Every year the Mayor of each "Commune" draws up a list of all the young men who have arrived at the age of twenty during the past twelve months.
These lists must be posted up by January 14 at the latest. The names of the sons of foreigners, if born in France, are included, and unless they claim foreign nationality they are liable to serve, and on failing to do so when called upon are regarded as deserters and punished accordingly.
Domicile is established by the parents' residence.
Every year the War Minister fixes the number of conscripts required to serve three years with the colours; those in excess of that number are called upon to serve for one year only; but during the following two years they are liable to be called upon to complete their time of active service.
In order to determine those who are to benefit by this arrangement tirage au sort (drawing lots) is resorted to.
In time of peace, conscripts falling under any of the following categories, among others, are also called upon to serve for one year only:
(a) The eldest of orphans, or the eldest son of a widow, or of a family whose father is blind, or has reached his seventieth year.
(b) The only son in a family of seven children or more—or the eldest son of a family of at least seven.
(c) The elder of twins.