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force, which should be so posted as to be carreid to the support of
any critical point, whether offensive or defensive, more easily than
a part of the main line could be so carried.

Changes of formation made in the near presence of the enemy
are always critical; nevertheless it seems most probably that some
such must be practised owing to the different kinds of arms em-
ployed and to the necessities of concentration at special moments.
They should be as simple as possible; but it would generally be
better to attempt concentration by manoeuvre, rather than at once
throw in the reserve in order to bring a superior force on part of
an enemy's line. The reserve should be kept in hand, until the
condition of the fight is such that, by bringing it into play, the
scale will probably be turned finally in your favor; or of course
until the converse is seen: that if you dont throw it in you will
lose the day.