Rubicon. A small stream of Central Italy, falling into the Adriatic, has obtained a proverbial celebrity from the well-known story of its passage by Cæsar, who by crossing this river—which, at the outbreak of the civil war between him and Pompey, formed the southern boundary of his province—virtually declared war against the republic. Hence the phrase to “cross the Rubicon” has come to mean, to take an irrevocable step.
Rudiments. The first principles, the elements of any particular science; as, the rudiments of war, which are the first principles or elements of war; as, marching, facing, wheeling; the drill, manual, and platoon exercises, manœuvres, etc.
Ruffle. Is a low vibrating sound, less loud than a roll, produced by drummers. It is used as a compliment to general officers and at military funerals.
Rugen. The largest of the islands of Germany, belongs to Prussia, and lies in the Baltic, off the coast of Pomerania. In 1169 it was conquered by the Danish king Waldemar I. By the peace of Westphalia it was ceded to Sweden, but in 1815 it was transferred to Prussia.
Rules and Articles of War. See Appendix, [Articles of War].
Run. The greatest degree of swiftness in marching. It is executed upon the same principles as the [double-quick], but with greater speed.
Run the Gantlope. See [Gantlope].
Running Fight. A battle in which one party flees and the other pursues, but the party fleeing keeps up the contest.
Running Fire. A constant fire of musketry or cannon.
Rupture. This word signifies the commencement of hostilities between any two or more powers.