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DIGEST http://www.mainecav.org/library/steffens.
htm
OF THE
PREPARED BY
AND PRESENTED TO THE FORTY-FOURTH MASS. REGIMENT.
310 WASHINGTON STREET, BOSTON.
1862.
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DIGEST http://www.mainecav.org/library/steffens.htm
Entered according to an act of Congress, in the year 1862 by

Col. FRANCIS L. LEE, of the 44th Mass, Regiment,
in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the District of Massachusetts.
Printed by
J. E.FARWELL AND COMPANY
37 Congress Street, Boston.
1. Formation of the battalion.
2. To open and close ranks.
3. To align a battalion in line of battle.
4. To advance and retreat in line of battle.

5. To halt a battalion marching in line of battle.
6. Oblique march in line of battle.
7. Change of direction and of front.
8. To advance and retreat by the right (left) of companies.
9. To march by the flank and to form orderin line.
10. Passage of obstacles.
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11. To pass a defile in retreat.
12. Loading at will and firing.
I. - COLUMN AT FULL DISTANCE.
1. To form column at full distance.
a. By the wheeling of companies.
b. By breaking to the rear.
2. To pass from column at full distance into line of battle.
a. To the left (right) into line of battle.
b. Successive formations.
On the right (left) into line.
Forward into line.
Into line, faced to the rear.
Into line by two movements.
3. March of a column at full distance.
4. To change direction.
5. To halt a column.
6.The column arriving in front (behind) the line of battle, to prolong it on this line.
7. Countermarch,
8. Form divisions.
II. -COLUMN CLOSED IN MASS.
1. To ploy a battalion in order in line into close column.

a. Close column right in front in rear of the first company
b. Close column right in front, in frontof theeighth company.
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c. Close columnright in front on any other company.
d. Close column left in front in rear of theeighth company.
e. Close column left in front, in front of the first company.
f. Close column left in front on any other company.
g. Close column right or left in front, fromcorresponding column at full distance.

2. Deployment of columns closed in mass.
a. Fromcolumn rightin front deploy on thefirst company.
b. Column right in front to deploy on theeighth company.
c. From column right in frontdeploy on any other company.
d. Deploy column left in front.
3. To march and halt in column closed in mass.
4. To change direction of column closed in mass.
5. Countermarch.
6. To form divisions.
7. To form close column from open column.
8. Columnclosed in mass to take wheelingdistance.
III. -COLUMN AT HALF DISTANCE.
1. To ploy a battalion in column at half distance.
2. Column at half distance to take wheeling distance.
3. Column at half distance into line of battle.
a. To the flank.
b. On the right (left) into line.
c. Forward into line.
d. Faced to the rear.
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4. Column at half distance to close in mass.
5. To march in column at half distance.
6. To change direction in column at half distance.

7. Countermarch.
8. To form divisions.
IV. -COLUMN DOUBLED ON THE CENTRE.
1. To ploy the battalion in order in lineintocolumn doubled on the centre.
2. Deployment of the doublecolumn.
3. To pass a defile in front orrear.
4. To charge in column doubled on the centre.
I. -DISPOSITION TO FORM SQUARE.
1. The battalion is in line of battle
2. The battalion is in column by company.
3. The battalion is in column by division, doubled on the centre.
4. Double file in four ranks.
a.The battalion is in line, and square is to be formed on the right or left flank division,
b. The battalion is in line, and square is to be formed from column doubled on the Centre,
c. The battalion is in columnby company.
d. The battalion is in column by division.
1. The square is to advance.
2. The square is to retreat.
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3. "To reduce the square "
_______
A.-BATTALION IN LINE OF BATTLE.
1. Formation of the battalion.
It is of the utmost importance that every officer, (captain or lieutenant,)

should be accustomed to bring a company into its proper place at any time
and under whatever circumstances. He must therefore be thoroughly
conversant, theoretically and practically, with the School of the Soldier and
the Company. As a militia officer has not very frequently an opportunity of
practising the School of the Battalion, let him take blocks, suppose any
manoeuvre to be executed, give aloud the commands, leading atthe same
time the blocks into their proper places. Here is his company or platoon, there
the place to which he must take it.
4
Very well; one moment's reflection, and then the loud and distinct command.
Hesitation is a blunder which, in active service, may be followed by disaster.
There are cases when the companies should form in line of battle or in
square without regard to their proper places. For instance: the battalion has
been extended in skirmishing line, parts of the companies, of course, in rear
as supports, and the color company as reserve. Large masses of cavalry
appear, and the accidents of the ground do not favor the skirmishers
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sufficiently. The colonel, seeing that there is time enough to form square
before the cavalry can charge, and being sure of the discipline of officers and
men, gives the signal to rally on the reserve. The skirmishers rally at a run on
their supports, which at the same time run on the shortest line towards the
color company, form, without regard even to front and rear rank, in close
order the four faces of the-
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perhaps somewhat irregular - square, charge bayonets, and are ready to
execute the command ”fire." Again: when surprised, it is infinitely more
necessary that the battalion should form line or column without regard to the
numbers of the companies, but ready to resist or to charge, than to wait,
arrange, and be decimated. It will be easily understood that perfect familiarity
with the manoeuvres and their objects, as well as perfect discipline, can only
enable an officer to do his duty before the enemy and 'to set an example to his
men, who, seeing this, will implicitly trust, obey, and follow him.
2.To open and close ranks. No.'s 22 to 29,
HARDEE.
There are many manoeuvres, in minor tactics, which appear to have no direct
connection with any operation on the battlefield; yet they are necessary,
because they produce those habits which must distinguish
the soldier. Thus, "to open and close ranks" is certainly not a manoeuvre to
be executed in active service, but only to allow inspection. No captain should
ever neglect to open ranks after having formed his company, in order to
inspect the men's dress, cleanliness, and arms. The habit of cleanliness of
the body and dress will keep the men healthy in camp and on the marsh the
habit of keeping arms and accoutrements in good order will enable them to be
ready for duty at a moment's notice, and to be relied on in battle. Besides,
certain parts of the drill executed with open ranks can be made more
thoroughly instructive, as the officer can see better each man and his faults
and blunders. Perfect uniformity and precision can best be attained by perfect
drill of each man.
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3. To align a battalion in line of battle.
638 to 651.
The battalion being formed, it must be aligned and remain so as nearly as

possible. Now, the colors are the magnet by which the men of the battalion
are attracted on which they rally. The colors, therefore are placed in the
centre of the line, so that distance and direction can be easily taken from
them.
If the line shows but little bends irregularities, the colonel will order the
captains to correct them, when they first align themselves on the color-guard,
and then their companies. (No. 639.)
But if the irregularities should be great, or if a different alignment should be
necessary, the colonel places first, (no.'s 640, 650 to 651,) the general guides
and color-bearer as directing points in the desired alignment, then the guides
of the companies, and lastly the companies.
The former simple proceeding, will generally be sufficient in active

service. The latter method, however, should be frequently practised, that
officers and men may accustom themselves to march into the line and align
themselves with rapidity and ease, to take the touch of the elbows, and to
turn their eyes, as it were, mechanically in the right direction, that is, towards
the colors.
It is stated in 643 that the captains of the right wing should shift to the left of
their companies before the command "on the centre dress " be given. This is
done because the companies of the right wing have the centre on their left,
must therefore dress to the left; hence the captains must be on the left to
assist the men to align themselves well. It is a general rule that the captains
should be on the right of their companies at the command "right dress" or its
equivalent, and on the left at the command left
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dress" or its equivalent, and return to the right at the command "guides
posts."
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4.To advance and retreat in line of battle.

587 to 622, and 664 to 675.
The colors mark the centre of alignment at a halt and march on the
directing point when the battalion is advancing or retreating. The color-guard
marches six paces in front of the battalion, (both in the advance and retreat,)
that every man can see it and take the step from it. Let it be stated here at
once that the file-closers, (lieutenants and sergeants,) must Pay attention, and
correct in the moment they see men of their company inclined to Press
towards the centre or the flank. They can do a great deal to keep a battalion
steady, and must do so, particularly on a difficult ground, or when the bullets
of the enemy take effect. Let them cause the Wounded to fall to the rear and
the ranks to be closed again; for an effect can only be
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produced on the enemy when the battalions approach in an unwavering line,
ready to charge or to halt and fire. When a battalion of the bravest men comes
up with the enemy like an armed mob, the men will be in each other's way,
and can effect very little or nothing.
Now, to enable a battalion to advance or retreat so that at every halt its line
shall be parallel to the original one from which they started, there are, firstly,
the colors, who march steadily on a line perpendicular to the battalion,
corporal behind the color-bearer following in the trace of the latter; and
secondly, the general guides, who march abreast with the colors. The duties
of color-bearer render it necessary that of that he should be a steady and
practised soldier. It is evident that there must be some means in order to
assist him to march on the perpendicular. The rules laid down in 587 to 590,
606 to 611, aid 666, 667, should be
11.
strictly attended to, and very frequently practised on the parade-ground; yet
on the field of battle it will be sufficient for the colonel to point out to the color-
bearer one or more objects in advance on which to direct his march and in the
direction of which he keeps him. If the color-bearer neglect his duties, (that is,
to march steadily and evenly on the perpendicular,) one wing will be crowded
and the other in very loose order, or rather disorder, which would prevent the
men from using their arms properly at the decisive moment. Even greater
attention must paid when the battalion advances at the double-quick, when it
charges. It is on this occasion that the captains and file-closers should
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particularly exert themselves to keep the men in good order, so that the
muskets may form one unbroken row of steel- the moral effect of this alone is
enormous. When the enemy has been overthrown the men must remain in
their ranks, for now
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follows the volley to finish the work; detachments pursue, not the battalion.
Much more, of course, must the officers exert their energy when the advance
has been unsuccessful, and a retreat in quick time or at the double-quick has
become necessary. If they do not, the retreat will degenerate into a flight, or at
least into straggling, which costs more men and demoralizes more than any
regular, steady retreat, ever so closely followed by the enemy. The retreat
should be executed in such order that, at the halt or facing to the front, the
battalion can be easily reformed and made ready to advance again.
In 693 there is stated a principle, viz: When a battalion in line of battle
advances or retreats, the captains should shift to that flank of their company
which is the farthest from the colors, because they can from this place better
align their company on the centre, and keep it in alignment during the march.
-
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5.To halt a battalion marching in line of battle. 635 to 637, and 676 to 680.
If the battalion halts in order to remain in this position, the color-guard and
the general guides are no longer wanted in front of it. They are therefore
recalled after the command "halt" (637), and they take their original places at
the command "about face." (677.)
6.Oblique march in line of battle. 623

