In short, when the attacking column reaches the outposts it must be received with vigorous local counter-attacks delivered with the bayonet by the nearest bodies of the defenders. If a counter-attack comes as a surprise, the chances of success are all in its favour, but any success gained must not be followed up, the outposts should be withdrawn to their original positions, and patrols sent out to keep touch with the retiring enemy. It is most important that all ranks should realise that to wait to receive a charge is fatal; the only course open is to advance boldly with the bayonet; even if the counter-attack is not successful, the outposts will still have fulfilled their duty and have gained a few minutes’ time for the supports and reserves to form up. CHAPTER IV. TRAINING A COMPANY FOR OFFENSIVE ACTION. _Instruction in Reconnaissance._ The instruction of officers and selected non-commissioned officers and men in the art of reconnaissance for night operations must be carefully carried out, and the following method has proved to be useful. The Captain takes his class to the ground chosen, and, after explaining the tactical scheme, and pointing out the kind of information which is required, allows them a certain time to go over the ground and make their notes. At first the class should be allowed to move freely over the ground; but, as the instruction progresses, flags may be put out to mark the position of hostile posts and the class forbidden to approach them. When the notes are finished they should always be criticised on the actual ground. When the class thoroughly understand what to observe and how to report it, they should be ordered to reconnoitre by night ground which they have already reported on by day. The two reports should be compared, and any differences noted, and then the Captain should go over the ground with them _by night_, so as to actually check on the spot the accuracy and sufficiency of their observations. To make a reconnaissance suitable for the execution of night operations requires a great deal of practice, and it is only by constantly testing _in the dark_ the value of the reports sent in that one learns what are the points which it is essential to observe with accuracy. _Night Marches._ In carrying out night marches, the company should be practised as an advanced guard to a column, and as a company acting alone. In close country an advanced guard will consist of scouts, the point, and the main guard. The provision of a vanguard at night is undesirable—it lengthens the column without giving any practical advantage.