=268.= If an inspection of arms of a detailed character be made in connection with a _dismounted_ formation it is conducted by the above commands and in accordance with the above methods in so far as applicable. Rifles are presented for inspection as described without special indication when the inspector approaches the rank after commanding =FRONT= (par. 258). Except when rifles are slung as provided in the next sentence, each trooper executes =order arms= as soon as his rifle is returned to him. Should the troopers be armed with both rifle and pistol, each trooper slings his rifle as soon as inspected if the equipment in use so permits; otherwise the rifles are stacked (par. 115) by command after being inspected. The pistols are then inspected, after which =take arms= (par. 116) is executed before the troopers are dismissed. PART II--ELEMENTARY COLLECTIVE INSTRUCTION. =Section 5. Elementary collective instruction.= GENERAL PROVISIONS. =321.= The elementary collective instruction of the trooper includes the instruction in the =School of the Squad= and in the mechanism of the movements prescribed in the =School of the Platoon=. This latter instruction is given as prescribed in par. 444. =Section 6. Basic principles of the drill.= =322.= The following provisions apply generally to the =School of the Squad and to all subsequent drill=. Previous provisions of a similar general character are to be found in pars. 43-49. =323.= =Leading=: A commander leading his unit marches in the direction and at the gait desired. He is followed at a specified distance by the base (Def.), which conforms to his gait and direction. The commander thus controls the movements of the base, and may at any time by his indication conveyed in the most convenient way (as by his own movements, his commands, or signals) cause the base to change its direction or to increase or decrease the pace or gait or to halt, according to the object in view. Elements of the same kind as the base regulate upon the latter conforming to its gait and direction. =324.= =Directing leader=, =directing guide=: A commander who desires to become temporarily free in his movements may leave his position as leader, first indicating: =DISREGARD= (_see_ Signals) for the information of the leader of the base unit, who then becomes the =directing leader= (Def.). The latter then ceases to follow in the trace of the commander and temporarily conducts the march. In the absence of other indication from the leader he maintains the existing direction and gait. =When necessary= the conduct of the march of a group (e.g., a platoon) having no subordinate leader may similarly be intrusted to the guide. The latter then becomes the =directing guide= (Def.).