to 634.
The oblique march is used when ground must be gained forward and
sideways at the same time. It requires very steady and thoroughly drilled
troops. The men will easily lose their distances and the off-wing will hang
back, so that at the command "forward march," both the touch towards the
colors and the original alignment are lost. Yet it cannot be avoided for short
distances, e. g., when the intervals of the
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battalions of a brigade advancing in line of battle have been lost, or when a
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more advantageous position must be reached. The captains can do much

towards the proper execution of the diagonal march, by remaining themselves
aligned with the corporals in the centre and with one another, and by keeping
the first file of their company close to their arm. Also the file-closers can ren-
der themselves very useful.
7.Change of direction and of front.652
to 663 ; 681 ; 743 to 775.
Changes of front should be covered by other troops, so that they may not
be observed by the enemy, or at least that they may not be disturbed. They
are executed either because the object of our offensive operations requires it,
or because the enemy appears unexpectedly in our flank.
He who knows the difficulties of wheeling by companies, will not hesitate to
pronounce
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the change of direction and therefore front, explained in 652 to 663, to be not
very easy even under the most favorable circumstances, the less so as the
captains of the two wings must regulate their march and the direction of their
shoulders not by the wheeling flank, but by the centre corporals. Unless a
very small segment of a quadrant is all that may be desired in order to
advance at once in this new direction, it should be avoided. A column
doubled on the centre, however, now much more used for advance and retreat
than line of battle, could very easily perform the change direction at right
angle to the former direction, and then deploy if necessary. This is the more
easily practicable as the manoeuvre should not be executed under the fire of
the enemy.
The same remarks hold for change direction on the rear rank, that is, in
retreat, as explained 681.
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More time is required and greater difficulties are to be conquered by the
method described in 743 to 776, viz: change of front on one of the flank
companies, either at a halt or in march, forward or to the rear. Each captain
must cause the guide to march in the proper direction; he must give the
command 61 right (left) turn, march," as soon as the latter has arrived in rear
of the last file of the preceding company; he must command "halt" when he
has arrived near the alignment, the change of front being forward, and after
the company has passed through the line of markers, the change of front
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being to the rear. The detail of execution is the same as in "forward into line,"
or "into line faced to the rear," from open column. If the change of front
should not amount to a right angle, the captains need not command "turn,"
because the companies will be already nearly parallel to the new alignment.
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It is very rare that a single battalion is compelled to execute this
manoeuvre, more frequently a brigade, &c., and then always protected by
detachments more in front. Much easier and with more safety can the front be
changed in this way: form double column on the centre, wheel and deploy if
necessary. The manoeuvres as described in 743, seq., may be excellent
practice on the parade ground, but are too complicated for militia, and can be
avoided as just stated. Officers who have a decided predilection for
complicated movements of a battalion in line of battle, will find it interesting to
know that one of the European armies has a shorter way to change front. Let
it be desired to change front to the right. Command: "Right wing about face,
battalion right wheel, double-quick, march." The captains of the left wing
command "halt," those of the right wing "right about front," when in the
alignment, marked by the guides, at 90
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degrees to the original position. But even this manoeuvre has been
condemned.
8.To advance and retreat by the right (left)

of companies.105 to 116.
This manoeuvre was formerly much used to take a battalion through

difficult ground, through the intervals of the pieces of a field battery, &c.
At the preparatory command "by right (left) of companies to the front
(rear)," the captains hasten to take their position in front of their companies.
The reason is this: as long as the battalion remains in line, it is one unit, and
all the parts execute the command of the colonel simultaneously. As soon,
however, as the preparatory command indicates a manoeuvre by which the
line, the unit, is to be broken into its subdivisions, the commanders of the
letter assume command under the colonel, become responsible for the proper
execution of the
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19
manoeuvre, and therefore place themselves at once in front of their

subdivision. . other rule must be observed in all manoeuvres, viz: as often as
the captains leave their places in the front rank, they are replaced by the
covering guides, because there must not be any break or gap in line of battle.
At the command "battalion right (left) face," or "by the right (left) flank march,"
the captains hasten to that flank in order to direct the guide and first file. They
then cause the first and second files to break to the front (rear), in order allow
the guide the time, to place himself once in the new direction, perpendicular
the line of battle, before the command "march " be given. Lastly, it is of
paramount importance, that both captains and guides should carefully attend
to the distance of the companies from one another, so that the command "by
companies into line", there should be just room enough for each
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company to form line again. For if the distance be too small, crowding will be
the consequence, and the men cannot use their arms; if the distance be too
large, the companies will be detached instead of forming all one unit; they will
be compelled to oblique at a moment when the greatest steadiness should be
shown, and when the battalion should be under the control of the colonel.
9.To march by the flank and to form order

in line. 722 to 742.
The march by the flank will be necessary when ground must be gained
sideways on the same line on which the battalion is drawn up in line, e.g., to
gain the proper distance from the next battalion on the right or left; to take a
battalion behind a cover, in order to avoid unnecessary exposure, &c. When
the battalion is at a halt, the command is "right (left) face, march," when
marching
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"by the right (left) flank, march." The men who just touched each other's
elbows would now be in rear of each other, with very little interval, and the
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march, executed in this way on uneven and soft ground, would cause the files
to widen out, and produce a dangerous length of the battalion,even
straggling. To prevent this and to allow the men to step freely forward, the
double file has been introduced. It can be now exacted that the files keep
their proper distances. At the command "halt, front," the men must be neither
crowded nor loose; either would require much valuable time to give way
towards the flanks or to close towards the centre. The file-closers must assist
the men, particularly those of the company at the bead.
The flank march is an excellent test of the thoroughness of the drill of the
men, and should therefore be frequently practised in companies. First, the
simple march by the
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flank, followed by "halt, front," on which the ploying and deploying of a
battalion depends; next, flank march from the march in line, and vice versa;
lastly, from marching in line into flank march, at the command, "by the right
flank by file left" (by the left flank by file right), and again "by company into
Line."
In order to march by the flank on a straight line, the guide should be
accustomed to take points of direction, and to march without varying the
length of steps. The captains march by the side of their guides at the head, in
order to regulate the better the proper execution of the movement; they take
their places in the front rank again, as soon as the battalion faces to the front
or rear.
To form a battalion, marching by the flank, on the right (left) by file into line,
implies a change of front to the original rear, a complete counter march, and
will be sometimes of advantage, particularly when exe-
23
cuted by a detached company. Yet it must be properly protected by

skirmishers. It would take a battalion much time to excel this manoeuvre. In
order to assist the companies to form the battalion in the alignment which
the colonel considers the most advantageous, markers are placed for the
direction of the company at the head, and then the guide of each company
aligns on them soon as the last file of the company arrives in the line.
On a march far from the enemy, it necessary to allow the men all possible
convenience, compatible with strict order, and to leave the road open to
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communication, which would be stopped by marching in broad front. This

would be unnecessarily inconvenient both to the troops and to traffic. The
battalion marches in such cases by the flank on both sides of road. The
chapter on Route march 198 seq., contains many very practical rules
24
which do not require any explanation, and which ought to be carefully read.
10. Passage of obstacles. 692 to 708.
As our battles are now often fought on a ground which does not favor the
unobstructed advance in long lines, obstacles would too frequently interfere
with the proper execution of a manoeuvre in line. The frequent breaking of
companies to the rear, and taking them into line of battle again, requires very
well drilled troops, indeed it requires a higher degree of drill than we can
reasonably expect of militia. The troops move better in columns when there
are obstructions, and deploy when the necessity arises.
In executing, however, these manoevures, the captains must keep their
companies very well together, and the guide on the flank of the company next
to that which has broken to the rear, should scrupulously attend to
25
the duty of keeping the space for that company open. The company which
breaks to the rear, and comes forward into line again, must do so at a more
rapid gait, than that in which the battalion moves, in order not to interrupt the
advance of the whole body. If, however, the battalion advances in double
quick, it must resume quick time during the execution of the manoeuvre of the
company, because wild running and utter confusion would be the necessary
consequence, if the battalion should not do so.
11.To pass a defile in retreat. 709to 721.
A defile should be passed as rapidly as possible, even if the enemy does not
press very closely on the marching troops, much more so when he does.
Detachments, skirmishers keep the enemy in check, whilst the battalion forms
the most compact mass possible, when passing the bridge. This mass
however should at the same time allow the
26
reforming of the battalion, without loss of time, on the opposite side of the
defile. Neither of these requisites appears in the method explained in 709,
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seq. It is more in the spirit of modern tactics to employ another method, for
instance that which the reader will find explained in the chapter treating on
Column doubled on the centre.
12. Loading at will and firing. 31 to 63.
Battalions always load at will during an engagement. The captains and
file-closers, all in rear of course during the firing, must do their best to prevent
overhurrying, firing, at random, and loading several cartridges one upon the
other. A regiment should never be brought to the field of battle unless the men
have not only had frequent target practice, but also been drilled thoroughly in
the different firings with blank cartridges. The few dollars spent for powder
and caps, the time and trouble spent in washing and
27
cleaning the muskets, are exceedingly well employed. It is when firing by

battalions, wings, or companies, not to speak of firing by file, that it becomes
very difficult for the colonel to keep young troops in that perfect discipline
which frequently decides the fate of the day, at least the fate of the regiment.
The men are too much inclined to waste the ammunition and to disregard the
word command or the signal; they are carried away by excitement. The fire
by files should be rarely used. The commander loses almost the possibility of
keeping his men well in hand; the never-dissolving column of smoke in front
of his troops prevents him from seeing whether there is still an object worth
the ammunition; the men fire blindly as fast as possible, no cartridge is left
after an incredibly short time, and the regiment is worse than useless in
position. Let the officer never give his command, aim, fire," before he is sure
of
28
being in range. The fire by battalion should be used when several battalions
form the line of battle, or if only one battalion being engaged, the volley is to
be followed by the charge. In general, it is better to fire by ranks. The effect is
good, the smoke is not so dense, there is time for its clearing away, half the
men have their guns loaded, ready for any emergency; the men remain cool,
and hence more inclined to obey the signal which, given when one rank has
fired the volley, can be distinctly understood as: advance, retreat, form square,
etc. The fire by companies is under many circumstances good, yet its moral
and actual effect on the enemy is less decided, and besides, it multiplies the
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commands - it may degenerate into a fire by files.

