When the ground is favourable, the gun would with advantage accompany that portion of the reserves told off to cover the advance of the remainder by long-range fire.
(ii) To bring a concentrated fire on any particular spot.
(iii) To assist in repelling counter-attacks to which the firing line may suddenly become exposed, and in the protection of the flanks against cavalry or counter-attack.
(iv) To bring fire to bear upon an enemy from a position on a flank of the battalion. The gun would, when so placed, be less liable to draw the fire of the enemy upon the infantry which it is supporting.
(v) To give effect to holding attacks by sudden outbursts of fire.
(vi) To establish possession of points gained.
4. The machine gun commander must be fully acquainted with the orders given to the infantry he is acting with and with all subsequent orders issued. It is his business to watch his infantry, and conform to their movements and keep touch generally. He should be allowed great liberty of action.
5. Especial care must be exercised to bring the gun into action without exposing it, and to screen it when in action. Machine guns should generally be used singly, though occasions may occur when it may be advisable to use them in pairs.
THE COMPANY IN ATTACK.
150. General Rules.