〈◊〉 ●nstruc●●●●● 〈◊〉 and orders Military requisite for all Chieftains, captains 〈◊〉 higher and lower men of char●● 〈…〉 to understand, 〈…〉 Composed by sir 〈◊〉 smythe: knight, 1591. And now first imprinted. 1594.  
Imprinted at London, by Richard johnes: dwelling at the sign of 〈◊〉 and Crown, near to Sai●●●●drewes church in Holborn, 1594.   

To the Knights, esquires, ●nd Gentlemen of the English Nation, that are honourably delighted in the Art and Science Military.  
THE chief cause and principal end of the first association of men dispersed, from a solitary savage life, into Cities, Common wealths, or other civil societies, was, that by means thereof they might enjoy a certain common good, tranquillity, & happiness, whereunto all human kind (how barbarous soever) is naturally inclined; and the special ways or means to preserve and continue those civil societies thus assembled & united, 
Li. 4. de legib.  in their desired quiet prosperous estate, and to defend them from the unnatural rapines, 
Li. 1. de Repub.  violence and oppressions, of their domestical wicked neighbours, and from the incursions and invasions of foreign Enemies, is Religion, policy, and discipline military.  
Religion saith Plato, is the foundation of all Common wealths, and of human society; execution of good laws, and administration of justice, (which is rightly to be called policy) is the fountain of felicity: And the exercise of Arms and of the Art and discipline military, is the maintainer of peace, and ground of security; without these and every one of these, no kingdom can continue, and the Common wealth where they are with good order established, doth prosper and flourish: For overpassing the commodity and necessity of Religion and policy, to be dilated of by Divines and statesmen, as more agreeable to their profession, and impertinent to my present purpose: Concerning the Art and science Military, this may I boldly & truly write and affirm: that by the exercise thereof all Empires, kingdoms, and Common wealths have come to their height and sovereignty, and have maintained their happy state and prosperity; And by neglecting the same, they have declined, decayed, and finally been made prays to their Enemies.  
The Art Military it was, that established the Empires of the Egyptians, Assyrians, Medes, Persians, & Grecians; and that enlarged the dominions of the Romans to so wonderful greatness: This Art it was, by the which great Alexander with a handful of soldiers (as they may be termed) did vanquish infinite Armies, and did conquer a great part of the world▪ and beyond the hope & expectation of almen, did march unto the v●most parts of the Earth then known, And the neglecting thereof again, hath been the decay and ruin both of those and many other most noble Empires and Kingdoms, and hath caused the loss of all Greece, and a great part of the Roman Empire; and without the great grace & especial goodness of Almighty God, will be the ruin of the rest. 
Li. 7. polit. Cap. ●  By men of War (saith Aristotle) Common wealths are conserved, and that the Art Military should be always practised in any well ordered kingdom, it is both profitable and necessary: which Gelon king of Sicily well knowing and considering, & that people unpractised in Arms through idleness and want of experience incur danger to be subdued: He caused often in his kingdom rumours of wars, and invasions of Enemies to be raised, and thereupon made present preparation of resistance, levied soldiers, trained and exercised them in all points of military discipline, and led them forth in warlike order some certain days march, towards the sea coast, as though he intended presently to give battle to his enemies invauding; but his soldiers expecting the enemies, and when they should fight, he employed them in certain labours and travails, such as he thought convenient, saying, that in performing the same, they should both overcome sloth and Idleness, two mortal Enemies of the common wealth; and that their enemies beside, understanding how they were void of Idleness, and exercised in Arms, would never have the boldness to invade them.  
The like provident care have divers other noble kings, Emperors and governors of Common wealths had, for the continual exercise of their people in matters military, both for the continuance of their own estates, and to the terror of their enemies upon just occasions of injuries offered. But seeing at this present day the contrary, and that the ancient and true knowledge of discipline military is in most parts of Christendom by civil Wars corrupted and greatly decayed, I, for the benefit of my Country and Nation, whereunto I wish a●prosperitie and happiness, and for the commodity of you Gentlemen, unto whom matters and affairs of Arms, and also of justice, do most properly appertain, have with some labour and pains, collected and set down in this treatise, Certain orders, instructions, and observations Military, the most of which in services of divers wars under notable Captains, of divers Nations I have seen practised, & the rest by reading of divers histories, I have other wise observed: giving you therewithal to understand, that my intent & purpose is not to treat in this book generally of all matters military by land which are infinite; for I handle not therein the approaching & and besieging of Cities, and places fortified, nor the forming and fortifying of Camps, nor the lodging and dislodging of armies, nor the making of Bridges over rivers to pass over Armies, nor infinite other ma●ters and stratagems military: All which (some at one time, and some at another) have been very well written off by many principal Captains and gentlemen of divers Nations, and some of them also handled by me in some other Books of mine that I have composed, which I have not as yet put in print.  
But in this book I have begun and chiefly handled (as the Reader may see) the reducing of footmen and horsemen into their simple and single order of ranks from point to point, and after how to reduce them into many forms of troops, squadrons, & battles in the field, & that (chiefly) to the intent to enter into skirmish & to give battle with the most advantage, which of all other matters military are of greatest importance, to work the highest effects in the field, by reason that thereby great victories are achieved, and sometimes Empires, Kingdoms and dominions conquered: And for most of all those matters that I have written of, I have alledg●d many reasons to fortify and prove the same: All which not withstanding, I doubt not, but that in reading a●d perusing of this my treatise, in this malicious time, there ●ill be some found cast in the mould of that good fellow, who going to another man's house, used to carry both his eyes in his head, and returning home to his own, put them up in his pocket; Many I mean that will find fault, for one that will commend: and some (as saint Jerome writeth upon the like occasion) that will curiously search and sift every sentence, clause, word and syllable, yea and the very letters of my writing, and then censure both my work and myself according to their Mydaslie judgement; But as Pindarus answered a king of Sparta, it is one of the easiest things in the world to find fault. Sed ecquid habent melius? let them beware least in passing above the slipper, and in correcting the shadows of Apelles picture, the boys that grind colours laugh them not to scorn, who so long as they hold their peace think them by their gay and golden garments to be goodly fellows.  
But leaving envy to work upon her own entrails, & setting light of the malice of detractors, to you the honourable gentlemen of my Country, for whose good I composed and imprinted these discourses, and to whom with a sincere affection & devotion I commend and present it; I say and protest that if it may find at your hands that favourable acceptance and friendly allowance that I expect it shall, and work withal that desired effect that I hope it will; I shall eesteeme my labours and travels well employed, and myself for the same every ways abundantly satisfied.  
From my house at Badewe in Essex this first of May. 1594. Your loving friend Io. Smithe.   

The Table of the chief matters that are contained in this Book.  

HOw Captains and their officers aswell of horsemen as of forgemen should reduce their bands into their simple & single order of ranks, with divers advertisements concerning the same. pag. 3.  
How the Captains and officers are to teach their piquers to shoulder their pikes. pag. 5  
How piquers should be taught by their captains and officers to advance their pikes and make a stand. page 9  
How all the piquers of a single band or squadron should carry all their pikes upon their right shoulder and not upon their left. page 10.  