The fire by the rear rank may be practised as well as manoeuvres by the
rear rank. There is however, this difference, that the latter will be frequently
executed in active
29
service, whilst the former can only happen very rarely, if ever; and only when
the battalion is suddenly attacked in rear. It is evident that before the fire by
the rear rank can be commanded, all file-closers should have an opportunity
of getting out of the way, that is, of forming in the rear, former front, of the
battalion.
B. -BATTALION IN COLUMN.
Infantry forms in column on the march and when charging..
To pass from order in line into column, means to place the fractional parts
of the battalion in rear of one another, so that the line can be easily reformed.
A column is right in front when that subdivision is at the head which in line of
battle formed the right flank.
A column is left in front when that
30
subdivision is at the head which in line of battle formed the left flank.
Whether a column shall be right or left in front, depends on the accidents of
the ground or the position of the troops. If, for instance, a battalion in line
leans with its left flank on the road on which it is to advance, column left in
front would be formed, otherwise right in front. It is therefore necessary that
both formations should be equally familiar to officers and men.
A column is doubled on the centre when the left wino of the battalion forms
column right in front, the right wing column left in front on the two centre
companies.
The extent of front of a column depends on the front of the subdivision into
which the battalion is broken.
Column by sections and column by platoons, on the march beyond the range
of the ene-
31
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my's fire. They are , mostly formed from the column by companies.
Column by companies and column by divisions for manoeuvres on the field
of battle. The broader the front of a column the less will be its depth, and the
easier can it be handled. The column by companies or divisions can be
formed:
Either by breaking to the flank (wheeling),
Or, by breaking to the rear by the right (left) of companies or divisions,
Or, by ploying.
A column is open or at wheeling (full) distance when the subdivisions have
a distance from one another equal to their front. Columns by sections or
platoons are always at wheeling distance.
A column is at half distance when the subdivisions have a distance from
one another equal to half their front.
A column is close or in mass, when the
32
front rank of the following subdivision has a distance of six paces from the
guide of the preceding one. The fractional parts of the battalion in column
must be so arranged that line can be formed with ease, order, and rapidity.
A column at full distance can pass into order in line of battle:
Either by wheeling into line,
And on the right (left) into line, when the enemy is in the flank of the
column;
Or, by forward into line, when the enemy is in front of the column;
Or, into line faced to the rear, when the enemy is in rear of the column.
The three last methods bring the companies successively into line, the first
all at the same time.
A column closed in mass passes into order in line of battle by deploying.
A column doubled on the centre forms line by deploying, which takes but
half the time
33
of the same manoeuvre of a column right or left in front, because both wings
deploy at the same time.
As soon as the colonel's preparatory command indicates that column is to
be formed, the captains take command of their subdivisions and place
themselves therefore in front of them. As long as the battalion remains in
order in column, the chiefs of the subdivisions repeat the commands "halt"
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and "march."
All columns right in front have their guide left, responsible for distance and
alignment, because they are on the pivot flank; for the same reason all
columns left in front have guide right.
I. - COLUMN AT FULL DISTANCE.

The text-book explains how to form column by company, because each
battalion consists of a certain number of companies,
34
each commanded by a captain. Each company is subdivided into platoons

and sections; the column by platoon or section can therefore be formed from
column by company, according to the rules laid down in the School of the
Company. Two companies form a division, commanded by the senior captain;
the column by division can be easily formed from column by company
1. To form columm at full distance.
a. By the wheeling of companies. 68 to 86.
The text-book explains three different cases:
The battalion in line is at a halt and breaks into column which is also to
halt.
The battalion in line is at a halt and breaks into column which is to move in
the new direction.
The battalion in line marches and breaks into column which is to continue
marching.
All are executed according to the same
35
principles. All companies wheel on a fixed pivot, which is explained in the

School the Soldier. When the column is not to move, each captain gives the
commands, takes the guide of the wheeling flank into the alignment of the
pivot man, and dresses his company. Therefore he must be time at the point
where the wheeling flank is to rest. Let him never allow the men pass beyond
the alignment, because it is difficult to cause them to fall back, easy move
them forward. Having seen his company dressed, he commands "front," and
takes his place two paces in front of centre. When the column is to advance
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soon as formed, the guide of the wheeling flank of each company takes at
once the responsibility for distance and alignment, hence the captains remain
in front of their companies; they have to give no command because the
colonel moves the whole battalion at once in the new direction. The
36
guides of the wheeling flank must now be careful not to wheel any further than
necessary to take the company at right angles to its original position in line;
they mark time if the command "forward, march," should not be given in time
in consequence of the unequal number of files of the companies. Let the
guides of the wheeling flank march on an are, which corresponds with the
number of files of their company; they can greatly assist the men and prevent
either crowding- or looseness.
b. By breaking to the rear. 87 to 104.
The method of forming column at full distance by breaking to the rear by

the right (left) of companies is (104) considered to be at once the most prompt
and regular one. It allows, like the preceding method, the formation of column
from a halt and in march, the column can halt or continue marching as
circumstances may dictate.
37
There are two points particularly to be attended to: firstly, that the right (left)
guides, according as the column is to be right or left in front, should march on
a line perpendicular to the battalion in line of battle, and secondly that each
captain should give his command "halt, front " promptly, as soon as the other
guide comes up with him. At the command, "battalion right (left) face," each
captain hastens to the flank indicated, and places himself so that his breast
touches the left (right) arm of the nearest front rank man of the neighboring-
company, and remains there in order that the guide at the command, "halt,
front," or "by the left (right) flank march" should be at once aligned, and that
none of the companies should be compelled to move to any extent to the right
or left to come into the proper alignment. He also causes the two first files to
break to the rear, partly to avoid pushing, at the command
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38
march," and partly to allow the guide to place himself in front of the front rank
man, and to take the direction perpendicular to the original line of battle.
This manoeuvre can only succeed when the men have been thoroughly
trained to execute the march by the flank; for if the files lose distances and the
command "halt, front," or "by the left (right) flank, march," has been given, it
will require much time and moving sideways before the men can take the
touch of the elbows towards the guide, and before they can be ready to
execute promptly another manoeuvre.
2.To pass from column at full distance into
line of battle.
a.To the left (right) into line of battle.
390 to 411.
The column at full distance right in front has its left guides aligned, and the
men have taken the touch of the elbows towards them.
39
The line can therefore be formed, when all companies simultaneously
wheel to the left; the left guides remain in their places, the companies dress
up to them, and the battalion is at once properly aligned. The column at full
distance left in front has its right guides aligned, and can therefore form the
line of battle by right into line wheel; the right guides remain in their places,
the companies dress up to them. This manoeuvre can only succeed when the
guides on the pivot flank keep their exact distances under all circumstances,
and stand or march on the same straight line.
There can be three different cases.
The column is at a halt, and the line of battle is to halt.
The column marches, and the line of battle is to halt.
The column marches, and the line of battle continues marching.
There cannot exist any doubt whether the
40
colonel wants the line to halt or to advance as soon as formed. If he wants the
line of battle to halt, he commands, "left (right) into line wheel;" if he wants the
line to advance, he commands, "by companies left (right) wheel." In the first
case each captain commands "halt, right (left) dress." In the second case the
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colonel commands "forward march, guide centre," when color-guard, general

guides, and captains of the left wing must hasten to their places in line of
battle, when advancing.
When the column is right in front, and the colonel gives the preparatory
command, "left into line wheel," the right guide of the first company hastens
on to the alignment of the left guides; and when the column is left in front, and
the command "right into line wheel" is given, the left guide of the last
company places himself on the alignment of the right guides. This is done
that the captain of the leading company may be able to
41
give his command "halt" before the wheeling flank has arrived on the
alignment. As these guides are but markers on the new line of battle, it is not
necessary that they should take the exact company distance from the next
guide; yet they ought not to be further from him than the length of the
company, otherwise the men could not be dressed up to their arm. It is for
this reason that 391 requires that they should be opposite one of the three
right (left) files of the company. Of course this is only done when the battalion
is to halt; if the march is to be continued, after the line of battle has been
formed, there is no reason for placing markers.
If the column be at a halt or in march, the guides of the pivot flank must not
move during the execution of the command, "left (right) into line wheel." They
mark the line, and can therefore only leave it at the command guides posts."
If, however,
42
the command, "by companies left (right) wheel," be given, the guides must
have passed to the rear before "forward march" is commanded, otherwise
they would be in the way of the battalion advancing in line.
If the column right in front should find the enemy on its right flank, or if the
column left in front should find the enemy on its left flank, and circumstances
compel the colonel toform in line of battle, the shortest way to doso would be
as explained in 407 to 411. As this manoeuvre places every company so,
that the battalion's right flank changes into its left, it is called by inversion.
Although it is certain. that this formation should be used in active service only
in very exceptional cases, yet it offers the means of depriving the enemy of
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part of the advantage of being in the rear of the battalion, and should therefore
be practised, particularly by the officers, using blocks in their study of tactics.
It proves that the bat-
43
talion is not a Chinese puzzle, the parts which can only compose the whole in
or single way; but that it is more like an algebraic compound quantity. He who
understands its nature can unite the parts in variety of ways, among which he
promptly chooses the one which is the most easy under the circumstances.
The original right wing having become now the left wing, the captains must
take their positions accordingly, when the battalion advances, viz: the
captains of the now left wing on the left those of the now right wing on the
right of their respective companies, in order to keep their companies properly
aligned on the centre.
b. Successive formations. 412 to 413.
All successive formations require comparatively much time, and keep the
battalion during their execution in a defenceless state; the battalion executing
them must therefore
44
be protected by accidents of the ground, or by other troops. If in exceptional

cases the colonel should consider it necessary to cormmence firing before the
whole line could be formed, (438 to 439,) each captain must give of course the
command to his company as soon as the next following company has arrived
on the alignment ready to commence firing. It requires, however, very well
drilled troops who, after having come into the line at a double-quick, keep cool
enough to deliver an effective fire. That in this case captains and guides must
keep in the rear is a matter of course. In all successive formations it is better
to halt the battalion until the formation is properly finished, than to hurry parts
of the battalion forward whilst other parts find it difficult to come into line,
particularly on uneven or soft ground. It is a rule (437) to let each company
come to a support arms as soon as the next following one has finished
dressing. This is done
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45
in order not to fatigue the men unnecessarily. An officer should never compel
men to stand or march long with "shouldered arms," but vary it by "support
arms" or "right shoulder shift arms." The more he husbands the strength of
his men, more can he draw upon it in the moment of need. Let the men pay
strict attention the commands of their captains.
The different successive formations are as follows:
On the right (left) into line. 414 to 437.

