To direct operations with lines far removed from each other, and
without communications, is to commit a fault which always gives birth
to a second. The detached column has only its orders for the first
day. Its operations on the following day depend upon what may have
happened to the main body. Thus, this column either loses time upon
emergency, in waiting for orders, or it will act without them, and at
hazard. Let it therefore be held as a principle, that an army should
always keep its columns so united as to prevent the enemy from passing
between them with impunity. Whenever, for particular reasons, this
principle is departed from, the detached corps should be independent in
their operations. They should move toward a point fixed upon for their
future junction. They should advance without hesitating, and without
waiting for fresh orders; and every precaution should be taken to
prevent an attack upon them in detail.