How to form a single band of 5. different sorts of weapons to march in the fields. page 11  
How Captains marching in their single order of ranks should double or triple all their ranks by right line, or increase them by fla●kes, with divers other particularities. pag 13.  
Where the ensignebearer, drommers, and phifers of a single band marching in their single order of ranks, are to be placed. pa. 18  
How Ensignebearers ought to carry their ensigns marching through a great City or Town. pa. 19  
How Ensignebearers should be armed. pa. 19  
Certain particularities concerning a deputy Ensignebearer. pa. 20  
How Sergeants of bands should be armed and weaponed. pa. 20  
Upon what licence a private band or squadron of horsemen and footmen being reduced into any form, are to disorder and breaks their ranks to go into their quarters to lodge. pa. 22  
How soldiers are to be taught by their Captains and officers to upright their pikes. pa. 22  
How piquers are to be instructed by their Captains and officers to charge or receive a charge of an other squadron of piquers. pa. 23  
How piquers should resist a charge of lances. pa. 28  
How piquers should receive a charge of lances in case the Sergeant Maior or Captains should think good to place any weapons of vol●e before them. pa. 29  
In what sort harquebuziers or mosqu●tiers are to discharge their pieces from under a squadron of pikes. pag. 29  
A contrary opinion to Mounseur de le Noüe. pag. 32  
How Captains should cause their soldiers to make of flank, or of back frunt, pag. 35  
The different ways and orders that are to be used by Coronels or Seargeant Majors to form squadrons all of piquers double as broad, or a third part brother in frunt than by flanks. pag▪ 36  
How a Sergeant Maior having reduced his squadron into form should upon any occasion, make it broader in frunt, and shorter by flanks, pag. 42  
divers ways and means for a Sergeant maior to place any overplus of broken ranks in. pag. 42  
How a Lord Marshal or Sergeant Maior their squadron being in fight should draw up a sleeve of piquers to assail their enemies in flank. pag. 43  
The squadron being form, how a Sergeant Maior should make of either of the flanks frunt, observing the same proportion in frunt & number of ranks by flanks, that they were before he made of flank frunt. pag. 44  
The order that is to be taken by a Colonel, if his squadron accompanied with sleeves, wings, and troops of weapons of volee, should happen in their march to come to a strait, how they should march, and pass through the same. pag. 47  
Where the Drommers and phifers are to be placed, the squadron marching forwards in the enemy's Country, the enemy being not in sight, as also upon the doubt of battle. pag. 50  
Whereupon the squadron form and marching forward, the field pieces are to be placed and drawn. pag. 54  
Where the field pieces with their munitions are to be placed in marching through a strait. pag. 55  
Concerning the most convenient and sure placing of the carriages and baggages in passing through a strait. pag. 56  
How to form a squadron of piquers just square in number of men both by frunt and flanks, with divers particularities concerning the same. pag. 57  
How a sergeant maior having form a just square may upon any occasion shorten the same by flank, and enlarge them in frunt. pag. 59  
How a squadron of halberds environed about with 5. ranks of piquers should be reduced into fo●me. pag. 63  
How to reduce an English army of 28000. or 30000. horsemen and ●ootmen into form of battle, ready in all points to fight with the enemy. pag. 65  
The placing of the several battles of the Ar●ie. pag. 67  
Upon what parts of the squadrons, the men at Arms, dimilances, Stra●iots, Archers and Crosbowers on horseback are to be placed. pag. 71  
How and where to arm the battles with field pieces. pag. 74  
How all the Carriages and baggages of the Army should be placed in form of a semicircle, to guard the back and Rearward of the whole Army. pa. 79  
Where to reduce, appoint, and place the pioneers of the whole Arm●e. pag. 81  
Certain reasons alleged to prove that a pu●ssiant Army that doth consist of many thousands of armed footmen, is of greater force being reduced into 5. 6. 7. or 8. battles, then only into 3. great battles of vaunguard, battle and Rearguard, according to the common use. pag. 86  
The great advantages of a squadron of battleaxes, environed about with 5. ranks of piquers, against a squadron consisting altogether of piquers. pa. 91  
How to reduce and form a battle of necessity or extremity, betwixt 4. or 8▪ pikes placed in square. pag. 99  
Diue●s causes and reasons to prove that great bands of 500 under an ensign, are more convenient for all services in the field, then small bands of 150. pag. 100  
An Example to prove that great bands of footmen, are more requisite than small. pag. 104  
Concerning Ensigns and Ensignebearers of private bands and squadrons, of footmen, as also concerning the Standard, and Standardbearer of an Emperor, or of a king. pag. 128  
Certain orders, directions, and brief speeches to be used unto harquebuziers, p●quers, and battleaxes, when they are in skirmish with their enemies in the field. pag. 133  
Brief speeches to be used by Captains or leaders of harquebuziers when they would reduce them into abroad square with distances obliqne. pag. 145  
Speeches to be used to a broad squa●e, or to any ordered troop of harquebuziers being in a strait or ground of advantage where horsemen cannot charge them. pag. 146  
Brief speeches to be used to mosquetiers being in a broad square. pag. 147  
Certain orders, directions and brief speeches to be observed by a Sergeant maior, and Captains, and leaders of archers in the field. pag. 150  
A comparison betwixt Archers and mosquetiers, and archers and harquebuziers. pag. 154  
A comparison betwixt harquebuziers and mosquetiers. pag. 155  
Instructions to be given by captains and officers to their bands for the passing of any brief speeches or word, pag. 157  
The duty of trompettors and drom●ers. pag. 158  
Certain instructions and observations concerning the ordering and exercising of men at Arms, of dimilances, and also of light horsemen Stradiots, incorporated with archers and Crosbowers on horseback, for divers purposes and services. pag. 159  
Why lances are rather to be reduced into squadron then into troop. pag. 165  
How and in what distances men at Arms or dimilances, are to charge or receive a charge of their enemies. pag. 167  
divers exercises for horsemen to be instructed and taught. pag. 168  
Into what forms light horsemen borderers or Stradiots, are to reduce themselves, with the ways how they should be reduced into the form of a semicicle. pag. 171  
How stradiots, archers on horseback, and Crosbowers on horseback incorporated in bands, are to behave themselves in the field. pag. 174  
Certain proceed and observations that I would wish to be observed in the first election, enrolling, arming and weaponing of soldiers for the defence of the Realm. pag 179  
Three principal things to be observed in all right and true elections of soldiers. pag. 180  
Concerning the election, appareling, arming, and weaponing of 〈◊〉 of footmen. pag. 1●7  
How all forts of horsemen should be appareled, armed, horsed, and weaponed. pag. 1●8  
Of what calling the mustermaisters of eu●ry shire should be. pag 205  
The curious order that all mustermaisters are to use in mustering of their ban is of horsemen. pag. 206  
The order that is to be used for the supplying of soldiers maimed or 〈◊〉, or otherways decayed, or departing from their ●●bitation into 〈◊〉 other Town or hundred or out of their masters service. pag 210  
The different placing of the soldiers armours and w●●●ons in all the shires of England, with the Author's opinion where he would have them placed, and certain other necessary advertisements. pag. 211  
Where and how soldiers that are enrolled to any kind of weapon ought to exercise themselves. pag. 217  
The cause wherefore the Author hath compose● 〈◊〉 Book. pag. 220    

Faults happened in the printing of this Book, by reason, that for john Smythe was absent from London at the time of the imprinting thereof, And they are to be corrected and read, as followeth.  
