“MILITAR W0CHE1TBL ATT.” 
29th JUNE, 1892. 
COMPARISON OF THE MOST IMPORTANT REGULATIONS OF 
FOUR CONTINENTAL POWERS AS REGARDS THE DEFENCE. 
TRANSLATED BY 
COLONEL LONSDALE HALE, late R.E. 
GERMAN. 
The regulations lay down as tlie principle: “ It depends on the profitable use of 
the fire-arms; thus is determined, therefore, the selection of the position and skil¬ 
ful strengthening of the same.” The shooting line will from the commencement be 
as strongly held as is necessary for the object of the fight. The position is to 
be strengthened, the distances indicated by marks, ammunition distributed and 
kept in readiness; the supports are to be drawn forward and all distances in 
depth diminished. The number and breadth of the sections varies according to 
the ground, each is a unit of command with its own reserve. 
The main reserve is to be placed where it can pass to the offensive, which is 
necessary if a ‘victory is sought for. As a rule, this place is on one of the wings, 
the more to the flank as the defending force is larger ; by this means the danger 
from turning movements is at the same time guarded against. The position is 
occupied as soon as the direction of the attack is known. 
RUSSIAN. 
As principles are accepted : advantageous employment of fire-arms, then 
counter-attack with the bayonet. 
In selecting a defensive position, the field of fire, cover and distances are to be 
taken into consideration ; weak points to be occupied more strongly, artificial 
cover and communications provided, flank protection is to be attended to. The 
development of fire takes place gradually ; the ammunition is to be reserved for 
short ranges. The fire will be specially directed on the attacking shooters when 
they rush forward; the attack is repulsed by volleys delivered by the reserve 
from the shooting line. If the enemy does not hold his ground, the shooting 
line and the reserve attack him with the bayonet, and where possible by a part of 
the reserve on his flank. The reserves must, therefore, for this purpose be 
drawn forward in time. After repulse of the attack the enemy is followed up 
with fire. During a retreat individual shooters fire ; positions chosen in rear are 
to be occupied; the reserves retire with the shooters in quick time. 
Vi, VOL. XIX. 
