SECTION IX.
DESERTERS COMING FROM THE ENEMY.
At Daytime.
As they are discernable at a distance, but cannot be known to be deserters, a proportionate number from the Picquet must already have advanced to the line of Videttes when they approach. Deserters generally make themselves known by flourishing the cap about their head, and calling out "Deserter!" But this is not to be depended upon; their further behaviour must be previously observed. They are to be told that it is an order in the army to take their arms from them—that is to say, their swords: the flints are only taken off the fire-arms. In proportion to their number they are then to be brought to the General's quarter by one, two, or three men, and their swords returned to them.
Whenever any property is taken from a deserter, the act is always to be severely punished.
At Night.
Great caution is to be used in this instance. The Videttes must order them to halt at some distance, and by no means allow them to come too near. The Picquet advances, and the Deserters are to come towards it one by one, and be disarmed immediately. After all this is done, they are brought to the rear. Deserters must be examined respecting the movements, &c., of the Enemy.
SECTION X.
WHEN THE PICQUET IS ATTACKED.
By Day.