This manoeuvre will be of advantage when the different battalions arrive on
the flan the line of battle with their reverse flanks on the line on which they are
to form.
Before the colonel gives the command "on the right (left) into line," he must
indicate to the lieutenant-colonel the place where the right (left) flank is to rest,
and also the direction, otherwise the captain of
46
the company at the head of the column can neither know when he has to give
his command, " right (left) turn," nor how to align his company. The column
being right in front, the line is to be formed successively, extending to the left,
bringing each company by "right turn" into the direction, whence the colonel
commands "guide right." The column being left in front, the line is to be
formed successively, extending to the right, bringing each company by "left
turn" into the direction, whence the colonel commands "guide left," to cause
the men to take the touch of the elbows towards the guide indicated, and each
of these guides to cover the ones of the preceding companies. The captains
should give the command "right (left) turn march," just when opposite the left
(right) flank of the preceding company. If they should give the command too
early, crowding and pushing would be the consequence; if too late, the men
would march
47
too loosely and deceive the next following company. The guide particularly
must march, after the turning, so as to arrive close to the last file of the
company already in line. If the guide of the second or third company should
neglect this obligation, he would throw the whole battalion into confusion.
Besides, the file-closers must assist by causing the men to keep the touch of
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the elbows towards the directing guide. At the command "such company,
halt," the left guide when the column is right in front, and the right guide when
the column is left in front, steps forward and aligns himself on the markers to
allow the captain to dress his company in the direction desired. All these
remarks hold also for the corresponding portions of the execution of the other
methods of successive formations.
48
Forward into line. 440 to 465.
If the line is to halt, markers show the position, which the company at the
head of the column is to take. The left guides of the companies when the
column was right in front, the right guides when it was left in front, place
themselves successively in the alignment indicated by the markers. The latter
need not be placed at a great distance from the column, - they may be placed
just in front of the company at the head of the column; but if the new
alignment is in a direction at an angle with that company, the markers must be
placed sufficiently in advance. If the battalion in line is to march, no markers
are necessary, the company at the head of the column itself shows the align-
ment. As soon as the color company has arrived in line, the command "guide
centre " is given, from which moment all the rules must be attended to which
are explained in
49
the chapter on advancing in line of battle. It is necessary that the company at

the head of the column should march very steadily in quick time on a line
perpendicular to its base, (the right guide must attend to this,) otherwise the
other companies would be thrown into confusion.
The success of passing into line of battle, by "forward into line," depends in
a great measure on the steadiness and circumspection of the directing guides
of the companies.
Into line, faced to the rear.467 to 484.
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This is one of the artificial manoeuvres which are only interesting as they
show the great flexibility of a battalion. Volunteer and militia regiments should
only attend to those simple formations which our modern tactics require, and
all the time they can afford for military exercises in time of peace, or after
having been suddenly organized for
50
the war, will be required to make them efficient in them.

The company at the head of the column executes a complete
countermarch, so that its new position will be in rear of the markers. In this
manoeuvre, as in the preceding one, this company does all it has to do on the
preliminary command of the colonel, in order to facilitate the manoeuvres of
the other companies. As each company must get into the rear of the
alignment, so that at "halt, front," nothing else will be required, but to dress it;
therefore the guides must successively hasten on to the alignment, to show
the point near which their respective companies have to cross the line; if the
manoeuvre be executed at the double-quick, all the guides must hasten at
once on the alignment, because there is very little time to be spared, and their
failing to be at their proper places would very likely cause the companies to
cross the line, where they ought not, producing great confusion.
51
Into line by two movements. 485 to 500.
This manoeuvre is a combination of two the preceding ones, more

complicated therefore than either. Let the student draw chalk line
representing the line of battle, on which the battalion is to form itself, let him
represent the different companies by blocks and execute the manoeuvres, as
described the text-book.
3.March of a column at full distance.161
to 173, and 193 to 197.
The directing guide of the company at the head of the column, must take
points at distance, and in a line at right angles to the company. He must
march straight towards them, because otherwise crowding or looseness of the
files in his company, and therefore in all the following ones would be the
necessary consequence, rendering it absolutely impossible to advance or
retreat with any-
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52
thing like steadiness. The same rule must be observed when the column
marches by the rear rank, because it is naturally of importance that, after
having faced to the front again, perfect order should prevail, and the column
be ready to execute any manoeuvre deemed necessary. Each of the other
guides should attend to two points: firstly, to follow strictly in the trace of the
one preceding him; and secondly, to keep the exact distance for his company,
a neglect of either would prevent the prompt and orderly formation of the line.
If the colonel by command, or caution, causes the leading directing guide to
change the direction of his march, the others must follow only by degrees,
and one after the other; their suddenly changing the direction, would produce
violent fluctuations and disorder.
The battalion will mostly march in column at full, at least at half distance, if
not in column doubled on the centre, previous to
53
engaging the enemy. It therefore necessary that the battalion should
frequently practice the movements in column; advance, retreat, flank march,
and passing from one to the other without halt. The captains are during the
advance in front, during the retreat in rear of the front rank of their companies,
and during the flank march at the flank, carefully preserving the distance from
the next company. With these simple movements combine, as indicated 196,
diminishing the front by platoon, and increasing the front by division, and vice
versa. Let the officers never allow the files to increase their distances, let
each company of the column, that is, each fraction of the unit, remain a
compact body during these movements, because, all the advantages which
the column offers for movements near the enemy, and the possibility of
forming line with rapidity and steadiness, depend on this compactness of the
companies in themselves.
54
4. To change direction. 231 to 238.
Each captain commands his company as soon as it has arrived at the
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wheeling point. Firstly, he takes the guide to the wheeling flank by "guide
right (left)" secondly, "left (right) wheel, march;" thirdly, "forward, march;"
fourthly, he retakes the guide to the side where he was before wheeling, by
"guide left (right)." The marker is placed so as to be touched by the wheeling
guides, because the touch of the elbows of the men is in that direction, the
wheel being executed in inarching. Each guide of the pivot flank must begin
his motion exactly at the point where the preceding guide had done so, even if
the captain should fail to give his command at the proper moment. If he
should begin too early, his distance, (at the command "forward, march,")
would be too small ; if too late, it would be too large; a fault which must
necessarily increase at a
55
great ratio with regard to the companies following his. If he should see that by
inadvertence or in consequence of the difficulties of the ground his distance
from the preceding guide has become a little small or too large, let him not
correct at once, but by degrees; otherwise he would throw his fault on the
following guides, would most likely cause them also to hurry forward or to
stop short, as the case might be, and thus produce great fluctuations of the
whole column.
5. To halt a column. 239 to 246.
The battalion is brought to a halt by the command of the colonel. Before

wheeling into line or executing any manoeuvre, the colonel should convince
himself that the guides cover each other, and that they preserved the requisite
company distances. If he should find some irregularities, he will correct them
by causing the respective guides
56
to move to the point where they ought to be. If he should find greater
irregularities, he will give the command "guides cover," after having placed
the first and second guide on the direction; the guides being all on this
direction, he will cause the men to take the touch of the elbow towards them
by the command, "left (right) dress," when each captain moves to that flank
and dresses his company. As it requires some practice to attend to direction
and distance during the march of a column in cadenced step or in route step,
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and as it is of great importance that officers and guides should be accustomed

to execute all these manoeuvres without fault, they ought to make frequently a
part of the battalion drill.
57
6.The column arriving in front (behind) the line of battle, to prolong it on this
line.
174 to 192 and 247 to 251; 485 to 500.
The different rules laid down in these paragraphs are excellent for the drill on
the parade-ground, and require great attention of captains and guides. On the
battle-field the battalions will frequently form line of battle, each being in
column doubled on the centre, not in line, particularly when offensive
movements are intended. Besides, we do not fight our battles always on
ground which favors the formation of the battalions in line.
Officers should study this chapter before they go to the parade-ground. Let
them draw a chalk line on the table, representing the line of battle, and let
them execute the whole manoeuvres with blocks. It will be seen that it
contains no new feature, but that it consists of march and chance of direction
of a column, and lastly of the formation of the line.
58
The intended line of battle has previously been marked by officers and
sergeants or by any other means. The column may either arrive in front of
this line or behind it. When the column arrives in front of the line there is
placed,
Firstly, a marker at that point on it where the column has to cross it, as a
point of direction of the guide of the pivot flank of the leading company.
Secondly, a marker is placed so that the guides on the wheeling flank of the
companies can direct their march on him.
The marker first mentioned will be on the left extremity of the line when the
column is right in front, and on the right extremity when the column is left in
front.
When the column arrives behind the line there is placed,
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Firstly, one marker at a point where the companies must wheel in order to
remain four paces behind the line.
59
Secondly, one marker on the line at a point so as to bebreast of the leading