Page. line.  5 23 Put out And march. 7 18 for Armour, read, Armours. 9 32 for, the left feet, read, their left feet. 21 16 for, Captain Lieutenant, read, Captain or Lieutenant. 31 26 for opinions, read, opinion. 36 31 for, in adank, read, in ranks, 39 18 for, therein make, read, there make. 43 3 for, which like number, read, which little number. 48 9 for, forpart corner, read, forpart and corner. 48 16 for, sort and weapon, read, sort of weapon. 56 26 for, substance of the powder, read, substance & body of the powder 62 11 for, 145. Read, 143. 63 18 for 5. in frunt, read, 50. in frunt. 63 33 for, the flank, read, the left flank. 74 1 for, but one kind, read, but of one kind. 87 33 for, that their in encountering, read, that in their encountering. 88  In the margin, for 3000. read, 5000. 93 30 for piquers, read, pikes. 94 4 for rank, read, ranks. 106 27 for flanks, read, flank. 111 14 for 18000. read, 1800. 126 35 for like, read, little. 134 3 for double, read, doubt. 143 2 for sorts, read, sort. 148 33 for, and without, read, and not without. 150 35 for, narrow or short, read, narrow and short. 156 17 for motions, read, motion. 189 25 for stocks, read, cocks. 194 10 for, the pikes of such sagging, read, the points of such sagging 197 29 for septrionall, Read, septentrional. 203 16 for, into their bands, read, into bands: 218 3 for, at a great But discharge, read, at a great white in the midst of a great But.   

Certain Instructions, observations and orders military, requisite for all Chieftains, Captains, and higher and lower men of charge, & officers to understand, know and observe. Composed by sir john Smythe, knight, 1591.  
THE first thing belonging to the Art and Science Military, practised by all Warlike Nations in all ages hath been, that all Captains after they have received the charge of bands or companies of horsemen or footmen armed & weaponed, according to the discipline and use of the Nation that they are of; have first instructed and taught their soldiers to reduce themselves into their simple and single order of ranks, and to wear, carry, and use all their weapons in soldiorlike manner, according to the nature and effect of every different sort of them, without which readily and orderly performed and duly observed, with all obedience, neither Captains, officers, nor their soldiers, can in right understanding be accounted worthy to bear the name of men of war; and therefore I will first begin with the orderly reducing of a band into form to march in their ranks as followeth.  
All Captains, Lieutenants, and Sergeants of bands, are first to consider before they do reduce their bands of soldiers into their simple and single order of ranks, 
Certain matters to be considered of and observed by all Captains before the reducement of their bands into their simple & single order of ranks.  how many different sorts of weapons they have in their bands with the number of every different sort of weapon; which done, then are they to consider what sort & kind of weapon shall march in the first compertiment or division, and what other sort of weapon in the second compertiment, and so subsequently in all the rest; so as always the compertiment of armed men piquers do march in the midst of all the rest of the compartments.  
All which being by them and their officers considered, 
A compertiment of a band of Soldiers, is to be understood the number of soldiers of any one sort of weapon, as of Harquebuziers, of archers, of musketeers, of piquers or of halberdiers, reduced into their simple or single order of ranks, as of 3. 4. 5. 6. or 7. & so up to 10. or 11. in a rank at the most, ready to be reduced into squadron, or to be any other ways employed  than they are to resolve how many soldiers of every sort of weapon they will command to march in a rank; as of 5. of 6. or of 7. or more or fewer: so as they be not fewer than 3. nor more than 10. or 11: at the most in their simple and single order of ranks, although their bands be very great. And these numbers of 10. or 11. in a rank at the most, and 3. soldiers in a rank at the fewest for single bands to march in, hath been observed by all men of war of judgement amongst all Warlike Nations in all ages; and that in respect that the ranks of soldiers that do not exceed the number of 10. or 11. may in an instant be numbered by the Captains or officers, sudden casting their eyes upon such ranks, as also by the soldiers that are to reduce themselves into their ranks: whereas if they were of greater numbers, the captain, lieutenant, or sergeants, may quickly mistake the number of soldiers in rank, and so to their reproach fail in their intended reducements. Besides that squadrons how great, and of what form soever they are form, the compartments of divers or many bands, are more conveniently and certainly brought into their proportions and forms, 
Single bands are not to march above 10. or 11. in a rank at the most for divers causes and reason's.  with the compartments of bands that do not exceed the number of 10. or 11. in a rank at the uttermost, or rather fewer, then if they were of greater numbers; with other causes and reasons also which for brevities sake in this place I omit. And now all this being as aforesaid by a Captain considered, and he having with himself concluded that all the compartments of different weapons throughout his band shall march 5. in a rank, or any other number (as aforesaid:) he is presently to give order to his officers to reduce them into that number in every rank; which to perform, some one of them is first to say unto the harquebuziers who are to be the first compertiment, 
Certain orders and brief speeches to be observed & used by Captains & their officers, when they would reduce their bands into their simple and single order of ranks.  Rank yourselves harquebuziers five in a rank, appointing them the ground where the soldiers of the first rank shall reduce themselves; and so likewise the like brief words and orders are to be pronounced to the Archers, to the musketeers, and to the armed men: which being by them heard, every different sort of those weapons ought with all celerity to reduce themselves throughout their compartments into the foresaid number of 5. in a rank, 
In all reducementes either of horsemen or footmen all the backer ranks must observe the proportionate distances in frunt and by flanks, of the two foremost ranks.  all the backer ranks of every compertiment, observing the proportionate distances of the two first ranks of their own compertiment in frunt and by flanks.  
