The battalion being in column of companies at full distance, all officers dismounted, the major commands: 1. Prepare for inspection, 2. MARCH.
At the first command each captain commands: Open ranks.
At the command march the ranks are opened in each company, as in the inspection of the company, as prescribed in [par. 646].
The field musicians join their companies.
The drum major conducts the band to a position 30 paces in rear of the column, if not already there, and opens ranks.
The major takes post facing to the front and 20 paces in front of the center of the leading company. The staff takes post as if mounted. The color takes post 5 paces in rear of the staff.
Field and staff officers senior in rank to the inspector do not take post in front of the column, but accompany him.
The inspector inspects the major, and, accompanied by the latter, inspects the staff officers.
The major then commands: REST, returns saber, and, with his staff, accompanies the inspector.
If the major is the inspector he commands: REST, returns saber, and inspects his staff, which then accompanies him.