company when it has completed the wheeling.
These markers will be on the right extremity of the line when the column is
left in front, and on its left when the column is right in front.
If, however, the column should arrive the right of the line when right in
front, the line of battle could also be formed, though not by wheeling into line,
but one of the successive formations.
The execution of the manoeuvre consists of the following parts:
The column arrives in front of the line, -
1.Arrived near the line, the captain the leading company takes the guide the
wheeling flank; this guide directs march on the marker.
2.When this guide has arrived abreast of this marker, the captain wheels his
company.
60
3.The captain commands "forward march," retakes the guide to the flank
nearest to the line ; the general guide marches on the line abreast with the
company.
4.Each captain executes the same manoeuvre.
5.The color-bearer and the second general guide begin to move on the line,
covering the first general guide and the markers on it as soon as their
respective companies have completed the wheeling.
6.The guides of the flank nearest to the line follow the trace of the first lead-
ing guide, so that they march on a line parallel to the line of battle, about four
paces behind it.
Arrived at the place where the battalion is to pass into order in line, the
colonel commands "halt," takes, (247, seg.,) the guides on the line, aligns
them, assisted by the lieutenant-colonel, on the general guides and color-
bearer; commands then "left
61
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(right) dress," where the companies take the touch of the elbows towards their
respective guides now on the line, and lastly the colonel commands, "left
(right) into line wheel."
The column arrives behind the line.
The execution is the same as the one above mentioned, with this
difference, that the column has not to cross the line, but that it prolongs itself
at once four paces in rear of it.
There may happen a more complicated manoeuvre by which to pass from
column into line of battle. The last battalion arrives in front of the line; a
number of its companies have crossed it, have wheeled, and are marching
parallel to the line in rear of it; but there is not space enough to take the whole
battalion into this direction without coming too near to the preceding bat-
talion. In this case those companies which have arrived behind the line wheel
into line,
62
whilst those companies which are still in front of the line come into the
alignment by ”into line faced to the rear." (See 485, seg.) If the column arrives
in rear under similar circumstances, those companies which are already
prolonging themselves wheel into line, and the rear companies come by "for-
ward into line " on the line of battle.
7.Countermarch, 351; and School of the
Company, 334 to 342.
Countermarch means to change a column right in front into a column left in
front, and vice versa. It is sometimes of advantage as a preliminary manouvre
when changes of front or formation of line to the originalrear should be
necessary.
If the column be right in front countermarch is executed by "right face by
file left;" if left in front by "left face by file right." The guides remain in their
places, but face about, to mark the new front, the
63
points where each file must wheel and behind which the first and last files
have to place themselves, at the command, "halt, front." Each captain
conducts the file at the head his company, to be sure that the men who
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properly just round the one guide and arrive in rear of the other. The company
being not always of the same number files, each captain commands "halt,
front, just when the file which he leads arrives rear of the guide.
After having dressed their companies the captains take again their position
in front, and the guides shift places.
The right guides being on the alignment with left in front, and the left guides
with right in front, each captain leads his company to and dresses it on that
guide which is on the alignment already.
64
8. Form divisions. 380 to 388.
The column by divisions will have the same depth as that by companies
less one company, and will be used when a broader front is desirable, or when
square must be formed. The column by company can be at a halt or in
march. When the column is at a halt and right in front, the even companies
place themselves on the left of the odd companies; when the column is at a
halt and left in front, the odd companies place themselves on the right of the
even companies. This is done in the following way: the even companies in
column right in front march by the left flank, and the odd companies, in
column left in front, march by the right flank, (commanded by their captains,)
a distance equal to their own length of front; then they halt and face to the
front, after which they march up to the alignment marked by the two guides of
the
65
companies which stood fast and their own guides farthest from those
companies. If the divisions are to be formed in double-quick, no time must be
lost by unnecessary commands; hence they march by the flank a distance
equal to their own length of front, face at once to the front at the command "by
the right (left) flank, march," and come thus into the alignment.
If, however, the column be marching, (right in front), and the command ”form
divisions" be (given, the odd companies march right oblique their full length,
in order to unmask the front of the even companies, which meanwhile
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continue their front march; having unmasked them they mark time, to allow
the latter to come up with them, face to the front, and the divisions thus
formed advance at the command of the senior captains "forward, march." If
the column be left in front, the even companies oblique to the left, to unmask
the front
66
of the odd companies. It is a general rule that if subdivisions of a battalion

must move forward whilst the whole battalion marches in double-quick time,
those subdivisions who have not to change the place in which they are,
should resume quick time, to give the other ones the opportunity to come up
with them in good order without being compelled to run. It is for the same
reason that when the battalion marches in quick time on similar occasions,
those subdivisions which have not to change their places mark time.
II. -COLUMN CLOSED IN MASS.
Close column is used in attack and for many manoeuvres on the battle-
field, when the column at half distance doubled on the centre would not be
practicable. The column has less depth than the one at full distance, covers
therefore a smaller area; it can be more easily moved in difficult ground
67
and covered, has much momentum in attack because it is compact; and lastly,
the line of battle can be formed in shorter time from it than from open column.
1.To ploy a battalion in order in line into

close column.
A column right in front can be formed from the line of battle in the follow
way:
a.All companies place themselves rear of the first company; the most usual
method.
b.All companies place themselves in front of the eighth company, if there
should be room in rear of the first, or if the road, which the column has to
advance, is near the left flank.
c.The companies on the right of any company named, place themselves in
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front, those on the left of that company place themselves in rear of the said
company, if
68
there be not much room either in front or rear, or if said company stands a
cheval on the road on which the column has to advance.
In the same way and for the same reasons a column left in front can be
formed:
a.All companies place themselves in rear of the eighth company.
b.All companies place themselves in front of the first company.
c.The companies on the right of any company named, place themselves in
rear, and those on the left of that company place themselves in front of said
company.
If a battalion in line of battle should be desired to ploy whilst it advances,
the companies can only form in rear of one another (148); the leading
company marches in quick time whilst the ploying companies execute the
manoeuvre in double-quick, and then resume quick time.
When a company takes its position in
69
close column, that is, six paces in front ear of the guides of the preceding one,
the file-closers must close up one pace, in order to avoid unnecessary
crowding, and therefore disorder.
a.Close column right in front in rear of the first company. 117 to 130, and 149
to 158.
In order to place themselves in rear the first company, all the companies,
except the first, must face to the right; the first and second files break to the
rear, that they may be able to move freely forward at the command "march."
The right guides being responsible for the proper execution of the manoeuvre,
place themselves in front the first file, march first to the rear to gain six paces
distance from the front rank of the preceding company, file then to the left and
march in a direction parallel to the first company.
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The captain of the first company takes the guide left at the beginning of the
manoeuvre, because the column is to be right in front; the captains of the
ploying companies stop as soon as they have arrived in the alignment of the
left guides of the preceding companies and let their companies pass by them,
because each left guide must at once cover the other left guides, and because
the captain has to dress his company from the left, parallel to the first
company.
If the manoeuvre should be executed whilst the line advances, the first
company takes the guide left and advances steadily in quick time; the other
companies march in double-quick by the right flank into the rear of the first
company, face to the left, close up, and resume the quick step; the left guides
march at once in the trace of the one of the first company. Let the captains
give their commands aloud and very distinctly, and let the file-closers exert
themselves to prevent the files from widening out.
71
b.Close column right in front, in front of the

eighth company.141 to 142.
The eighth company takes the guide left and remains in its place. All the
other companies face to the left; they break two files to the front, because they
are to place themselves six paces in front of the eighth company; the left
guides are the leaders, and the captains march on their right. As soon as they
arrive in the alignment of the left guide of the eighth company, the captains
command "halt, front," whilst the left guides face to the rear to be aligned by
the lieutenant-colonel. They remain faced to the rear, until the colonel
commands
"guides about face," because up to that time they are liable to be corrected in
their position. Each captain must be careful to lead his company so as to
keep the distance of six paces from the company on his left, because the
distance cannot well be cor-
72
rected after "halt, front" is commanded, without causing confusion in the
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following companies.
c. Close column right in front on any other

company. 143 to 147.
This is a combination of the two preceding manoeuvres. Let it be

necessary to form column right in front on the fifth company. The captain of
said company commands "guide left." The first, second, third, and fourth
companies form in front of the fifth and sixth, seventh and eighth in its rear.
d.Close column left in front in rear of the

eighth company. 141 to 142.
The eighth company takes the guide right, because the column is to be left
in front. All other companies face to the left and break two files to the rear,
because they must form in rear of each other, behind the
73
eighth. The left guides are responsible for the proper march and distance,
they being leaders. The captains halt as soon as they have arrived in the
alignment of the right guide of the eighth, allow their companies to march past
them, halt, and dress them. If the manoeuvre should be executed in march the
same rules must be observed as in the corresponding formation right in front,
with this exception, that what is said there of the left guides holds here for the
right guides.
e.Close column left in front, in front of the
first company. 132 -to 140.
The first company remains in its place and takes the guide right, because
the column is to left in front. All other companies face to the right and break
two files to the front, because they must take their place in front of the first
company. The right guides lead, on their left march the captains, who are
responsible for distance and parallel
74
march. At the command "halt, front," the right guides face to the rear and
remain in this position until the command "guides, about face " is given,
because they will be assured in their alignment by the lieutenant-colonel.
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f. Close column left in front on any other company.
Let the column be formed on the sixth company. The sixth company remains
in its place and takes guide right. The seventh and eighth companies place
themselves in front of said company; the fifth, fourth, third, second, and first in
its rear. Each captain has to attend to the rules, which regulate the formation
of a column left in front, respectively in front of the first and in rear of the
eighth company.
75
g.Close column right or left in front, from

corresponding column at full distance.
See later.
2. Deployment of columns closed in mass.
The line could be formed in the same way as from open column, provided
the companies have first taken wheeling distance. But this would absorb
much time unnecessarily and therefore a simpler and shorter method has
been devised, viz: the deployment. Deployments are always on the
prolongation of the head of column or parallel to it. If the enemy should show
himself on the flank of the column, the colonel will first change front of the
column and then deploy it; a if the enemy should show himself in the rear of
the column, the colonel would cause the latter to execute the countermarch
and then deploy it.
76
Corresponding with the formation of the column the deployment can be
executed,
a.On the company at the head of the column.
b.On the company at the rear of the column.
c.On any other company, according to the peculiarity of the ground or the
position of the object on which the line is to advance, or at which it is to open
fire.
In all cases two markers are placed in front of the company at the head of the
column and the general guide of that flank towards which the deployment is
executed, in their alignment, in order to enable the lieutenant-colonel to align
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the guides as they successively place themselves on the line.
77
a. From column right in front deploy on the

