to give them the _maximum
of shelter_, whilst inflicting the _maximum of loss_ on the enemy. This
applies to the placing of the whole line, and to the separate groups.
The way skirmishers produce their effect is by sharpshooting, which
requires calmness; and the more completely sheltered they are, the
calmer they will be, and the more deadly will be their aim.

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_.

D. RULES FOR INDIVIDUAL SKIRMISHERS.

1. In advancing, in retreat, or at a halt, use _every cover_ that
presents itself.

2. Preserve _the alignment and the intervals_, so far as possible. On
open ground, this may be done perfectly. In woods, skirmishers should
never, for a moment, lose sight of each other.

3. The security of the _flanks_ should be looked out for by the men near
them.

4. Run over _exposed ground_ as quickly as possible.

5. Approach the _crest of a hill_ with great caution.

6. If threatened by _artillery alone_, advance and kill off the men and
horses before they get into battery. When the pieces have got into
battery, lie down, if on exposed ground, till they limber up again, and
then recommence the fire.

7. A skirmisher, with the new rifled arms, ought, at five hundred yards,
to be _more than a match for a gun_; for, in men and horses, he has a
much larger target than the gun has in him.

Again, with the new rifle shells, he may be able to blow up a caisson.

8. Neither should a skirmisher have much to fear