When a force has to cover long stretches under conditions which make it probable that a cavalry attack will be made, the battalions, companies, or platoons should be so grouped that they can quickly meet the cavalry attack in any direction, and can mutually support each other in warding it off. Staffs and vehicles should place themselves within the protected area thus formed. The threatened units turn in the appropriate direction, properly utilizing cover and obstacles while so doing, and, when necessary, fix bayonets. Only such a part of the force is designated to fire as seems necessary for warding off the attack; the other parts continue to carry out the task assigned them. The commander retains a part of his force in readiness for warding off unexpected attacks. “When exposed to hostile fire while warding off a cavalry charge, the men should assume the position offering the smallest target. “If a platoon is _directly attacked_ by cavalry, it will only in rare cases be advisable to open fire at ranges beyond 600 paces (450 m.); _frequently it will be a good plan, however, to let the cavalry come up close_. When the platoon participates in warding off a cavalry attack made against another unit, it may open fire at longer ranges. “Fire at will is the principal kind of fire to be used in warding off cavalry.” =France.= Infantry, no matter in what formation it may happen to be, has nothing to fear from hostile cavalry, even if the latter is in superior numbers, provided the infantry remains cool, well in hand, and makes good use of its fire. When cavalry surprises infantry, the effect is as great as of old. Infantry should therefore carefully protect itself in all situations of combat, especially during critical moments. If cavalry is reported, infantry can guard against all contingencies by echeloning. It should not allow itself to be diverted from its task so long as the cavalry does not begin an attack. Any disposition that enables infantry to change front quickly to meet a charge, and to deliver a strong fire, is calculated to stop even the boldest cavalry. When fighting dismounted cavalry, it is considered desirable for the infantry to advance quickly to medium and short ranges for the purpose of firing upon the cavalry as it mounts. =Russia.= Nothing prescribed. =Japan.= Infantry which, while engaged with the enemy, is forced to discontinue its movement or to change its formation for the purpose of warding off hostile cavalry, has already suffered a partial defeat. Only those fractions that are absolutely necessary for repulsing the cavalry should take up the fight against it. VIII. INFANTRY VERSUS ARTILLERY. 1. THE PASSAGE OF INFANTRY THROUGH ARTILLERY LINES.