The works of the famous Nicholas Machiavel, citizen and secretary of Florence written originally in Italian, and from thence newly and faithfully translated into English.

CHAP. IX.

Of certain things which are requisite upon a march.

Fabr.

THat no sudden attack may be able to disorder your Souldiers, you must com∣mand them to stand ready with their arms, for things that are foreseen and ex∣pected, are less terrible and hurtful. Many persons to avoid confusion in their march have disposed their Carriages, and unarm'd people near the Colours, with command to follow them close, that upon a halt, or retreat, (if there should be occasion) they might do it more easily, which is a good way, and I like it well. A General is likewise to have a great care that his men do not straggle in their march, or march unequally, some too fast, others too slow, which would weaken his Army, and expose it to great disorder. It is convenient therefore to place their Officers in the flanks, that they may keep them uniform in their motion, restraining those who are too hasty, and soliciting those who are too slow, and that cannot be done better than by the Trumpets and Drums. The ways are likewise to be en∣larged and repair'd, so as one Company at least may always march in order. Besides this, the custom, quality and humour of your enemy is to be considered, whether he be like to as∣sault you in the morning, at noon, or at night. Whether he be strongest in horse or in foot, and as you are inform'd of that, you order your men, and provide every thing neces∣sary. But to come to some particular accident.