4. The choice of a _camp_ depends in a great measure on the position of the enemy, on his strength, and on the nature and situation of the country. 5. A skilful general will avail himself of all the advantages for a _camp_, which nature may present, whether in plains, mountains, ravines, hollows, woods, lakes, inclosures, rivers, rivulets, &c. 6. The disposition of the troops in _camp_ should depend on the nature and situation of the ground: as there are occasions which require all the infantry to encamp on the right, and the cavalry on the left; and there are others which require the cavalry to form in the centre, and the infantry on the wings. 7. A _camp_ should never be formed on the banks of a river, without the space of at least 2 or 3000 feet, for drawing out the army in order of battle: the enemy cannot then easily alarm the _camp_, by artillery and small arms from the other side. 8. _Camps_ should never be situated near rivers that are subject to be overflowed, either by the melting of the snow, or by accidental torrents from the mountains. Marshy grounds should also be avoided, on account of the vapors arising from stagnant water, which infect the air. 9. On the choice of _camps_ and posts, frequently depends the success of a campaign, and even sometimes of a war. CAMP _guards_. They are of two sorts, the one serves to maintain good order within the _camp_; and the other, which is stationed without the _camp_, serves to cover and secure it against the enemy. These guards are formed of both infantry and cavalry; and in proportion to the strength of the army, situations of the _camp_, and disposition of the enemy. Sometimes it is required, that these guards should consist of the 8th part of the army; at others, of the 3d part; and when an attack from the enemy is apprehended, even of the half. _Manner of stationing the_ CAMP _guards_. It is of the utmost consequence to station the guards in such places, as may enable them to discover easily whatever approaches the _camp_. 2. The guards of the cavalry are generally removed further from the _camp_, than those of the infantry; but never at so great a distance, as to endanger their being cut off: within cannon-shot is a very good distance. They are often stationed in highways, in open places, and on small heights; but, they are always so disposed, as to see and communicate with one another. 3. The vedettes to the out-posts should be double: for, should they make a discovery, one may be detached to inform the officer commanding the out-post, and the other remain on duty: they should not be at too great a distance from their detachment: probably, about 50 or 60 paces will be sufficient.