To estimate distances, in the field.
Good eyesight recognises masses of troops at 1700 yards; beyond this distance the glitter of arms may be observed. At 1300 yards infantry may be distinguished from cavalry, and the movement of troops may be seen; the horses of cavalry are not, however quite distinct, but that the men are on horseback is clear. A single individual detached from the rest of the corps may be seen at 1000 yards, but his head does not appear as a round ball until he has approached up to 700 yards; at which distance white cross-belts, and white trousers may be seen. At 500 yards the face may be observed as a light coloured spot; the head, body, arms, and their movements, as well as the uniform, and the firelocks (when bright barrels) can be made out. At between 200 and 250 yards all parts of the body are clearly visible, the details of the uniform are tolerably clear, and the officers may be distinguished from the men.
Vide “United Service Magazine.”—No. CCCXXXI.
BY MEANS OF THE RECONNOITRING PROTRACTOR,
to traverse roads.
[Plate, Surveying, and Reconnoitring, [Fig. 5].]
Fix the protractor on the tripod at the first station, placing it so that the side tube may be in a direct line with the intended second station. From each end of the tube observe the objects in sight (or place pickets) in order to secure a straight line in pacing, or measuring, from the first to the second station. Mark the distance between the stations, and place the protractor, by means of the tube, in a direct line with the first station. Then select the third station, and direct the arm or index correctly to it (using the upper holes of the near sight for a declivity, or raising the sliding-sight for an ascent); note the angle thus found, and notice the objects in front, and rear (if any, if not, place pickets) for points to enable you to pace towards, and work with accuracy at the third station. Select station 4, place the tube in line with the third, and second stations; note the bearing of No. 4, and pace the distance to it. Proceed thus from station to station, entering the angles, and distances in your note-book, as well as the offsets (which must also be carefully measured) from the lines taken, until the survey is completed.
Construction—
The day’s work will be easily plotted on paper, by setting off the angles found, and drawing lines for the measured distances, according to scale.