But because when soldiers do begin to reduce themselves into ranks after the number pronounced by their Captains or Sergeants, that in the first, second, or third rank, or else in some of the rest of the ranks, there happen sometimes more soldiers to fa●l into some of those ranks, than there should be by the number pronounced, (as aforesaid) and that those soldiers that came last into that rank or those ranks, 
Two special & general rules to be observed by all soldiers when they are to reduce themselves into ranks.  are upon pride or wilfulness loath to put themselves out of that rank or ranks, and to retire themselves to find out some rank or ranks that do lack the number pronounced: the Captains therefore and the officers of bands ought to instruct their soldiers, at such times as they are to reduce themselves into their simple or single order of ranks, according unto the number by their Captains or officers pronounced, that if in the first, second, or third rank; or in any of the rest of the former ranks, that disorder do happen; that then the overplus of the number of the soldiers by the Captain or officers pronounced that do find themselves on the left flank, or side of that rank, or ranks, shall presently put themselves out of the same rank, or ranks, and retire until they find a rank or ranks, that do lack the number of soldiers by their Captain or officers pronounced. And to the intent that this order may be the better performed, the Captains, Lieutenants, and sergeants, aught to instruct their soldiers that in the reducing of themselves into ranks, the first soldior that is to begin in the first rank, being placed by the Sergeant in the place where the first rank should begin, the rest of the soldiers of the same armour and weapon that are next unto that first soldior by the seargeant placed, shall presently fall into rank by the left side or flank the one of th' other, until that rank be complete according to the number by the Captain, Lieutenant, or Sergeant pronounced. And so likewise the second, 
This kind of reducement of a single band of horsemen or footmen into ranks, every soldior by the left flank of the other hath not been according to true discipline used by our English nation of a long time.  third, fourth, and consequently all the rest of the ranks are to reduce themselves into their ranks by the left flanks, or sides the one of the other, and not to enter into rank disorderly th' one betwixt the other. So that by the performance of this prescribed order, any overplus of soldiers that shall happen to fall into any of those ranks shall find themselves to be on the left flank or side of those ranks, and therefore shall know that it is their duties presently to retire out of those ranks, until they find some other rank or ranks that do lack the number by their Captains or Sergeants pronounced. All which different weapons being reduced into their compartments by the orders aforesaid, than the Captain may command his lieutenant and Sergeants of the band to draw the one half of every different sort of weapon of volee, behind the compertiment of armed men, & there to place them in the same & like order as the other half of those weapons of volee are before the armed men; so as the armed piquers shall hold the middle place of the band according to all discipline.  
And the like brief speeches and prescribed orders of reducements by the left flank the one of th'other may serve for horsemen, be they men at Arms, Lances, borderers or Stradiots, or of any other kind of armour and weapon on horseback. As for example, If a Captain or Lieutenant of men at Arms, or Dimilances would reduce his company into their simple or single order of ranks, 
Brief speeches to be used by Captains of horsemen when they are to reduce their companies into their simple and single order of ranks.  he is to say unto those that are to begin the first rank: rank yourselves Lances three in a rank, or 4 or 5 in a rank, or as it shall please him: Upon which speeches pronounced, all his whole band or company is to perform his commandment and words pronounced with the like observations as are before prescribed unto the bands of footmen, having always special regard to their proportionate distances in frunt and by flanks. And these prescribed orders before set down, all soldiers be they horsemen or footmen ought to know & perform with all celerity, quietness, & silence, upon very severe punishment.  
Now the Captain or Captains having reduced their soldiers into their simple, or single order of ranks or into any form of square, & that the soldiers piquers do stand at their pikes, the butends on the ground, and the points upright, and that the Captain, Lieutenant, or Sergeants would have them to march, they are then to say to the first rank: Shoulder your pikes and march; which is as much to say: 
Brief speeches to be used by the Captain & his officers to piquers standing at their pikes.  Lay your pikes upon your right shoulders and march, which shouldering of pikes must be done with a comely and soldiorlike grace, all the piquers of the first rank falling back with their right feet almost a foot behind their left, that their pikes may the more leisurely and comely fall to their shoulders, and then raising up their left feet about a handful from the ground, 
How piquers should shoulder their pikes and march.  & letting them fall again, they must all in an instant advance forward, & so fall into their march, first with their right feet. And so in like manner the second, third, and fourth ranks, & so subsequently all the rest of the ranks must in all points perform the like, & shoulder their pikes one after another & carry the butends of their pikes 3. foot or more from the ground, strait in descent towards the right hams of the soldiers piquers marching before them, every rank being so even in frunt, that the butend of no piquers pique may preceded the one the other in the same rank; and so even and strait by flanks that the butend of every piquers pique may be just point and blank towards the right ham of the piquer preceding in the rank before him: And so they must all with great silence and with a grave and soldiorlike grace, march.  
But whereas in this place I do instruct that all the soldiers of the first rank, and so subsequently of all the rest of the ranks one after another should first fall back with their right feet, almost a foot behind their left, to the intent that their pikes should fall the more leisurely to their shoulders, and that then all the soldiers of the first rank at one instant should raise and lift up their left feet about a handful from the ground, and letting them fall again to the ground should march forward, first with their right feet; that instruction I do give partly in respect that the same being orderly performed as aforesaid, it doth give a very comely grace unto the soldiers in their first beginning to march, but chiefly because that the leisurely falling back of all the soldiers of the first rank with their right feet, to shoulder their pikes, and so subsequently of all the rest of the ranks one after another, with the lifting up also of their left feet about a hand full from the ground, is a warning to every hinder rank presently to prepare themselves to march, whereas by not performing the same or the like leisurely and soldiorlike warning upon the stroke of the drum or brief speeches pronounced as aforesaid, it often cometh to pass that the soldiers of the second rank, are suddenly, and disorderly cast too great a distance behind the first rank, and so consequently all the rest of the ranks, by the sudden shouldering of their pikes, and stepping forward of the first rank.  
And I do further advertise that the soldiers piquers of any private band marching in their single order of ranks do in any wise observe the distances of 16. or else 18. feet betwixt every rank & rank by flanks, and 6. or else 7. 
Distances to be observed by piquers marching in their single order of ranks.  feet betwixt every soldior, and soldior in frunt; that is betwixt soldior and soldior in every rank: And this in case the ground will permit them or otherwise that they do march in convenient distances in frunt and by flanks, according to the ground and occasion.  
And in this place because I have mentioned and touched the distances that ought to be observed by a single band of piquers, and other weapons marching in their simple and single order of ranks, I thought it were a convenient place also to handle and write at large of the many and different distances that ought to be observed as well in frunt; that is in every rank from frunt to back, as by flanks, that is betwixt every rank and rank, not only by single bands, but also by squadrons and battles for many purposes, and that not only by footmen, but also by horsemen of divers different sorts of armour and weapons. Howbeit considering that the same hath been briefly touched although to no great purpose by some other writers of foreign Nations; And that if I should enter to write and discourse of those matters effectually, it would require many sheets of paper, and therefore would be very long and tedious to the Reader, I thought good to overpass those particularities as things very well known to all skilful men of war of all warlike nations, and to proceed to other matters that do require more particular instruction. 
That it is a thing of very great difficulty to set down by writing all the just and proportionate distances that Horsemen and footmen are to observe in frunt and by flanks upon divers occasions.  And that the rather, because the many and different distances that are upon divers different causes and occasions to be observed by horsemen as also by footmen, are such and so many as they cannot be expressed by writing but with very great difficulty; for that the same cannot be particularly set down but by the measures of paces and half paces, and by the measures of more and fewer feet, of half feet and quarters of feet, and other such measures; which I think no man of any experience can possibly by writing rightly express without failing or erring more or less: And that by reason that sometimes single bands are to march in open places where they have room enough to enlarge their ranks both in frunt and by flanks, thereby to beautify and give grace unto such companies; And at other times they are to march thorough Cities and Towns, where the narrowness of the streets do not give them room to enlarge themselves in their distances, thereby to make the greater show: at other times also bands are to march in the field ready to be reduced & incorporated with other bands, at which time they are to march more close, & in nearer distances both in frunt and by flanks. And so likewise being incorporated into squadrons, they are for divers different purposes, as sometimes for their greater ease to march, & to give the greater show, and to beautify the squadron, they are to march in the ranks enlarged; and at other times upon the expecting of the enemy being not yet in sight, or being in sight, they are to straighten their ranks more or less; or that upon the near approach of the Enemy's squadrons of both horsemen and footmen, they expect and doubt a charge of horsemen in frunt, or flanks, or both; or that they themselves are with their pikes to charge a contrary squadron of footmen. For all which, and divers other occasions and purposes, they are to reform themselves into divers different distances.  
