service from such practice is manifest; the officers will know by experience, though never in action, how to take advantage of an enemy's battalion, and the novelty of the thing being removed from the men, will leave them no other passion to combat with than fear ; and they may assure themselves that death will not be so liberally distributed, now they are freed from the fatal effects, often occasioned by their own hurry of spirits, and inattention to officers com- mands.* Army de- mands and returns to quarters. The troops may continue here or return to Bag- shot or to Farnham, marching always in separate columns, taking their measures so as to pass the de- files, and form in the plain together, and marching sometimes to the right; and when the time is expir- ed, which has been allowed them for military ope- rations, break up camp, and return to their bar- racks or respective quarters. † Plan of Ld. Otrery for the im- provement of military knowledge Roger Earl of Orrery, in the dedication of his treatise on the Art of War, laments that so few tracts are to be met with in the English language, and pro- poses a very good expedient for supplying that de- fect * Many men are killed in action by their own friends, occasioned entirely by these causes. † Besides the advantages of discipline to the troops, the officers coming together, being acquainted and con- versing on the several parts of their business, must be of great service, exclusive of the emulation it must excite in clearing up doubts and confirming opinions, by having had opportunities of reducing their ideas to practice. EXTRACTS FROM DALRYMPLE. 31 fect, viz. by obliging all Generals, who shall, for the future, command either fleets or armies, to pre- sent in writing to the Prince, a particular account of their most important actions; of their observations in war; and the motives which induced them, at any time, to do as they did. He observes that those who could have the perusal of such memorials, would be benefited by them, and that the Generals would be more cautious in their proceedings, from being obliged to account for every action. Following such a plan would undoubtedly con- tribute much to the improvement of military know- ledge in this country, as facts supported by reason and argument must always have more weight, than the best digested production of the imagination.