| The knowledge of a country is to be attained in two ways; the
first (and that with which we ought to begin) is, by a careful and studious examination of
a map of the country which is intended to be the scene of war, and by marking on it very
distinctly the names of all the rivers, towns, and mountains that are of any consequence. Having
by this means gained a general idea of the country, we must proceed to a more particular
and minute examination of it, to inform ourselves of the directions of the high roads, the
situation of the towns, whether by a little trouble they can be made tenable, on what side
to attack them if they are possessed by the enemy, and what number of troops are necessary
for their defence.
We should also be provided with plans of the fortified towns, that we may be acquainted
with their strength, and what are their most assailable parts. The course and depth of the
large rivers should also be ascertained, how far they are navigable, and if shallow enough
at any points to allow of being forded. It should also be known, what rivers are
impassible in spring and dry in summer. This sort of enquiry must extend likewise to the
marshes of any consequence that may be in the country.
In a flat, smooth country, the fertile parts should be distinguished from those that
are not so, and we must be well acquainted with all the marches that either the enemy or
ourselves can undertake, to pass from one great city or river to another. It will be
necessary also to break up those camps, which are liable to be taken on that route.
A flat, open country can be reconnoitred presently, but the view is so confined in that
which is woody and mountainous, that it becomes a business of much difficulty.
In order, therefore, to procure intelligence so highly important, we must ascend the
heights, taking the map with us, and also some of the elders of the neighboring villages,
such as huntsmen and shepherds. If there be one mountain higher than another, that
must be ascended, to gain an idea of a country which we wish to discover.
We must gain a knowledge of the roads, not only to be satisfied in how many columns we
may march, but also that we may be enabled to plan a variety of projects, and be informed
how we may reach the enemy's camp and force it, should any be established in the
neighborhood, or how place ourselves on his flank, should he alter his position.
One of the most material objects is, to reconnoitre situations that, in case of
necessity, may serve as camps of defence, as well as a field of battle, and the posts that
may be occupied by the enemy.
A just idea must be formed of all these matters of intelligence, as well as of the most
considerable posts, the vallies, chief defiles, and all the advantageous situations which
the country affords: and we must seriously reflect on every operation that may take place,
so that by being prepared beforehand with a plan of arrangements, we may not be
embarrassed when called into action. These reflections should be well connected, and
maturely digested, with all the care and patience that an object of so much consequence
requires; and unless we can arrange the matter to our satisfaction the first time, we must
try it over again and again till we have got it perfect.
It is a general rule in the choice of all camps, whether for offence or defence, that
both wood and water be near at hand, that the front be close and well covered, and the
rear perfectly open.
If circumstances forbid the examination of a country in the manner laid down, clever,
intelligent officers should be sent thither under any kind of excuse, or even in disguise
if necessary. They are to be well informed of the nature of the observations which they
are to make, and at their return, the remarks which they have made on the camps and
different situations are to be noted on a map: but when we can make use of our own eyes,
we ought never to trust to those of other people.
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