This phrase is familiarly used with respect to bodies of men which attack each other in a military way. ATTACK _and Defence_. A part of the drill for recruits learning the sword exercise, which is commenced with the recruit stationary on horseback, the teacher riding round him, striking at different parts as openings appear, and instructing the recruit how to ward his several attacks; it is next executed in a walk, and, as the learner becomes more perfect, in speed; in the latter under the idea of a pursuit. The attack and defence in line and in speed form the concluding part of the sword exercise when practised at a review of cavalry. It is to be observed, that although denominated _in speed_, yet when practising, or at a review, the pace of the horse ought not to exceed _three quarters_ speed. ATTENTION, a cautionary word used as a preparative to any particular exercise or manœuvre. _Garde-á-vous_, which is pronounced _Gar-a-vous_, has the same signification in the French service. ATTESTATION, a certificate made by some justice of the peace of the enlistment of a recruit. This certificate is to bear testimony, that the recruit has been brought before him in conformity to law and has declared his _assent_ or _dissent_ to such enlistment; and, if according to the law he shall have been, and is duly enlisted, that the proper oath has been administered to him by the said magistrate. ATILT, in the attitude of thrusting with a spear, &c. as was formerly the case in tournaments, &c. AVANT, _Fr._ foremost, most advanced toward the enemy, as AVANT-_chemin couvert_, _Fr._ The advanced covert-way which is made at the foot of the glacis to oppose the approaches of an enemy. AVANT-_duc_, _Fr._ The pile-work which is formed by a number of young trees on the edge or entrance of a river. They are driven into the ground with battering rams or strong pieces of iron, to form a level floor, by means of strong planks being nailed upon it, which serve for the foundation of a bridge. Boats are placed wherever the _avant-duc_ terminates. The avant-duc is had recourse to when the river is so broad that there are not boats sufficient to make a bridge across. Avant-ducs are made on each side of the river. AVANT-_fossé_, _Fr._ The ditch of the counterscarp next to the country. It is dug at the foot of the glacis. See FORTIFICATION. AVANT-_garde_. See VAN GUARD. AVANT-_train_, _Fr._ The limbers of a field piece, on which are placed one or two boxes containing ammunition enough for immediate service. AUDITOR, the person who audits regimental or other military accounts. AVENUE, in fortification, is any kind of opening or inlet into a fort, bastion, or out-work. AUGET, or AUGETTE, _Fr._ A wooden pipe which contains the powder by which a mine is set fire to. AULNE _de Paris_, a French measure, containing 44 inches, used to measure sand-bags.