(In both of the foregoing cases the word “centre” is _usually uttered_, but the rules are necessary for the prevention of uncertainty in circumstances of rapidity.) 4. Extensions are in single files six paces apart, and firings are carried on by alternate ranks, front rank commencing. The front rank and rear rank man must never be unloaded together. _When not firing._ 5. All movements are in “quick time.” 6. Skirmishers when halted, _stand_, with arms ordered. _When firing has commenced_. 7. All movements of skirmishers are at the “double quick.” 8. Skirmishers while halting, on open ground drop on the right knee; on intersected ground they make the best of any cover near them, choosing their own bodily position. 9. In advancing, men whose rifles are loaded always pass by the _right_ of those who are loading; and in like manner in retiring, men who are not loaded pass to _the proper left_ of those who are nearly ready to fire. 10. In advancing, _all_ load “as front rank,” rifles on the left side, muzzles to the front; in retiring _all_ load “as rear rank,” rifles on the right side, muzzles to the rear. 11. In all movements directly to the front or rear, the right centre file of the company skirmishers, is the proper _file of direction_, to whose course all others conform, and from towards which they keep their relative distances. 12. In all movements directly or obliquely to a flank, the leading file of that flank is, _for the time being_, the file of direction. 13. In all changes of front on a fixed pivot, the file which is that pivot is, of necessity, _for the time being_, the file of direction. (See on this most important particular of “the file of direction,” Article VI. of “The Essentials.”) 14. Troops skirmishing at a greater distance than three hundred yards from the line or column, should retain one half of their number in support. (See on this subject Article VIII. of “The Essentials.”) 15. Skirmishers ordered to “form square,” close upon their supports. 16. If the bugle be employed, the less of it the better, provided the order be distinct to all concerned in it. 17. The _last_ note of a bugle order marks the moment for the _commencement_ of obedience to it. 18. All verbal orders and bugle commands not understood by the skirmishers, should be repeated in a low but distinct tone by officers and non-commissioned officers in charge of sections.