And as piquers and short weapons either in single bands, or reduced into squadrons, are for divers purposes to reform themselves into such variety of distances: Even so weapons of volee reduced into sleeves, wings, and other forms, are to use some of the like, and other sorts of distances. And as footmen are for such different causes and occasions to observe such variety of distances as aforesaid: Even so horsemen of divers armours and weapons, as men at Arms, dimilances, Stradiots, Reistres, and other sorts of light horsemen, are to reduce themselves into divers different distances according to the effects and nature of their armours and weapons; and are again to reform themselves into other distances according to new occasions and directions, sometimes for one purpose and sometimes for others. All which variety & different sorts of distances and many others are of very great difficulty, to be by writing rightly expressed in their just and proportionate measures; and yet the notwithstanding it is a thing of so great facility for all good and diligent Captains and officers aswell of horsemen as of footmen, only by sight of eye and ordinary practice to instruct and reduce their soldiers upon any different occasions into all sorts of distances either in Town, Camp, or field, according to the Art and science Military; as that there is not any Captain, Lieutenant, nor Sergeants of band, that are any ways worthy to have the charge or managing of a band of footmen; nor any Captain, Lieutenant, Conductor, nor Decurion of horsemen, that are any ways worthy to have the ordering & managing of any sorts of horsemen under their charges, if they do not very well know all different sorts of distances according to discipline, that they are to reduce their soldiers into.  
And if the Captain or officers aforesaid, would have their soldiers to stay their march and make a stand; then the Captain, Lieutenant, or Sergeant is to say to the first rank of piquers advance your pikes: which words being pronounced, all the soldiers piquers, 
Brief speeches to be used to piquers when they should make a stand or pause.  of the first rank must in an instant lay their left hands upon the forpart of their pikes, about a foot or more before their right hands, auancing themselves forward two steps, the first with their left feet, 
How piquers should advance their pikes and make a stand.  and the last step with their right feet, and therewithal raising their pikes upright with both their hands, they must set the butends of them upon the ground with the points towards the Element, which being by the first rank performed with a comely & soldiorlik grace; then the second rank, the third, fourth & so subsequently all the rest of the ranks one after another, must after the same sort advance their pikes.  
And whereas it hath been of long time used, and still is by many Italian, Walloun, and French Captains, and so likewise by some other Captains of other Nations, that they do instruct their soldiers marching in their simple or single order of ranks of 5. or 6. or 7. or other such numbers, as also when they are reduced into squadron, that all the piquers that do march of the left flank or side of the band or squadron, should carry all their pikes upon their left shoulders, as ●y piquers marching upon the right flank do carry theirs upon their right shoulders; and this to the intent (as they say) that the piquers of the left flank or side of the band or squadron carrying their pikes upon their left shoulders, do in the same carrying of their pikes, greatly beautify the band or squadron in the eyes of the beholders: whereas, if otherwise all the piquers of the left flank should carry their pikes upon their right shoulders, as those of the right flank do, that it would not make so good a show, as by carrying their pikes upon their left shoulders: Thereunto I say, that I have known divers Italians, and namely Marco Antonio Colonna, Ascanio de la Corna, & Chapin Vitelli: all which three were very notable gentlemen and great Captains, that did greatly mislike that the piquers of the left flank of a band or squadron, 
No piquers of a single band or squadron ought to carry their pikes upon their left shoulders.  should carry their pikes upon their left shoulders, utterly condemning the cause before alleged: saying, that the left flank or side of piquers marching in their simple, or single order of ranks, or in squadron, could not be more beautified, then by the wearing of their swords upon their left sides, and their pikes upon their right shoulders in soldiorlike manner: besides that for right handed soldiers to carry their pikes upon their left shoulders when they are to advance, or upright, or shoulder their pikes, it doth give a greater disequality and disgrace in the performance of those and divers other effects; and therewithal is a great deal more unready for right handed soldiers, for divers other purposes to perform and use; then if they carried all their pikes after one sor● upon their right shoulders. And as the opinions of divers Captains are as aforesaid, that the carrying of their pikes upon their left shoulders doth beautify the left flank, because it doth resemble the right: So contrariwise, I say that such as do behold either the frunt or the back of such a band or squadron, shall see a disproportion and disequality in the partition where the piquers of the left flank do carry their pikes in a different sort from all the rest of the piquers of the right flank. For all which causes before alleged, with others, which for brevities sake I omit; I would wish that all piquers should aswell in squadrons as in their single order of ranks, carry all their pikes upon their right shoulders, & not upon their left; except some times when they are in march in the field to ease themselves, they may change their pikes to their left shoulders.  
Also if there were any piquers that were left handed from their youth, I would wish them to carry their pikes upon their right shoulders, and to practise and use their pikes with their right hands, in couching and making head with them against either horsemen or footmen, and in all other military exercises and actions. And because such left handed soldiers do wear their sword upon their right sides, I would wish that they should not be placed neither in single bands, nor in squadrons, upon the uttermost flanks or sides of them, but in some other of the inner ranks.  
And here it is to be noted that in reducing of a single band or company of soldiers into their simple, 
How a single band consisting of 5 different sorts of weapons should be form to march in the plain and open fields.  or single order, the Captain, Lieutenant, or Sergeants of the band, must have great consideration in forming of their bands; and chiefly consisting as our English bands do of 5. different weapons; that is, of pikes, batleaxes, musketeers, harquebuziers, and archers; and that they ought to perform in this sort following: First that they should place the one half of the harquebuziers in frunt; and immediately after them, should march the one half of the archers, and after the archers, the one half of the musketeers, and after the musketeers, all the ranks of the piquers with the Ensign in the midst or centre of them, guarded with halbarders, or battleaxers; and after the piquers the other half of the musketeers, and after the musketeers the other half of the archers, and after them last of all the other half of the harquebuziers; which band marching in this sort, the one half of the different sorts of weapons of volee marching before the pikes, 
A great advantage and readiness for bands marching in this sort, to be reduced into other for●es.  and the other half behind, both in like numbers of ranks & in one order, they are by that means always ready upon all occasions to be reduced into any form, or different forms to arm aswell the back of the piquers by some called Rearward, as also the frunt, flanks, & all four corners of the said pikes: as for example, If the Captain of the band be disposed to arm, and draw two sleeves of any one sort of those weapons of volee by the flanks of the armed men, he may then with great celerity perform the same, either by commanding by the stroke of the drum, or by some brief speech, that all the piquers and short weapons shall advance their pikes and make a stand, and having reduced those armed men into some kind of square, than one of the Sergeants of the band is to draw down all the ranks of that weapon of volee, that he would make his sleeve of, upon the right flank of the pikes in as many ranks as he listeth, and as many soldiers in every rank as pleaseth him, or as he is commanded; & so likewise at the same time & instant another sergeant, or the Lieutenant of the band (which Lieutenant ought ever to march behind the hindermost rank of the band in case the Captain do march before) may draw up by the left flank of the pikes the like number of ranks, & of soldiers in every rank of the same weapon of volee; and so likewise with the like celerity upon the different strokes of the drum, or different brief speeches of the Captain, all the rest of the different sorts of weapons of volee by drawing down as many ranks of them that do march before as he thinketh requisite, and drawing up as many ranks of those that do march behind or in rearward as he thinketh meet; and employing the rest for skirmishes, or ambushes, or other services as he thinketh most convenient; they may with great dexterity reduce them into divers different and variety of forms, aswell for the guard of the frunt and back of the pikes, as for the flanks & corners, and all other occasions and purposes.  
