EVOLUTION OF WAR.

Waikato Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 2677, 7 September 1889, Page 6 (Supplement)

EVOLUTION OF WAR.

In consequcncc of the greater range and power of modern artillery and musketry fire, a memorandum upon the formation of infantry for the attack has been issued by the British War Office. Troops alloted for the attiok will, when of sufficient strength, be divided into first, second, and third lines. "The first line, subdivided into firing line, supports and reserves, engages the enemy, and is intended eventuality to establish itself within charging distance of his position. The duties of the firing lines are to keep up a well-directed fire upon the enemy from the moment such fire becomes effective ; to push forward as near his position as possible: and thence to deliver such a heavy fire as will enable the second line to approach the point selected for attack, and drive liiin from it. The supports and the reserves keep the firini* line at its most efficient strength by filling the gaps caused by the casualties; protect its flank by the firing they can bring to bear upon any troops which threaten them ; encourage those engaged in front by the feeling that there is a body of comrades following to a'sist them. As the final stage is reached the support and reserves become absorbed in the extended line. During the advance nil serious flank attacks must be met by the reserves, who will also find any troops that may be required for the lodrrange fire. The sccond line assaults the position when its way is prepared through the losses inflicted on the enemy by the first line. The third line either confirms the success or covers the retreat of the first and sccond lines, and so prevents defeat becoming disaster. In the final stage of the attack, as the firing line nears the enemy's position and cannot advance further without unnecessary exposure, a convenient position should bo selected whence telling fire may be brought to bear upon the points of the enemy's position selected for attack. Should the reserve bo still in the rear it should now join the front line so far as to bring its fire up to the maximum of effect. The second line, well kept in hand, should now be led up to the firing line opposite the selected points of the hostile line, where from the firing line, tlio defenders must have suffered most. On reaching tho firing line the sccond line will double through it with cheers, carrying the position at the point of the bayonet, the drums beating and the bugles playing. The firing line will follow close in the rear. Tho third line, formed in the most convenient in:inner according to local circumstances, will work forward, ready to supply an attack, to meet tho enemy's reserves if a serious counter attack is made when the assault is delivered, and subsequently to confirm tho success of the attack by opening a heavy fire upon the enemy as ho retivats, or by the niero occupation of the captured position."