Chapter C: How Handled

1. Deploy them _before coming within range of musketry_; for infantry in compact order is a good target for the enemy.

2. They should be kept _well in hand_; especially at the moment of success, when they are in danger of rushing headlong to destruction.

3. Coming upon the enemy's main body, they should _occupy him in front and flank_ till our own main body gets up.

4. Except in urgent cases, never deploy a line of skirmishers _on a run_; for this makes them lose breath and calmness, and, with their calmness, their accuracy of aim.

So, after deployment, avoid all rapid and violent movements.

5. Skirmishers become exhausted after long firing. The longer they continue out, the worse they shoot. Therefore, _relieve them often_.

6. Skirmishers should be accustomed to _lie down_ at a given signal; as it is sometimes very important that both our artillery and infantry should be able to fire over them.

7. In retreat, skirmishers occupy every favorable point for _holding the enemy in check_.