first company. 513 to 539.
Let the column be at a halt. The first company dresses up to the markers to
facilitate the alignment of the other companies, as they arrive in rear of the
line. All other companies face to the left; the left guides lead, taking distance
and direction from the right, the captains march on their right, parallel to the
line marked, because if the companies arrive behind the line in a slanting
direction, it would be more difficult to dress. Every captain halts as soon as
he has arrived opposite the left of the preceding company; he lets his own
company file past, in order to give his command "halt, front," as soon as the
last file comes up with him; if he should command too late, or too early, he
could not march his company squarely to its place in line, but in a slanting
direction, throwing the following companies into disorder. After
78
"halt, front," the companies close their ranks rapidly, that the following
company may not be deceived. They march then up to the line, the captains
commanding, "forward, guide right, march." The guide is right, because the
first company, the directing one, is on their right. Lastly, they dress as soon
as the left guide has been assured in the alignment. The second company
being very near the line, need only ”halt, front, right dress."
The principles are the same when the column deploys whilst it is
marching.. Yet time is to be saved. Therefore not the column, but only the
first company, must halt, as soon as the deployment commences. The other
companies march, first by the left flank, and then by the right flank, in order to
take their respective places in line.
If it is necessary to deploy without interrupting the advance of the column,
then the leading company must continue steadily its
79
march in quick time, whilst the other companies deploy in double-quick. If
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ever the colonel should bring his battalion into line this way, he must do so
before he enters into actual conflict with the enemy. For it stands to reason,
that violent fluctuations can scarcely be avoided, and that no effect can be
produced during the deployment, and immediately after it. It is better to spend
a little time to enter in proper order and steadily into the contest, than to hurry
up in disorder. The companies dress to the right until the colonel commands
"guide centre," when colors, general guides, and captains of the left wing take
their places formerly pointed out.
b.Column right in front to deploy on the
eighth company. 540 to 562.
The column being at a halt, the eighth company takes the guide left,
because the touch of the elbows is to be taken towards
80
it by all companies. The other companies face to the right, the right guides
lead and take direction and distance from the left, so that the companies
marching by the flank remain a column in mass from the rear of which one
company after the other detaches itself, as in the preceding manoeuvre the
same is done from the front. As the companies successively come from the
rear into the line of battle, great care must be taken, that the men march by the
flank with accuracy, and that the captains give their command not a moment
too early or too late, otherwise the companies would either run into each
other, or large gaps in the line would interrupt its continuity.
To execute this manoeuvre without interrupting the advance, must increase
the difficulties, yet the principles are exactly the same as those mentioned
before.
81
c.From column right in front deploy on any

other company. 563 to 570.
Let it be the third company on which the column is to deploy. The markers
are placed in front of the first company. The third company takes guide left
and marches up the markers as soon as it is unmasked. The first and second
company deploy to the right, the fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth to the
left, according to the principles stated in respectively b. and a.
d. Deploy column left in front.571.
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The column left in front can either deploy on the eighth company, when the
column develops itself towards the right; or on the first company, being the
rearmost, when the column develops itself towards the left, one company after
the other detaching itself from the rear of the column, and marching into line
as soon as unmasked; or lastly, it can
82
deploy on any other company to the right and left. There is no particular
difficulty in executing these manoeuvres; they correspond with the
deployments of the column right in front.
3.To march and halt in column closed in

mass. 281to 286.
The marching of a column closed in mass, is executed by the same means

as that of column at full distance.
4.To change direction of column closed in
mass.288to 321.
All wheelings must be so executed that the men take the touch of the
elbows towards the marching flank. The whole column being one mass, each
company cannot wheel independently at the pivot point; there is no room for
doing so. Hence the pivot man of the company at the head of the column has
to regulate his motion according
83
to that of the marching flank, and must not shorten his steps so much as in
column at full distance, when describing an arc, in order to clear the centre of
this are, which lies without him. In this way only the companies can keep
their distances. Of course .the guides must see to this and conform to the
movement of the head of the column, whence they must march somewhat
obliquely. It is clear that not all the companies can have completed the wheel
when the head of the column has, yet the guides must follow, as soon as
possible, the trace of the leading guide after the command " forward march."
The captains do not give any commands, but only the colonel, because the
whole battalion forms one mass. As soon as the command "forward march"
is given, the guide will again be taken to the proper flank, because after the
completion of the wheel the original order must be restored.
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84
The method of changing direction from a halt is described in 306 to 321.

First, the new front is marked, which must be wholly beyond the original front,
otherwise the manoeuvre could not be executed. At the command "battalion
right (left) face, march," each captain leads the flank of his company, so that
the latter will march parallel to the markers, allows it to pass by him, and then
commands, "halt, front, left (right) dress."
5. Countermarch. 352 to 363.
If the companies were to move all in the same direction, as in open column,
they would not find room enough, and would be thrown into disorder; but if
the companies move in opposite directions, the manoeuvre will be easy.
If the column be right in front, and must execute the countermarch, the odd
companies face to the right, the even ones to the left;
85
the former file left, the latter file right around the guide, in order to get behind
the line, marked by the two guides who had faced about into the new front.
The new column being left in front, the guide must be right, whence the
captains must move the right of their companies, from which point they dress
them up to the guides, after having commanded "halt, front."
If the column be left in front and must execute countermarch, it will be done
in the same way, except that the captains must place themselves on the left of
their companies after "halt front," and dress them to the guides, because the
column is now right in front.
6. To form divisions.364to 379.

If the column be by company and a larger front become necessary, the
column by division will be formed. The even companies, if the column be
right in front, the odd
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86
companies if the column be left in front, deploy, whether the column be at a

halt or in march. It is therefore but necessary to direct the attention of the
student to that chapter, where he will see that the captains of the deploying
company need only command 11 halt, front, left (right) dress."
7.To form close column from open column.

232 to 280.
An open column can form mass either on the foremost or on the rearmost
company, as circumstances may dictate. In either case the column can be at
a halt or marching.
If the column is to close in mass on the foremost company at a halt, each
captain brings up his company to a distance of six paces, commands "halt,"
and dresses it left or right, according as the column is right or left in front.
The guides of the directing flank cover one another. If the column be
marching, the company at the head of the
87
column halts, as soon as the manoeuvre begins. But if the column be

marching in double-quick, the company at the head will march in quick time
from the moment the manoeuvre begins; the other companies continue to
march in double-quick till they arrive successively at six paces distance from
the preceding one, when they take the step of the latter. Thus much time will
be saved. If the column is to be closed in mass on the rearmost company, all
companies except the last face to the rear. If each captain should remain in
rear of the front rank, he would not be able to see when his company had
arrived at six paces from the one in front of him. He places himself, therefore,
outside the column on, the directing flank, and remains there until be has
commanded "halt, about face," and dressed his company. The colonel com-
mands "guide right when the column is right in front, and "guide left" when it
is
88
left in front, because the companies march by the rear rank. The guides
remain faced to the rear until the command "guides about face " is given, in
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order to be aligned by the lieutenant-colonel on the guide of the rearmost

company. If the column be marching in advance when the manoeuvre begins,
but is not to continue marching, the rearmost company halts; it is faced to the
front when the column is retreating. The march to the rear may also be
continued, when the rearmost company marches in quick time, whilst the
other companies close up in double-quick.
8.Column closed in mass to take wheeling

distance. 322 to 350.
When it should be necessary to form line of battle to the left (right), that is,
by wheeling into line, the companies must first take wheeling distance. This
can be done in different ways, according to circumstances.
89
When the column has arrived in rear of the line of battle, its guides parallel to
it, and it has to prolong itself on the line, the company at the head will begin
and the other companies follow, as soon as wheeling distance has been
obtained. When the rearmost company is at the place where the flank of the
line is to rest, and there is room enough forward, the companies take distance
from the rear, and therefore move forward. When the leading company is at
the place where the flank of the battalion is to rest, the companies take
distance from it, and therefore move to the rear. When the companies take
distance from the company in their rear, the captains must step two paces
outside the column and the directing guide, to be able to see when they have
their wheeling distance, and when they therefore must command "halt."
Firstly, a column closed in mass has to prolong itself. It takes distance "by
the
90
head of the column." The company at the head begins the movement at the
command of its captain. When it has marched about as many paces as the
following company contains files, the captain of this company commands
march, and so on, company after company, until the whole battalion moves in
open column, (general guides and color-bearer on the line of battle). The
colonel can now command "halt," and wheel the battalion into line. If the
column was marching, the company at the head begins the movement in
double-quick, and the other companies follow successively in the same gait
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as soon as the distance has been obtained, - a method which requires

comparatively little time.
Secondly, the column has to take distance "on the rear of the column." All
companies, except the rearmost, march forward at the command of the
colonel, and each captain halts and dresses his company when he
91
has arrived at wheeling distance from the guide of the company next in rear of
him. The guides remain faced to the rear till the command "guides about face"
is given. The general guide and the markers are placed in the alignment, in
order to assist the guides of the companies to move in the alignment.
Thirdly, the column has to take distance "on the head of the column." All
companies except the one at the head must face about and march to the rear.
The guides however, remain in the front rank, because the distance is to be
measured from from rank to front rank. They march on a line just within the
one marked by the general guide, in order to remain in the alignment. The
captain must again be outside the column and the directing flank, to
command at the proper time "halt, about face," ("right about, halt").
92
III. -COLUMN AT HALF DISTANCE.
Columns at half distance are used on the march. They allow the men to
move with greater ease, and yet permit the prompt execution of any
manoeuvre, circumstances may require. As the column at half distance
partakes of the nature of both, that in mass and at wheeling distance, the
manoeuvres will be in agreement now with the one, now with the other.
1.To ploy a battalion in column at half dis-
tance.159.
This manoeuvre is executed in the same way as ploying, into close column,
only the companies take not six paces, but platoon distance, to which the
guides must attend.
2.Column at half distance to take wheeling
distance.322 to 350.
See column closed in mass.
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93
3. Column at half distance into line of battle.
501 to 509.
Line of battle can be formed from column at half distance.

a.To the flank. The companies take first wheeling distance, and then wheel
into line. When the column is marching, and no time to be lost, the taking of
distance and the wheeling into line can be combined. The rearmost company
wheels at once into line (left or right, according as the column may be right or
left in front), whilst all the other companies continue advancing, and thus take.
wheeling distance on the rear of the column. Each company wheels into line
as soon the preceding company has obtained its distance. The guides attend
to the same duties as in the formation of an open column in line of battle.
b.On the right (left) into line. See open column.
94
c.Forward into line. The companies have only platoon distance; they can
therefore not execute the manoeuvre as if they were in open column, without
producing disorder. Hence the column closes first in mass and then deploys,
or deploys at once.
d.Faced to the rear. See open column.
4.Column at half distance to close in mass.

