10. In defence, if they can encircle the enemy's advancing column, they may destroy it by their concentric fire.
11. In a retreat, skirmishers cover the rear, so long as the enemy attacks without cavalry.
12. The new rifled arms have obviously much increased the effectiveness of skirmishers.
1. They should be always near enough to the main body to be supported by it, if hard pressed, and also to enable the main body to profit at once of any advantage that may have been gained by them.
2. They should cover the main body, both in front and in flank, except where the ground may render this impracticable or unnecessary; and, in defensive positions, they should occupy every point from which the enemy's skirmishers might annoy us.
3. In a defensive combat, they should be so posted as to take the enemy's attack in flank:
(1.) Because their fire will be thus the more destructive; and—
(2.) They will not be exposed to be driven back by the enemy's fire, or by his advance.
4. If thrown into an enclosure, they must have an easy exit. Skirmishers feeling themselves in danger of being cut off, will lose somewhat of that coolness which is so essential to their efficiency.