In transmitting the telegram shown in figure 16, the following would be sent by the operator: No 1 K Mo CK 14 OB fm Headquarters 1st Corps at Taylor's School House Kan 1 ho 1245 PM to Signals Platte City Mo. Request ten miles buzzer wire be sent here quick sig Jones CHAPTER V. THE SIGNAL STATION. LOCATION OF STATIONS. In field operations tactical considerations will usually prescribe within certain limits the number and general location of signal stations. The general directions for deployment being given, the signalman will be called upon to demonstrate his skill in the selection of particular locations most conducive to the efficient service of information. [Illustration: FIG. 17.--Field signal station.] _General considerations._--Considering all things, the best location for a signal station is one which affords maximum visibility and at the same time minimum exposure to hostile observation. These conditions, apparently paradoxical, can be more or less reconciled by the exercise of ingenuity on the part of the signalist. A good theoretical knowledge of the special requisites of signal sites, together with the ability to apply it to the conditions arising in any given case, will result in securing the best obtainable locations. The first essential of the signal station is visibility, the second being that of concealment from hostile observation. In acquiring a mean between conflicting requirements, the following special considerations in the selection of stations should be considered. _Backgrounds._--Backgrounds are important factors in the selection of signaling sites. Sky backgrounds are desirable as affording strong contrast and are therefore conducive to celerity in the transmission of signals. They are rare and can only be secured when stations are located on the exact crest of ridges, on mountain peaks, or on lands which bound the horizon of view from the other stations. Stations with sky backgrounds, while affording the best facilities for transmission, are little adapted to the requirement of secrecy. Dark backgrounds are far more common and more easily obtainable than sky exposures. They afford the maximum means of concealment from hostile observation, but materially reduce the range, speed, and accuracy of signal transmission. Mixed or broken backgrounds are those which display varied colors behind the signals. Backgrounds of this description do not accord with either of the essential requirements of the signal station and should be avoided whenever possible. In general, sky backgrounds should always be selected for signal stations when conditions are such that the requirement of secrecy can be dispensed with; if, on the other hand, there is reason to fear that the signals may be intercepted by the enemy, dark backgrounds should invariably be chosen, even though the disadvantages they impose, render them less desirable visually.