ties.

* * * * *

For MANOEUVRES OF BOATS ARMED FOR SERVICE, see "Naval Howitzers
Afloat;" by Commander Foxhall A. Parker, U.S.N.

LANDING SEAMEN, MARINES, AND HOWITZERS

FOR EXERCISE OR SERVICE ON SHORE.

69. As the efficiency of seamen when landed in any considerable number
depends most materially upon a proper system of organization and
training previous to their being landed, and without which they are
inefficient, the following system is recommended:

70. The small-arm men are to be formed into companies of 80 men, with
four petty officers. Each company to be commanded by a Lieutenant,
with two other officers. The company to be subdivided into two
platoons, and each platoon into two sections, and to be exercised in
such movements as are absolutely necessary to manoeuvre as a company
and in battalion, by the officers who are to command them.

71. Small vessels should furnish a platoon of 40 or section of 20 men,
that the companies formed by their aggregation may be of equal
strength.

72. The companies when landed are to fall in, and number from the
right according to the seniority of the Captains of their respective
ships, so that they at once will fall into their places according to
their number when landed.

73. Each ship landing two companies is to be prepared to land with the
small-arm men six Pioneers--2 with a saw and axe each, 2 with a
pickaxe and spade each, 2 with a small crowbar and sledge-hammer, or
such intrenching or other tools as the nature of the expedition may
require; the tools to be slung on the men's backs; smaller detachments
a proportionate number.

74. The ship's bugler, if she have one, or drummer, will be sent with
the men. He is to be able to sound the "Assembly," "Retreat," "Close,"
"Extend," "Commence Firing," and "Cease Firing," which sounds the men
are to be accustomed to on board ship.

75. If the men are likely to be on shore during the night, they should
have a haversack and blanket slung across their shoulders.

76. As muskets are apt to miss fire the first time if not properly
clean, the greatest precaution is to be taken to see that the nipple
is perfectly clear before loading; first, by blowing down the barrel
and placing the finger before the nipple, to feel that the air passes
through it, and afterwards snapping a cap off to dry up any oil or
moisture that may be in the barrel. To avoid accidents, it is better
not to cap the mus