The duty of an advanced guard does not consist in advancing or
retiring, but in manœuvring. An advanced guard should be composed
of light cavalry, supported by a reserve of heavy cavalry, and by
battalions of infantry, supported also by artillery. An advanced guard
should consist of picked troops, and the general officers, officers
and men, should be selected for their respective capabilities and
knowledge. A corps deficient in instruction is only an embarrassment to
an advanced guard.