Also it is further to be noted that if a Captain, marching with hi● band in his simple or single order of 3. 
How Captains marching with their bands in their simple and single order of ranks should double all their ranks by right line.  of 4. or 5. or more in a rank; & that upon any occasion he thinketh requisite to double all the ranks of the compartments of his band by right line: that is by every second rank entering into the rank that is before them; then he is to say to the sergeant or sergeants of his band, Double your ranks by right line: upon which brief words and directions, the sergeant presently aught to command the drummer or drummers to strike the doubling of the ranks; or else himself is to command the second rank of piquers to enter into ●y first rank of piquers, & at the same instant the fourth rank to enter into ●y third rank, and the sixth into the fift rank, & so subsequently in the like order, all the rest of the ranks to enter one into another; so as if they were before but 5. in a rank in their single order, they are now by this doubling of ranks by right line become 10. in a rank. 
How Captains should double the it ranks by flanks.  And as a captain may double the ranks of ●y compartments of his band, by right line as aforesaid, so may he likewise double them by any of both ●y flanks by commanding every second rank to march up to the left flank of the rank before them, that is, that the second rank of 5. soldiers do march up to the left flank of the first rank of 5. and that the fourth rank do at the same time march up to the left flank of the third rank, and the sixth rank to the left flank of the first rank, and so subsequently all the rest of the second ranks throughout the band to march up to the left flanks of the ranks before them, until they be of equal frunt & in equal distances with the said ranks before them. And further, if the captain of the same band his company marching in their simple & single order of 5. in a rank as they did at ●y first be disposed to have two ranks to enter into one, that is whereas they marched before 5. in a rank to make them 15. then he is to say to the Sergeants of his band: Triple your ranks by right line, 
How Captains should triple their ranks by right line.  which brief words by the Captain being pronounced, than the Sergeants presently are to command the drommers to strike the tripling of the ranks, or else themselves with the like brief speeches as aforesaid, to cause the second and third ranks of any weapon to enter into the first rank of the same weapon, and the fift and the sixth, to enter into the fourth, and the eight and the ninth to enter into the seventh, and so subsequently all the rest of the ranks orderly to perform the like, which being by them performed, they must presently in every rank enlarge themselves in their distances. And to the same effect, If a Captain be disposed to triple the ranks of the armed men of his band by flanks; 
How Captains should triple their ranks by flanks.  that is, whereas they marched before but 5. in every rank in their single order, that he would reduce them into 15. in every rank, than he or his Lieutenant, or the Sergeants of his band may command the tripling of the ranks by saying to the first ranks. 
It is to be noted that in all reducements of squadrons into form with the compartments of bands, that the middle most part of the frunte is the highest place in estimation, and that the right hand of the same frunt is the second in degree, and that the left hand same frunt 〈◊〉 the lowest place in degree. And that the first, second and third ranks, but chiefly the first, are the places of greatest estimation for the gentlemen of the bands if there be any to be placed in the presence of their Captains to show their valours.  Triple your ranks soldiers by both the flanks throughout. Upon which brief speeches pronounced either by the Captain, Lieutenant, or Sergeants, the second & third ranks are presently to march up to the flanks of the first rank, that is to be understood, that the second rank shall march to the right flank of the fift rank, and the third rank to the left flank of the said first rank, until they be all of one equal frunt, and in like and equal distances; at which time likewise the fift and sixth ranks shall in the very same order and sort march up to both the flanks of the fourth rank, and the eighth and the ninth ranks shall march up to both the flanks of the seventh rank, and so subsequently all the rest of the ranks that are of any one sort of weapon shall march up to both the flanks of the ranks of the like sort of weapon before them: so as of 5. that every rank did at the first consist in their simple and single order they are now by this trypling of ranks by both the flanks as aforesaid reduced, to be. 15. in every rank throughout. But because by this kind of trypling of ranks, as also in trypling of them by right line, the fourth rank is now become to be the second rank, and the seventh the third rank, and so subsequently in the rest, and that therefore every one of those ranks are too great a distance by flank the one from the other, they must every rank presently upon their first trypling performed, march up until they find themselves in such convenient distances and nearness by flanks one rank to another, as the Captain, Lieutenant or Seargeants shall think requisite.  
But here it is to be noted that in case the last rank or the two last ranks shall by this kind of trypling and reducing by flanks as afore said, 
How & where any overplus of broken ranks of piquers should place themselves.  lack a third rank before them to reduce themselves unto, by flanks, than the foremost of the two last ranks shall march up by the rightflanke of the piquers, until they come to the middle place whereas the Ensignebearer with his Ensign doth stand, and there shall rank and place themselves on the right hand of the Ensignebearer. At which present time likewise, the last rank of the other. 5. piquers shall march up by the left flank of the armed men until they come to the foresaid middle place where the Ensignebearer with his Ensign doth stand, and there shall rank and place themselves on the left flank of the Ensignebearer. 
It is contrary to discipline that any rank of disequall number to the rest of the ranks should march either in frunt o● back.  And this is to be performed, by reason that it is not sufferable according to discipline that any broken rank of a squadron of piquers, or of any other weapon of disequall number to the rest of the ranks should so march either in frunt or back. How beit the Captain before he commandeth the trypling of the ranks as aforesaid, ought well to consider of the number of the ranks that he hath or meaneth to triple, to the intent to bring them into a convenient and proportionate form, aswell by flanks as frunte, which proportionate form is not only intended in respect of the distances by frunt and flanks as aforesaid, but that there be not more ranks by flanks then there be soldiers in every rank, which would cause being piquers, the square or squadron to be a great deal longer by flank, considering their different distances, then broad in frunt, which in all discipline in forming of squares, or squadrons is a great disproportion; unless that the Captain upon some occasion or accident were disposed to make of flank, frunt, that is to make all the soldiers to turn their faces and weapons that ways. 
