334 
EoLE OF HOESE AETILLEEY. 
It is impossible to lay down strict rules for its further guidance, as its 
subsequent movements must be regulated by circumstances, which 
must be taken advantage of by an able leader on the spur of the 
moment. Its main object is to support the attack to the last ; and 
with regard to this point, it is a disputed question whether on its fire 
becoming masked by the advance of its cavalry, it should advance to a 
shorter range or “ stand fast and operate against the enemy’s artillery, 
against his flank attacks, and against his reserves.” The latter is the 
opinion of Kraft, Prince of Hohenlohe, but, as before stated, its action 
must be regulated by circumstances, e.g., the nature of the ground, 
whether favourable for rapid movement or not, the abundance or 
dearth of suitable positions, and whether it has been able to take up 
its first position at close range. 
But, if a rule be laid down, we should say that a portion should 
advance in time to be in position before the fire of the remainder 
becomes masked, in order to afford that support which is essential up to 
the last, and the cessation of which for a moment might be fatal. 
Moreover, thus echeloned, the batteries will be equally well prepared 
for either of the next phases of the action, to advance and complete the 
rout or to cover the retreat. 
Occasions may occur when large masses of cavalry may be thus 
employed with advantage, but they will be few. 
“ It may be questioned if the charges of large masses of cavalry, as 
executed during the wars of the early part of this century, . . . can 
now be carried out.” Its action on an actual battlefield must “ now be 
generally limited to watching the flanks, checking the action of the 
hostile cavalry, attacking broken and repulsed infantry.” * 
But to the heads given above for the action of horse artillery and 
cavalry combined may be added a new one, viz., “ Attacking the 
enemy’s dispositions by means of artillery fire under the protection of 
cavalry.” f 
General rdie This will be the chief role on the actual battle-ground of the main 
ler^on^the army. And for its execution it is advocated that a certain number of 
field of bat- batteries (according as the country affords facilities for their use) be 
retained in attendance on the heavier batteries, either out of action, or 
at all events in positions specially chosen with a view to future 
movement. 
“ Recent experience points out that it is not impossible to withdraw 
batteries from action, and move them, if required, to other parts of the 
field even under effective hostile fire.” t 
Thus placed, their duties will be, supported by cavalry, to follow up 
the work of the heavier batteries supporting attacks and counter¬ 
attacks at decisive ranges, to manoeuvre against the enemy’s artillery 
and other masses, and against his flanks, always obtaining when 
possible flanking fire. 
This action will frequently necessitate great exposure, but, as Colonel 
*Home, 1873. f Colonel Smyth, Prize Essay, 1870. 
$ Captain Clayton. R.A., 1877. 
