light infantry,--that
is, the most extended order that the ground admits of,--never massing
the guns in close order, but habituating the seamen to open out with
them in skirmishing order, keeping on their flanks, never in their
rear, using every cover of ground, trees, or, if time will admit,
throwing up some earth as a protection against riflemen or the
wide-spread fire of shrapnel,--while at the same time the fire is
concentrated to prevent attack on the pieces in detail, or is
dispersed, as may be required.

48. Such a drill will best develop the scope and efficiency of the gun
as a naval arm, and will render most effective the peculiar advantages
of its lightness and mobility in rapid movements.

49. Evolutions in action, or preparatory thereto, should always be
performed with the ammunition in the pouches; it being a common error
in the service to use the ammunition-boxes at such times, when they
are only designed for service out of action.

50. If liable to be attacked, all the ground within musket range,
especially if it is broken by ravines, should be reconnoitred,
particularly on the flanks; and, if possible, all the approaches by
which the enemy, and particularly cavalry can approach, should be
obstructed; and all obstacles to a retreat or change of position
removed.

51. Although commanding positions are to be preferred, the top of a
hill should not be chosen where the men and pieces are relieved
against the sky, forming a much better mark.

52. Shell and Shrapnel produce a greater moral effect than grape or
canister, and in general a greater real injury, as the latter are
generally fired at too great distances.

NOTES ON THE USE OF BOAT-HOWITZERS.

53. N.B.--Before equipping boats with howitzers, notice attentively
the Hints for General Service, commencing at page 146, Boat Armament
of the U.S. Navy, and Suggestions for Landing, of that system, which
relate more especially to the condition and management of boat-guns.

54. Too much care cannot be taken to be fully provided, and to have
each detail in good condition; for, after the boat has left the ship,
it may be impossible to compensate for failure in some seemingly
trivial article.

55. The chief purposes of naval light artillery are:

1. To attack small vessels that are lightly armed, and furnish but
slight protection to the crews.

2. To contend with other armed boats.

3. To cover the landing of troops.

56. The landing of seamen i