Fortification.
Modern System.
FIELD FORTIFICATION.
REMARKS, AND GENERAL RULES.
1. The size of a work depends in general upon the number of men who are to defend it. If labour is the sole object of attention, the advantage must necessarily be the greater in proportion as the size of the work is less; but if the accommodation of the troops is only to be considered, the advantage depends greatly upon occupying much ground.
2. The form of the work should be such as to contain the greatest surface with the least perimeter. By an adherence to this maxim, we obtain the greatest accommodation for the troops with the least labour. The form of a field work seldom depends upon choice, but generally upon the spot where it is to be raised, the purposes for which it is to be constructed, and the nature of the ground in the vicinity.
3. The interior of the work ought to be so covered by the parapet, that the men within, except when on the banquette, may not be seen from any part without, at the distance of cannon-shot.
4. The circumjacent ground (to as great a distance as possible) ought to be cleared, that the enemy may not conceal, or shelter himself against the fire from behind the parapet. The nearer to the work that the enemy can find cover, the more advantageously he can form his dispositions; and, as his attacks may consequently be made with greater vigour, and be more readily supported, the success will be the more probable.
5. The flanking parts ought to be sufficiently capacious to contain all the men required for the defence of the flanked portions of the work.
6. The flanking parts ought to have nearly a direct view of those flanked; that is, the defence should be nearly at right angles, the most advantageous angle being 100 degrees.