252 to 280.
See column at full distance.
5. To march in column at half distance. 281
to 286.
See close column.
6.To change direction in column at half dis-
tance. 287.
See open column; but the pivot guides partly attend to the rules for close
column.
95
7. Countermarch. 351.
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See open column.

8. To form divisions. 380 to 388.
See open column.
IV. -COLUMN DOUBLED ON THE CENTRE.
The double column offers the greatest facility for the execution of
movements on the field of battle and near the enemy. Its formation from line
of battle and its deployment take half the time any other column requires; it
adapts itself to the accidents of the ground more easily than any other col-
umn; it can be promptly moved in any direction, front, rear, flank; it has mass
enough for a bayonet charge, and a front long enough to fire with effect; not
only the line, but any other column, and particularly the square, can be formed
from it. It is therefore most extensively used in modern tactics.
96
1. To ploy the battalion in order in line into column doubled on the centre.776
to 795.
The two centre companies, that is the fourth and fifth, do not move; the
third, second, and first form column left in front behind the fourth; the sixth,
seventh, and eighth form column right in front behind the fifth company. The
fourth and fifth, third and sixth, second and seventh, the first and eighth, form
each one division; the column is therefore at half distance, when the divisions
have company distance. The guide is right, because the battalion is here
considered quite by itself, or to be the battalion of direction; yet very
frequently the guide will be centre or left, according to circumstances. In
many cases, particularly when a square is to be formed to resist cavalry, it will
be necessary that the right guides of the right wing and the left guides of the
left wing should remain carefully covered both at a
97
halt and marching; because square, for instance, must be formed by wheeling
right and left into line, when those guides will be the pivots. If therefore the
companies have a different number of files, as will be frequently the case in
action, the men must take the touch of the elbows towards the guides at the
outer flanks.
If the column doubled on the centre should be formed from column right in
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front, this would be done as follows: The fourth company remains in its place;
the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth companies face to the left, march a
company distance, then by the right flank and halt when the fifth company has
arrived beside the fourth; meanwhile the third, second, and first companies
face to the right, and each marches by file right to the rear; as soon as the
right guide of the third company has arrived at company distance from the
fourth, he files right and the captain commands, "by com-
98
pany into line," when his company will form in the same line on which the
sixth company stands; the same is done by the second and first company
successively. In a similar way from column left in front the column doubled
on the centre can be formed. The fifth company does not move; the sixth,
seventh, and eighth face to the left, file left, and form successively in rear of
the fifth; the fourth, third, second, and first companies face to the right, march
the length of a company, face to the left, and halt when the fourth company
has arrived beside the fifth.
2.Deployment of the double column.796 to
816.
The column will mostly deploy on the fourth and fifth companies. Even if a
different front should be necessary, it may perhaps be easier to change first
the front of the column and then deploy it, than to execute the more
complicated manoeuvres explained in 803 to 814.
99
If the column be at half distance or closed in mass, the deployment will be

executed to the right and left on the principles explained in the chapter
"Column closed in mass." This deployment requires the least time, and even if
it should be necessary to deploy in double quick, the distances are so short -
only the length of three companies - that the men can arrive in line in perfect
order ready to fire deliberately or to advance the charge. To close in mass, if
the column be at half distance, and then deploy would require more time and
complicate the manoeuvre.
If it were necessary to deploy the column faced to the right, it could be
done in the following manner: The right companies wheel to the right into line,
the left companies "on the right into line;" and faced to the left, the left
companies wheel to the left into line and the right companies "on the left into
47 of 57 9/4/2016 12:37 PM
line."
100
3. To pass a defile in front or rear.

Suppose the column advances and finds a defile in its front. The colonel
will command "to pass the defile, first division by the left and right flanks,
double-quick, march," when the fourth company faces to the left and files
right; the fifth company faces to the right and files left, either double file or
not, according to the width of the defile. As soon as the division has passed
the defile by the length of a company, the captains command "by company
into line," and resume quick time or halt. All the other divisions do the same
successively. The whole column will not only have passed the defile in a
short time, but will also be ready to enter at once into the combat. In a similar
way the defile can be passed in retreat, when the first and eighth companies
begin the movement. It is evident that this manoeuvre is far superior to that
mentioned in 709, seq.
101
4.To charge in column doubled on the centre.

The first and eighth companies, - the flank companies of the battalion, now
in rear of the column, - form skirmishing line on the right and left of the
column aligned with the fourth and fifth companies, and fire whilst the column
steadily advances. When near enough to the enemy, the charge is sounded
and executed with all the momentum a column has. If successful, the
skirmishers pursue the enemy; if unsuccessful, the skirmishers cover the
retreat of the column, and keep the pursuing enemy in check.
C. -THE SQUARE.
There are two different classes of squares, hollow and solid ones. Each
has its peculiar advantages. The hollow square allows much space in the
interior; the solid square is more compact, is formed in shorter time and can
be easily moved in any direction.
102
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The hollow square is used in our army. Its object is to resist cavalry has there-
fore a purely defensive character. It must, however, be put together in such a
manner as to permit its easy chance into any other formation, which allows
offensive operations. The men should be thoroughly disciplined, and the four
fronts should be every moment ready to pour a destructive fire into the enemy,
or remain standing motionless at a charge bayonet. If the fire of the rear rank
be given without command, or if the colonel command too early, it is
altogether thrown away; whilst a good volley at thirty yards empties many
saddles, and renders the horses unmanageable. A square formed by good
soldiers, and commanded by good officers, cannot be broken by any cavalry,
unless it be seriously shaken by artillery previous to the charge.
A square cannot be formed at once from either line or column; some
preliminary
103
manoeuvres must be executed in order to get the battalion ready to form a
mathematical figure of four nearly equal fronts. Thewhole operation must
therefore be divided into two manoeuvres: firstly, the disposition of a battalion
to form square; and secondly, the formation of the square.
I. -DISPOSITION TO FORM SQUARE.

The manoeuvres must be as simple and prompt as possible, in
consequence of the speed of motion of the cavalry.
1.The battalion is in line of battle. 885
to 895.
It is easy to understand, that a battalion in line of battle would be ridden
down. Column must therefore be formed. The column by company has a
small front and great depth, and forms a rectangle of some power of
resistance. But not only would the ground frequently not allow this forma-
104
tion, but also the front would be very small, oppose very few bayonets to the
enemy, and produce little effect by fire. Hence the formation of the column by
division, either simple column right or left in front, or doubled on the centre.
The latter requires half the time that it will take to come into column right (left)
in front, it therefore offers the greatest advantages, 958. Any column can be
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either closed in mass, or at full distance, or at half distance. Now, the object
is, to arrange the divisions so that the second and third fronts, that is, the right
and left flanks of the square can be formed in the easiest way, namely, by
wheeling into line. Hence the column must be at half distance, measured from
the rear rank of the preceding division to the front rank of the one following
more in rear, so that, when the companies wheel right and left into line, the
flanks of the square are completely closed. The square formed in this manner
105
will be as nearly regular as possible, rendering it of little importance whether

the enemy attack front, flank, or rear. As soon as the fourth division has been
formed in the rear at half distance from the third division, the file-closers will
pass round the outer flanks and place themselves before the front rank. For
this division has to face to the rear, when the file-closers must be out of the
way as in all manoeuvres by the rear rank. If the battalion in line of battle be
advancing when the necessity rises to dispose it to form square immediately,
the column doubled on the centre is formed in double-quick, whilst the
division at the head of the column comes to a halt, because the square cannot
be formed when the column marches. If, however, the colonel should only
want to have the battalion ready to form square in case the cavalry should
attempt an attack, the march need not be interrupted, particularly not if a more
advantageous position
106
could safely be reached in this way, e. g., a marshy ground, a ditch, &c.
2. The battalion is in column by company.

817 to 820; 837 to 838; 846.
Two different manoeuvres are mostly necessary : firstly, form divisions;
and secondly, if the column be at wheeling distance, close up to half distance;
if the column be closed in mass, take half, that is, company distance by the
head or on the head of the column. The reason for doing so, viz: forming col-
umn by division at half distance has been stated before. The column will be
either right or left in front, as the column by company had been either right or
left in front. The distance may be taken either at a halt or marching. If the
formation of the square must follow as soon as the dispositions are finished,
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and the column had been closed in mass, the colonel will not be compelled to
wait till the fourth division has taken its dis-
107
tance; on the contrary, he will be able to save time by forming square as soon
as the third division has taken company distance.
3.The battalion is in column by division, doubled on the centre. 847 to 853.

If the column be at full distance, close to half distance at a halt or marching;
if the column be in mass, take half distance by the head of column. In the
latter case the square can be formed as soon as the third division has taken its
distance; if, however, the formation of the square is not to follow immediately,
the fourth division, too, takes distance.
4.Double file in four ranks.910 to 914;
932 to 937.
If (910) the square in two ranks should not be deemed sufficiently strong,
the companies form in four ranks. This will prove to be of advantage against
strong forces and
108
repeated attacks of cavalry, and particularly when the square is not exposed
to the fire of artillery.
a.The battalion is in line, and square is to be formed on the right or left flank
division,
(923to 930). The flank division doubles files in four ranks at a halt; the other
divisions ploy, but the chiefs cannot in this case command "halt front,"
because the double files must close up, and each, one after the other, face to
the front without undoubling, as soon as it has arrived close to the preceding
file. The captains and guides must now not forget that the company has only
half its original length, - that the distance therefore from the preceding
company ought to be also but half the original distance.
b.The battalion is in line, and square is to be formed from column doubled on
the Centre, (931 to 937). The fourth and fifth companies, in halt or marching,
will double files towards the centre, the most prompt method
109
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and in harmony with the nature of the column. The companies of the right
wing double on the left file, the companies of the left wing, double on the right
file as soon as the heads of the companies have arrived on a line with the
centre of the column.
c.The battalion is in column by company. 910 to 914. Firstly, divisions are
formed; secondly, the right companies double file on the left, the left
companies on the right file, that is, on the centre as in double column, in order
to save time.
d. The battalion is in column by division.
Each forms four ranks by doubling on the centre files.
110
11.-THE FORMATION OF THE SQUARE.

