To Form two deep, is from rank entire or from three deep to produce a regular line of files.
To Form three deep, is to add the depth of one half file to two deep, and to produce the natural formation of a battalion in line.
To Form four deep, is to diminish the natural extent of a battalion formed in line, by adding one half-file to its depth.
To Form echellon, is, from line, or open column, to wheel a given number of paces forward or backward, so as to produce a diagonal or oblique direction in the different proportions of a line, the outward flank of each succeeding division, company or section, constantly preserving a perpendicular direction, at a regulated distance, from the inward flank of its leader, until it arrive at its point of junction.
To Form line by echellon, is to advance in column towards any given object by a diagonal movement, so as eventually to produce a regular continuity of front. See [Echellon] or [Diagonal movement].
To Form close column, is to march by files in detached proportions of a line, till each proportion shall arrive in front or in rear of any given body.
To Form open column, is to wheel backwards or forwards, or to march out by files, so that the several proportions of a line may stand in a perpendicular direction to one another, with intervals between them equal to the extent of their front.
To Form circle, is to march a battalion or company standing in line from its two flanks; the leading files bringing their right and left shoulders forward, so as to unite the whole in a circular continuity of files. On the word of command—To the right and left, form circle, the two flank files bring their right and left shoulders forward; and on the word quick, march, the whole advance. The centre marks time, each file from the direct central one gradually inclining to right and left till the junction of the two extremes has been completed.
The general use which is made of this formation is to punish offenders, or to convey public orders to the men in such a manner, that every individual may have an equal opportunity of hearing what is read, or delivered to the whole battalion.
To Form on, is to advance forward, so as to connect yourself with any given object of formation, and to lengthen the line.