Captain A indicates to the rest of the men where the camp is situated and points out where the various sentinels are posted.  (This in itself affords an opportunity for much discussion and for teaching many valuable lessons.)

Captain A then calls up Sergeant B and tells him—­

(a) Just what information Captain A has of the enemy, and also any information of the country or of friendly troops in the vicinity that might be of service to Sergeant B.

(b) How many men he shall take for the patrol (this is another problem for Captain A to solve).  Any men present not used as part of the patrol go along with Captain A as observers.

(c) How far he shall go and what country he shall cover with the patrol.

(d) Just what information it is particularly desired he shall obtain.

(e) Where he shall send his messages and when he shall return.

Example 1: 

“Sergeant B, it has just been reported to me that a company of hostile infantry was in camp last night at X, about 5 miles from here on this road.  Take 5 men and proceed toward X and find out whether the enemy is still there, and if not, when he left and where he went.  Send messages to me here, and return by 8 o’clock this evening.”

Example 2: 

“Sergeant B, I think I heard the firing of field guns over in that direction a short while ago.  Take 6 men and proceed to that high hill you see over there about 4 miles away.  Send a message to me here when you reach there.  You may go farther if you then think it advisable, but return before daylight.  I desire particularly to know if there are any hostile troops in this vicinity, especially artillery.  I shall send Sergeant X with 3 men to observe the country from that hill you see over there farther to the south.  He will remain there till dark.  Send messages to me here.  If the company is not here on your return you will find a note for you underneath this rail.”

Example 3: 

“Sergeant B, this friendly country boy has just reported that four hostile cavalrymen stopped about half an hour ago at his father’s house, which he says is about 2 miles up this road.  One of the men seemed to be very sick.  You will select eight men from your section and endeavor to capture these men.  If they have disappeared you will reconnoiter in that vicinity until dark.  This boy will accompany you as a guide.  I desire particularly to learn the position, strength, and composition of any hostile troops in this vicinity.  Send reports to me here.  Return before daylight.”

Example 4: