“The first quality in a general-in-chief,” says Montécuculli, “is a
great knowledge of the art of war. This is not intuitive, but the
result of experience. A man is not born a commander. He must become
one. Not to be anxious; to be always cool; to avoid confusion in his
commands; never to change countenance; to give his orders in the midst
of battle with as much composure as if he were perfectly at ease. These
are the proofs of valor in a general.
“To encourage the timid; to increase the number of the truly brave; to
revive the drooping ardor of the troops in battle; to rally those who
are broken; to bring back to the charge those who are repulsed; to find
resources in difficulty, and success even amid disaster; to be ready at
a moment to devote himself, if necessary, for the welfare of the state.
These are the actions which acquire for a general distinction and
renown.”
To this enumeration may be added, the talent of discriminating
character, and of employing every man in the particular post which
nature has qualified him to fill. “My principal attention,” said
Marshal Villars, “was always directed to the study of the younger
generals. Such a one I found, by the boldness of his character, fit
to lead a column of attack; another, from a disposition naturally
cautious, but without being deficient in courage, more perfectly to
be relied on for the defence of a country.” It is only by a just
application of these personal qualities to their respective objects,
that it is possible to command success in war.