Half-companies or sections will then be moved off by their commanders by the shortest route, each unit as it reaches its position, halting. If two lines are to be formed, the requisite distance will be obtained by advancing the first line. This formation may also be carried out on the command LINE OF SECTIONS AT -- PACES INTERVAL, _or_ LINES OF SECTIONS ON NOS. -- AT -- PACES INTERVAL, AT -- PACES DISTANCE. If in line, sections will move outwards to obtain the necessary interval; if in column the even numbered sections will move to the left and the odd numbered sections to the right. A section of direction will be named. The subalterns will place themselves where they can best direct and superintend the movements of their half-companies. Whilst advancing in this formation, half-companies and sections may decrease or exceed the named intervals in order to take advantage of cover, or to avoid obstacles. But they should regain them as soon as possible, and the greatest attention should be paid to the maintenance of direction, a matter of much difficulty in close country, on mountains, and in woods. Changes of position and direction should be practised in the above formations, the orders being conveyed by signal, S. =49=; the unit on which the formation is made, and each unit in succession on reaching its new position will halt until the whole has conformed to the new direction, interval or distance, when the line will continue the advance. In all formations of this character, scouts will cover the movement and protect the flanks. The company commander will either give the necessary directions, or in default of orders from him, half-company commanders will send out scouts, using their own discretion as to numbers. 71. _Drill in single rank._ All the movements in company drill should be practised in single rank, and it will generally be found convenient to form two companies, one from each rank, or the right half-company becoming No. 1 company, the left No. 2. It will be unnecessary to form new sections and squads. This exercise is also of great use in training the subalterns to habits of independent action, and should therefore be frequently practised. =72.= _Fire action._