First give the elevation, and then the direction.
2. How is the elevation given?
By applying the quadrant to the face of the piece, and adjusting the quoin until the required number of degrees is indicated.
3. Are the same means employed for giving mortars their direction as those which are used with guns and howitzers?
No; because mortars are usually masked from the object to be struck, by an epaulment or parapet.
4. To what are all the methods employed for giving the direction to mortars reduced?
To determining practically two fixed points, which shall be in line with the piece and the object, and sufficiently near to be readily distinguished by the eye. These points being covered by the plummet, determine a vertical plane, which, when including the line of metal, becomes the plane of fire.
5. What is the simplest manner of directing the mortar?
By means of pointing-wires.
57]