How Captains hauing●by tripling their ranks brought their bands into disproportion, may and aught to remedy the same.  Howbeit if the Captain by the tripling of his ranks as aforesaid, should find that he had not brought them into that proportion and form that he aught according to discipline to do; that is to make the frunt full as broad as the flanks are long, or broader to any convenient proportion then the flanks are long; then he may easily remedy the same by increasing all the ranks by flanks saving the hindermost rank, (which by such encraesment of ranks cometh to lack number), to as convenient breadth and length by frunt and flanks, as he thinketh meet; which order of increasing of ranks by flanks, I have already before set down. And as the Captain may double or triple the ranks as aforesaid; so he may likewise upon good consideration and cause quadruple them; that is to make every. 3. ranks to enter into the fourth rank, observing and proceeding in performance thereof in the like sort and order as is before declared. 
Another special point to be looked unto by Captains in doubling o● tripling their ranks by right line or increasing them by flanks   
But in the performance of this before set down, the Captain and his officers, are further to consider that in that doubling of ranks by right line, or encresing them by flanks, they must take heed that they do not confuse or confound their ranks, by making two sorts of weapons to enter into any one rank; as to make any piquer to enter into any rank of halbarders, or any harquebuzier into any rank of archers, or any archers to enter into any rank of musketeers, nor yet any harquebuziers at any time to enter into any rank of musketeers, although they be both weapons of fire, because that to mingle two sorts of weapon's of different force and quality in one rank, it is a great scorn and contrary to all true discipline. But now if any man will ask the causes wherefore in reducing this band of 5. sorts of weapons into their simple & single order of 4. 5. or 6. in a rank, I placed the harquebuziers foremost, and the archers betwixt them and the mosquetiers, and the musketeers next unto the piquers. Thereunto I answer, 
The causes and reasons why in reducing this band into their simple & single order of ranks, every sort of weapon is placed in the order aforesaid.  and say that the causes and reasons that have moved me so to do, are, that harquebuziers in respect of the lightness of their weapon and furniture, are of all other weapons of volee most ready and apt to be employed in skirmish, or upon any advantage of ground to be placed upon the sudden in ambush, where they may lie close & ready upon divers opportunities to give a sudden volee, or divers volees divided either at horsemen or footmen. But I would always upon the employing of them in such actions, 
Harquebuziers employed in skirmish or for ambushes or some other like causes ought to be backed with halberds.  that they should be bacot with some number of halbarders lightly armed, as also upon some occasions with some pikes for divers causes & reasons that heerafshal appear. And as for the archers I have placed them betwixt the harquebuziers and musketeers, partly to make a separation & distinction of those weapons of fire, the one of greater length & heveth, 
Archers and musketeers are not to departed from the body of the squadron.  and in effect of greater violence in further distance; and the other, I mean harquebusses, shorter and lighter, and to be employed most commonly in the first services; but chie●●e, in consideration that neither the archers nor the musketeers are to departed from the body of the pikes, but are to be reduced into hearses, or into greater or smaller form troops; as also for such other effects, and purposes as in certain places of this book hereafter shall appear: and so likewise the reasons wherefore I have placed the harquebuziers, archers, and musketeers in the same number and order aswell behind the body of the pikes, as before in frunt, are aswell in respect of the ready drawing of them up into sleeves, and other forms, by the flanks of the pikes as aforesaid; as also that upon some accidents or coming of the enemy, it sometime happeneth that the body of the pikes reduced into square may happen to be forced to make of back frunt: upon which and divers other occasions and accidents the body of the piquers have always in a readiness as many of all sorts of weapons of volee behind them to be any ways employed with all celerity as in frunt before.  
And here it is further to be noted, 
Where the Drommers & Phifers of a sin gle band marching in their single order of ●ankes ought to be placed.  that a single band marching in their simple and single order, aught to place their drummers and phifers: one drum and phifer betwixt the second and third rank in frunt, and the other drummer and phifer (in case they have two phifers which few bands have) in the midst of the band directly before the Ensign bearer; and in case that the band be so great that there are three drummers, (which is but seldom seen) then the third drummer is to be placed betwixt the second and third of the hindermost ranks. But because most great bands have but two drummers and one phifer, those two drummers are to be placed, the one betwixt the second and third rank in frunt as aforesaid, and the other drummer with the phifer in the midst of the band before the Ensignebearer: But in case there be but one drummer and one phifer, than they are to be placed in the midst of the band before the Ensignebearer, as aforesaid, and not betwixt the fore ranks of the band; although I have seen when there hath been but one drum and one phifer, that they have not marched before the Ensignebearer, 
Where the En signebearer is always placed.  but in the frunt as aforesaid. And this I have seen used by some Italians after the one sort, and by other Italians of other parts and dominions of Italy, after the other sort. 
The pique the most honourable weapon for soldiers on foot.  But because the Ensignebearer doth always march in the midst of the pikes accompanied with halbarders; and that the pikes being the most honourable weapon in respect that they are for the body of the square, do march in the midst betwixt the weapons of volee; I would in consideration thereof, as also to the intent that the different directions of the strokes of the drum may be the more easily heard throughout the whole band, place the drummer and phifer (if there were no more but one in the band) in the midst before the Ensign bearer, and not amongst the shot in frunt.  
Also it is further to be noted that the Ensignebearer marching in the midst of his band or company through any City or great Town, 
How ensign-bearers ought to cari● their Ensigns marching through a great City or Town.  aught to carry his Ensign open and upright, and not wound up about his Ensign staff, nor yet the lowest part of the Taffeta of his ensign gathered into his hand, and leaned upon his shoulder, but upright as aforesaid. Howbeit having marched through the City or Town into the fields, and being out of the fight of the multitude of the people, he may then either wind up his Ensign, or gather the lower part of the taffeta into his hand, and lean the same to his shoulder if it pleaseth him.  
Also I would wish that all Ensignebearers should be armed in this sort following (viz) 
How ensign-bearers should be armed.  a light upright & sharp crowned Spanish burgonet, a collar, a Cuyrasse with short tasses, or without tasses, and a back with a pair of sleeves and gloves of fine mail, or without gloves of mail, to the intent that they may carry their Ensigns with the more ease; and his said armour I would wish to be of a good and a hard temper to resist the point of a pique, or halberd, and no ways at the proof of arqebus nor pistol shot, because that such armours at the proof are too heavy for Ensignebearers to march withal, and to carry and manage their Ensigns: Besides that Ensignebearers being most commonly in the mid parts or Centres of squadrons are very seldom hurt by the bullets of any pieces of fire maniable but rather with pikes swords, or halberds, upon a battle well ●ought.  
Also I would wish that the Ensignebearer should have a Deputy Ensignebearer, 
Every Ensign-bearer is to have a deputy Ensignebearer.  who should be of his own society or Camerada, 
What manner of men I would wish the Ensignebearers and their deputies to be.  and this deputy Ensignebearer, as also the Ensignebearer himself I would wish should be men of good force and strength, and therewithal that they should be men very valiant, and very sober and of good discretion, and able to speak well and deliver their minds to the encouraging of all soldiers about them; 
The deputy Ensignebearer how he should be armed and what weapon he should ca●y.  and this deputy Ensignebearer being in all points armed like unto the Ensignebearer, should carry a fair, and a good halberd, which halberd should be in common betwixt him and the Ensignebearer, to the intent that when the Ensignebearer is disposed to deliver his Ensign to his Deputy, to ease himself, that then delivering his Ensign, he should take his halberd of his Deputy.  
