In the making of Grand Reconnaissance, one always must be wary of placing too much confidence in appearances and in first impressions. Especially must care be taken not to magnify the weaknesses of the hostile army, nor the efficacy of the kindred position.
Also, one never should underrate:
- 1. The talents of the opposing commander; nor
- 2. The advantages possessed by the opposing army:
- (a) In numbers,
- (b) In organization,
- (c) In position,
- (d) In topography,
- (e) In time,
- (f) In mobility.
It is a first essential, constantly to note the movements of the enemy, in order to detect his plans and the exact location of his corps.
These things are the only reliable guides for determining the true course of procedure. It must be left to the enemy to show by his movements and the posts which he occupies, the measures he projects for the future, and until these are known, it is not proper to ACT. Hence:
PRINCIPLE
All movements of Corps Offensive should be governed by the POSITION of the hostile army, and all movements of Corps Defensive should be governed by the MOVEMENTS of the hostile army.
As soon as the enemy begins a movement, his intentions become clear. It is then possible to make precise calculations.
But be not hasty to build conclusions upon uncertain information and do not take any resolutions until certain what are the numbers, the position, the objectives, and the projects of the enemy.