1. That ARTILLERY, within the range of its fire, is powerful in
preventing the enemy's approach to it; but, only to a limited extent,
can pursue and drive the enemy from his position; and that its function
is, therefore, mainly DEFENSIVE.
2. That CAVALRY, by the impetuosity of its charge, is peculiarly fit for
driving the enemy from his position; but, remaining in position itself,
has but feeble power to prevent the enemy's approaching it; and this,
only by its carbine and pistol fire, which is far from effective; and
that its function is, therefore, mainly OFFENSIVE.
3. That INFANTRY has great power, both in keeping the enemy at a
distance by its fire and in driving him from his position with the
bayonet; and that this arm is, therefore, both OFFENSIVE and DEFENSIVE.
4. That although artillery is mainly a defensive arm, it plays an
important offensive part in the powerful assistance it renders to
infantry, in shattering and disorganizing the enemy's masses; thereby
opening the way for our attacking columns.
5. That although cavalry is mainly an offensive arm, its defensive value
is also very great in the protection it affords, in various emergencies,
to the other arms, by its actual charge, or by its threatening position.
The special parts usually played in battle by the three arms
respectively, may be briefly stated thus:--
Artillery prepares the victory; Infantry achieves it; Cavalry completes
it, and secures its fruits.