CHAPTER XX

TRAINING OF THE MAN

Standard of proficiency--Riding, the old and the new system--Instruction in care of horse--Most difficult to teach or check--Result of a bad system--Napoleon’s cavalry in Russia--The care of horses must be the result of system--Long rides for recruits as a method of instruction--Riding to hounds--Care of horse now more necessary--Shooting--Is good, but fire discipline is essential--The personal weapon--Method of instruction--Mental and muscular development--The handy man--Influence of sports--Swimming--Pioneering-- Cooking--Seaside work for a cavalry brigade--Squadron competition--Regular soldiers and colonials--The practical instruction--Theory--Instruction in _moral_-- A Japanese view--Demonstration--Intercourse between officers and men--Grumbling Page 202

DIAGRAMS

NO. PAGE I. Defensive and Offensive Flanks 40

II. The Two Forms of Attack 43

III. Column of Regimental Masses compared with Column of Squadrons 45

IV. The Formation for the Attack 47

V. Squadrons _en bondes_ 60

VI. Cavalry Brigade in Action 64

VII. The Passage of a Defile 67

VIII. Cavalry Attack on Dismounted Men holding a Kopje 104