elementary tactics, or of the theory of moving troops; but in field
fortification, as well as in the theory of positions, and of their
attack, its angles and lines rule like law givers who have to decide the
contest. Many things here were at one time misapplied, and others were
mere fribbles; still, however, in the tactics of the present day, in
which in every combat the aim is to surround the enemy, the geometrical
element has attained anew a great importance in a very simple, but
constantly recurring application. Nevertheless, in tactics, where all is
more movable, where the moral forces, individual traits, and chance are
more influential than in a war of sieges, the geometrical element can
never attain to the same degree of supremacy as in the latter. But less
still is its influence in Strategy; certainly here, also, form in the
disposition of troops, the shape of countries and states is of
great importance; but the geometrical element is not decisive, as in
fortification, and not nearly so important as in tactics.--The manner
in which this influence exhibits itself, can only be shown by degrees at
those places where it makes its appearance, and deserves notice. Here we
wish more to direct attention to the difference which there is between
tactics and Strategy in relation to it.

In tactics time and space quickly dwindle to their absolute minimum.
If a body of troops is attacked in flank and rear by the enemy, it soon
gets to a point where retreat no longer remains; such a position is
very close to an absolute impossibility of continuing the fight; it must
therefore extricate itself from it, or avoid getting into it. This gives
to all combinations aiming at this from the first commencement a great
efficiency, which chiefly consists in the disquietude which it causes
the enemy as to consequences. This is why the geometrical disposition of
the forces is such an important factor in the tactical product.

In Strategy this is only faintly reflected, on account of the greater
space and time. We do not fire from one theatre of war upon another; and
often weeks and months must pass before a strategic movement designed to
surround the enemy can be executed. Further, the distances are so great
that the probability of hitting the right point at last, even with the
best arrangements, is but small.

In Strategy therefore the scope for such combinations, that is for those
resting on the geometrical element, is much smaller, and f