821 to 836 ; 840 to 845.
The battalion being now in column by division - simple or double - at half

distance, the file-closers of the fourth division before the front rank, the square
can be formed.
The right companies of the second and third divisions wheel right, the left
companies of the same divisions wheel left into line; the fourth division closes
up and faces to the rear; the color-bearer places himself in the rear rank, that
there may be two ranks of corporals in the centre of the first front. Thus a
hollow square is formed, having four equally strong fronts. The men fix bayo-
nets, charge bayonets; the rear rank of each front is ready to fire at the
command of the colonel (959). The flank files of the first and fourth fronts face
outward in order to complete the second and third fronts; the
111
salient angles being the weakest points of the square, half face of the flank
files mentioned would perhaps be better. The file-closers and officers must
cause the men to close gaps made by balls and bullets, and the wounded and
52 of 57 9/4/2016 12:37 PM
dead into the interior of the square. If there be four ranks, the rear ranks,
standing at support arms (960) will hasten to fill up the gaps and bayonet any
cavalrist who may have succeeded in breaking through the outer ranks. If the
men remain steady, the square cannot be broken; if they give way they are
lost. In almost every case in war, but particularly in this one, there is much
more danger when the men dodge, run, or in any way try save themselves,
than when they look danger boldly into the face. There are occasions when a
square can honorably withdraw, always ready to halt and receive the charge,
reform and be as useful as ever before; a
112
square of frightened men can never be rallied, can never retrieve their lost
honor.
The lieutenant-colonel and major align (822) the left and right guides at the
flanks preparatory to the formation of the second and third fronts. It follows
from this that if there be less files in the companies which are to form these
fronts, then in those that make up the first division, they must take the touch of
the elbows towards the outer flanks. At the command "guides, posts," they
take their places within the square, because there is no place for them in the
front rank. The captains of the second front remain on the left of their
companies, because touch of the elbows and direction is to be taken from the
first front; the captains of the third front remain on the right of their companies
for the same reason. Whether there are eight, or ten, or twelve companies, the
formation of the square is the same, only the second and third fronts will be
longer.
113
But an odd company can never be permitted, as it cannot form a front. If the
column, disposed to form square, be marching, the first front, (division at the
head of the column) halts as soon as the formation begins ; the square cannot
resist cavalry when moving.
The case has been supposed (953) of a battalion in column by company
being surprised by the appearance of cavalry under circumstances which
render it impossible to form first column by division. This would never
happen if the battalion, being near the enemy, were marching in column doub-
led on the centre. As, however, something must be done, it is this: the
companies take platoon distance, the first company halts, the platoons of the
53 of 57 9/4/2016 12:37 PM
following companies form the second and third fronts by wheeling right and
left into line, the last company closes up and faces to the rear as fourth front.
114
Suppose the column by division or company be closed in mass, and the

square must be formed without talking half distance, (965 to 969). This
square, called "column against cavalry," is the nearest approach to the solid
square of other armies. The manoeuvre requires very little time. All the
subdivisions of the column come to a halt and send from the interior flanks of
the inner companies (platoons) as many files as are necessary to fill up the
distances between the divisions (companies) on the outer flanks. Of course
they, as well as the two files at the outer flanks of the divisions, face outward
to form at once the second and third fronts. Perhaps even more time could be
saved by ordering the file-closers to form the files in question, at least
partially.
Whether the square be formed in quick or double-quick time, it must be
executed with the greatest order (962). This depends partly on the colonel - let
him give his com-
115
mands in time and without hurry - partly on the subaltern officers and men.
The manoeuvre should, therefore, be practised very frequently. Every
individual should know that want of strict order and coolness is certain
destruction and disgrace.
III. -TO FORM COLUMN FROM SQUARE AND REDUCE SQUARE. 863 TO 884;
970 TO 971.
There are two methods by which column can be formed from square.
They are very much the same. The one is used when the column must march
for some distance, and yet remain ready to form square at any moment; the
other is used when all danger of a cavalry attack has ceased, and is called "to
reduce square."
It happens sometimes that the order of battle being in two lines, large
masses of cavalry attack. Both lines form squares. The first line of squares
having suffered
54 of 57 9/4/2016 12:37 PM
116
much from artillery and cavalry, and the danger of renewed charges
continuing, the first line of squares takes advantage of the momentary lull and
retreats, whilst the second line advances to take its place. The distance being
a hundred yards and more, the men must be able to move freely and at the
same time be ready to form square promptly. This is one of the many exam-
ples to which 863 to 884 refers.
1.The square is to advance. The first division marches forward and halts at
company distance in order to allow the second division to have half distance
at once; the companies of the second front face to the left and march by file
left (inward); the companies of the third front face to the right and march by
file right (inward); both meet at the centre of the column and form thus
divisions again, at half distance. The fourth front faces about; it has already
half distance in consequence of the manceuvre
117
executed by the second and third fronts; the file-closers do not change places,
because the column remains disposed to form square.
2.The square is to retreat. For retreat the same dispositions are made as for
advance, and for the same reason, yet with the following additions: In order to
dispose the column to manoeuvre by the rear rank and at the same time to
form square, the file-closers of the inner divisions move round the outer flanks
of their companies behind the former front rank, now in rear. As soon as the
command "form square " should be given, the companies wheel by the rear
rank into line ; the fourth division marches forward at company distance; the
first division closes up and faces about.
3."To reduce the square " is to form column. But as it is not necessary to
remain in readiness to form square again, the file-closers of the rear division
and the colors take again their original places.
118
The formation of column from "column against cavalry" is executed in this
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way: the files taken from the inner flanks of the inner divisions return to their
original places, and the rearmost division faces about; its file-closers return to
their places behind the rear rank.
If the square had been in four ranks and column is to be formed (915) or
square to be reduced, it will be done in the same way as if the square had
been in two ranks.
IV.-TO MOVE THE SQUARE A GREAT

DISTANCE.
Form column as before stated, and then march in any direction desired.
V. - TO MOVE THE SQUARE A SHORT DISTANCE AND TO HALT IT.854 TO 862.

The division, in the direction of which the square is to be moved, be it the
first, second,
119
third, or fourth front, must march steadily forward, particularly the captain in
its centre, because the guide is centre. But also the other three fronts, after
having faced into that direction, must be careful to keep their ranks and files
closed and in perfect order, because the square must be ready to halt and to
resist cavalry at any moment. At the command "halt," the different fronts face
again outward, and there must be no necessity for closing the ranks or files,
because the enemy would take advantage of this to the destruction of the
square.
VI.- COLUMN IN FOUR RANKS TO FORM IN

TWO RANKS.916 TO 922.
As the column in four ranks was formed by doubling the files towards the
centre, so the undoubling of the files will be executed towards the outer
flanks. Each captain
120
must command and superintend the undoubling of files of his company.
VII. -OBLIQUE SQUARES.938 TO 952.
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The chapter of United States Tactics headed "Oblique Squares," supposes

the necessity that the square should be formed not on the basis of the
battalion, but that a change of front at half a right angle should be executed.
The whole manoeuvre will be more complicated, and most likely very rarely
used. If the battalion was in line, the formation of column by division and
change of front must be combined. The lieutenant-colonel marches twelve
paces, (that is, any convenient number of paces,) along the front rank of the
:first or last company (939), then twelve paces forward in a perpendicular
direction, in order to obtain two sides of a square, the diagonal of which will
be the direction of the column and of
121
the first front of the square. The first (or last) division wheels and dresses
against the markers; the next division breaks the first two files to the front, in
order to direct the leading guide on the outer flank of the first division to
proceed in this direction until half distance has been gained, and he files then
so as to march parallel to the markers. The third and fourth divisions break
slightly to the rear, and march in the shortest way parallel in rear of the
second. The rest of the manoeuvre contains nothing different from what has
been stated before.
If the battalion was in column by division, the "change of front by the flank"
is first executed, as explained in a preceding chapter, and then the same
manoeuvres which has been stated before.
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DIGEST http://www.mainecav.org/library/steffens.

AND PRESENTED TO THE FORTY-FOURTH MASS. REGIMENT.

310 WASHINGTON STREET, BOSTON.

Entered according to an act of Congress, in the year 1862 by

J. E.FARWELL AND COMPANY

37 Congress Street, Boston.

1. Formation of the battalion.

2. To open and close ranks.

3. To align a battalion in line of battle.

4. To advance and retreat in line of battle.

6. Oblique march in line of battle.

7. Change of direction and of front.

8. To advance and retreat by the right (left) of companies.

9. To march by the flank and to form orderin line.

10. Passage of obstacles.

11. To pass a defile in retreat.

12. Loading at will and firing.

I. - COLUMN AT FULL DISTANCE.

1. To form column at full distance.

a. By the wheeling of companies.

b. By breaking to the rear.

2. To pass from column at full distance into line of battle.

a. To the left (right) into line of battle.

On the right (left) into line.

Forward into line.

Into line, faced to the rear.

Into line by two movements.

3. March of a column at full distance.

II. -COLUMN CLOSED IN MASS.

1. To ploy a battalion in order in line into close column.

b. Close column right in front, in frontof theeighth company.

c. Close columnright in front on any other company.

d. Close column left in front in rear of theeighth company.

e. Close column left in front, in front of the first company.

f. Close column left in front on any other company.

g. Close column right or left in front, fromcorresponding column at full distance.

a. Fromcolumn rightin front deploy on thefirst company.

b. Column right in front to deploy on theeighth company.

c. From column right in frontdeploy on any other company.

d. Deploy column left in front.

3. To march and halt in column closed in mass.

4. To change direction of column closed in mass.

7. To form close column from open column.

8. Columnclosed in mass to take wheelingdistance.

III. -COLUMN AT HALF DISTANCE.

1. To ploy a battalion in column at half distance.

2. Column at half distance to take wheeling distance.

3. Column at half distance into line of battle.

b. On the right (left) into line.

c. Forward into line.

d. Faced to the rear.

4. Column at half distance to close in mass.

5. To march in column at half distance.

6. To change direction in column at half distance.

IV. -COLUMN DOUBLED ON THE CENTRE.

1. To ploy the battalion in order in lineintocolumn doubled on the centre.

2. Deployment of the doublecolumn.

3. To pass a defile in front orrear.

4. To charge in column doubled on the centre.

I. -DISPOSITION TO FORM SQUARE.

1. The battalion is in line of battle

2. The battalion is in column by company.

3. The battalion is in column by division, doubled on the centre.