which it can scan the country and at night it
seeks a position from which the sky line can be observed.

ENCOUNTERING THE ENEMY

If a small hostile patrol is encountered it is generally better to
remain in concealment and let it pass than to attack. The noise of a
fight may be heard by the enemy, the presence of the patrol therefore
indicated, and the enemy will take further precautions to oppose its
operations. If the patrol is suddenly attacked or surprised by a
superior force, the patrol should at once scatter in all directions and
the members make their way back to the last place designated as a
meeting place and then after reuniting continue the reconnaissance.
When a patrol fights it does so resolutely. Courage and coolness may
bring about success when adverse conditions are encountered.

RETURNING

A patrol can never be certain that the enemy's patrols are not operating
in its rear. Hence in returning, it is necessary to observe the usual
precautions. If the patrol has eluded the enemy, it is best to return
over a route other than that over which the start was made. If a patrol,
after having accomplished its mission, is being pursued, it is well,
especially when near its own lines, to engage the pursuing troops so as
to give warning of its approach to the outpost line. Under the
conditions just mentioned, except the patrol is a great distance from
its outpost line, it may be necessary as a last resort to have the
patrol scatter and each man return individually.

CHAPTER IV

TARGET PRACTICE

Military shooting or target practice is very different from shotgun
shooting, or even the kind of shooting required of a large-game hunter;
therefore we should begin with the most elementary instruction and
drills, if proficiency is to be obtained. Our "Small Arms Firing
Regulations" says, "The sole purpose of rifle training for the soldier
is to make of him a good shot under war conditions."

Proficient shots are made off the range and not on it. By this we mean
that the preliminary instruction you will receive before you go on the
range will be of more benefit to you than the actual firing for record.
Indeed, firing on the range will only test your ability to put into use
the many points covered by your preliminary instruction. Therefore, if
you are to become a proficient shot, maintain your interest and
enthusiasm at its highest pitch during the preliminary instruction.

Your preliminary ins