MAXIM XLVIII.

The formation of infantry in line should be always in two ranks,

because the length of the musket only admits of an effective fire in

this formation. The discharge of the third rank is not only uncertain,

but frequently dangerous to the ranks in its front. In drawing up

infantry in two ranks, there should be a supernumerary behind every

fourth or fifth file. A reserve should likewise be placed twenty-five

paces in rear of each flank.

The Officer's Manual: Napoleon's Maxims of War · 第 100 / 163 题