Forage Guard, a detachment sent out to secure the foragers, who are posted at all places, where either the enemy’s party may come to disturb the foragers, or where they may be spread too near the enemy, so as to be in danger of being taken. This guard consists both of horse and foot, who must remain on their posts till the foragers are all come off the ground.
Main Guard, is that from whence all other guards are detached. Those who are for mounting guard assemble at their respective private parades, and march from thence to the general parade in good order, where, after the whole guard is drawn up, the small guards are detached to their respective posts: then the subalterns cast lots for their guards, who are all under the command of the captain of the main guard. This guard mounts in garrison at different hours, according to the pleasure of the governor.
Picquet Guard, a good number of horse and foot, always in readiness in case of an alarm: the horses are generally saddled all the time, and the riders booted.
The foot draw up at the head of the battalion, frequently at the beating of the tat-too; but afterwards return to their tents, where they hold themselves in readiness to march upon any sudden alarm. This guard is to make resistance, in case of an attack, until the army can get ready.
Baggage Guard, is always an officer’s guard, who has the care of the baggage on a march. The waggons should be numbered by companies, and follow one another regularly; vigilance and attention in the passage of hollow-ways, woods, and thickets, must be strictly observed by this guard.
Ordinary Guards, such as are fixed during the campaign, or in garrison towns, and which are relieved daily.
Extraordinary Guards, or detachments, such as are only commanded on particular occasions; either for the further security of the camp, to cover the foragers, or for convoys, escorts, or expeditions.
Soldiers are sometimes ordered to take extraordinary guards, as a punishment for slight misconduct.
Quarter Guard, is a small guard commanded by a subaltern officer, posted in the front of each battalion, at 200 feet or more before the front of the regiment.
Rear Guard, that part of the army which brings up the rear on a march, generally composed of all the old grand-guards of the camp.