5. On open ground, in order to avoid unnecessary loss, the reserve must advance in several lines of skirmishers. In close country, the reserve should move in as compact a formation as the ground will permit, due regard being paid to the protection of the flanks.
6. The initial formation of the companies in reserve will be decided by the officer commanding, and will depend altogether upon the ground. Wide intervals are not so essential as for the firing-line and supports, and on ground which is little exposed to fire company columns, or columns of fours may be resorted to with advantage. It will seldom be necessary, however, that the formation of each successive line should be identical; and, during the advance, the formation of each company will be altered, in order to take advantage of cover or to avoid shot-swept spaces, at the discretion of its own commander.
156. Holding Attack.
The holding attack will be carried out by a battalion in accordance with the principles already laid down; the frontage being larger, and the reserve smaller than in a decisive attack, S. 139.
157. Instruction.
It is always advisable, in instructing a battalion, to hand over the entire control of the companies in firing-line or reserve, with the exception of the portion retained at the disposal of the officer commanding, to their own leaders, and to give each of the latter a free hand in carrying out the task assigned to him. Such a method, with inexperienced company officers, may at first lead to mistakes and misunderstandings; but as soon as these officers gain confidence, become accustomed to working in concert, and understand what is required of them, energetic combination will take the place of hesitation and bewilderment, and the officer commanding will find himself supported by a body of zealous and self-reliant assistants, capable of executing his intentions without depending on continual instructions.
Moreover, the practice of carrying out an attack by the co-operation of several independent units is the only method possible in a hotly contested action.
It must be made clear whether the battalion is supposed to be acting alone or in conjunction with other troops.
THE BRIGADE IN ATTACK.
158. General Rules.