Also I would that the same Deputy Ensignebearer should take the like oath for the guard and defence of the Ensign that the Ensignebearer himself hath taken, 
The deputy Ensignebearer is to take the like oath for the guard of the Ensign that the Ensignebearer hath taken.  I mean he as a deputy, and the other as Ensignebearer himself: And therefore I would wish that the Deputy Ensignebearer either upon the advancement to higher place or death of the Ensignebearer should succeed him in his place of Ensignebearer, 
Preeminences of right, due to the deputy ensign-baerer.  and that during the time of his being deputy, he should have an advantage of pay according to his place.  
Also I would wish the Seargeants of the band, and of all bands to be armed in all points like to the Ensignebearer as is before set down, 
How Sergeants of bands should be armed.  as also weaponed like him with his halberd, sword and dagger: Howbeit I would not that the sergeants should wear any long or short tasses because that their office in marching with their band is to perform the Captain's directions with celerity, 
The office of Sergeants in marching with their bands.  as also to march and sometimes to troth by the flanks of the band to see that the soldiers do march strait in their ranks both by frunt & flanks, and that they do with great silence observe their proportionate and equal distances aswell betwixt every soldior and soldior in rank; as also betwixt every rank and rank, with all other orders and obseruat●ions military.  
Also a Captain leading his band through any City or great Town ought to march in his corselet complete, 
How a Captain leading his band through any City or great Town ought to march.  and to march before his band with his pique upon his shoulder: Howbeit his page may wear his burgonet, and carry his target either before him or by him. And so likewise the Lieutenant of the band being armed & weaponed in the same sort ought to march at the back or Rearward (as they call it) of the band; howbeit this is always intended by such Captains, as have disposition of body to perform the same. But in case that the Captain be very old, or have any other corporal impediment, whereby he is not well able to perform the same, than he is to march before his band more lightly armed as he thinketh most convenient, with his sword and dagger and his leading staff in his hand.  
Also it is a great shame for any Captain, ●or Lieutenant of a band of footmen to ride in the field before or with his band upon any lively or swift running horse or Gelding, 
A great shame for any Captain or Lieutenant to lead his band in the field upon a swift running horse.  but upon a simple hackney being sure of foot that will gallop a Caunterburie pace by the frunt, flanks, and back of his band, to see order observed and to ease himself upon; by reason that when Captains do in the field upon swift running horses or geldings lead their bands, it doth give the soldiers occasion to doubt whether the Captains will tarry with them or not, 
No private band neither of horsemen nor footmen being reduced into their single order of ranks or into any square aught to disorder and break their ranks until the Captain hath given command meant or licence to the Ensignebearer to lodge. etc.  upon any accident or occasion of extremity.  
And here it is further to be noted, that after all these aforesaid reducements of a single band into divers orders and forms as aforesaid, that neither in Camp, field, nor town, they must break their ranks to go into their quarter to lodge, until their Captain, Lieutenant, or sergeant do come and give licence to the Ensignebearer to departed out of his place and lodge; which Ensignebearer departing with his Ensign in his hand, out of his place whereas he before marched, and himself pronouncing to ●y soldiers next about him that they may lodge, they all then may, some convenient number acompanying & guarding the Ensignebearer with his Ensign orderly, and with silence break their ranks and lodge, and go into their quarter, or may in the Camp or Town make provision of victual, and other things as they think most requisite: And the like is to be performed aswell by squadrons composed of divers Ensigns as by one private band; that is, that a squadron being reduced into form within ●y market place of a Town, 
No squadron consisting of divers bands ought to disorder and break their ranks until the Colonel or Colonels or Sergeants Majors do come to the rank of Ensigns, and licence them to depart and lodge.  or in the place of assembly within their Camp, they must never break their ranks to go to lodge, until by the commandment of the Colonel or Sergeant Maior to the Ensignbearers given, they understand or see that the Ensignebearers with their Ensigns in their hands pronouncing licence to lodge, are departed, or departing out of the Centre of the squadron; And therewithal it is further to be noted that all the ensign-bearers of every regiment, must fix their Ensigns upright in the ground all in one rank, a convenient distance from and before their quarters, every Ensign directly before the band that it doth belong unto, 
The ensign-bearers of every Regiment must at the time of their lodging fix their Ensigns upright in the ground in the place of assembly in the frunt of their quarters.  I mean in the frunt of every one of their quarters and bands towards the place of arms and assembly. And thus far concerning the aforesaid different particularities; And now again I revert to other brief speeches, and words, and other orders, proceedings, and particularities military to be performed by Captains and officers in the field.  
And if a Captain or divers Captains, or their officers would have their piquers standing at their pikes auanced as is before written to take their pikes into the bolts of their arms, 
Brief speeches to be used by Captains to their soldiers, when they would have them to upright their pikes  as soldiers do use when they approach very near the place of their watch, or as piquers aught to do when they are to charge another square of pikes, or to make head and resist a charge of horsemen, then are they to say to the first rank Upright your pikes, which is as much to say, take the butends of your pikes into the palms of your right hands, & carry them in the bolts of your arms with the points upright towards the heavens: which being performed by the first rank, than the second, third, fourth and fift ranks, and so consequently all the rest of the ranks one after another aught to upright their pikes as aforesaid. And if all the piquers of a band, or divers bands being reduced into any form of squadron in the field, & having uprighted their pikes in the bolts of their arms as aforesaid, and that the Sergeant Maior or Captains. would have their piquers to charge or to receive a charge of another square of piquers their Enemies, 
Brief speeches to be used by Sergeant majors or Captains to their soldiers when they would have them to charge or receive a charge of another squadron of piquers.  then are they to say to the first ranks of piquers. Straighten and close your ranks, couch your pikes and charge: which being pronounced, all the piquers of the first rank must join, and close themselves close in frunt, letting fall the points of their pikes and carrying them close breasthigh with both their hands steadilie and firmly, the points full in the faces of their Enemies: And the second rank likewise straightening and closing themselves by flank and frunt, and joining themselves to the back of the first rank, and following them step with step carrying their pikes abovehand over the shoulders of the first rank, 
How piquers should charge or receive a charge of an other squadron of piquers.  the points of their pikes likewise towards the faces of their Enemies, And the third rank closing and straightening themselves in flank and frunt, and joining themselves to the back of the second rank; And the fourth rank likewise straightening & closing themselves to the backs and shoulders of the third ran●e, and carrying their pikes firmly with both their hands over ●y shoulders of all the ranks before them, the points of their pikes likewise towards the faces of their enemies approaching. And all the rest of the ranks of piquers following step with step each one at the heels of the other, must carry their pikes still upright in the palms of their hands, and in the bolts of their arms as abovesaid, but yet bending the points of them somewhat towards their enemies, that they may be seen ready in an instant to let fall the points of their pikes towards their enemies, and to succour the rank before them upon any necessity, 
Piquers when they approach their enemies, are not to shake & clatter their pikes, but are to carry them firm & steady.  or heard encounter of their Enemies. Advising therewithal that no Captains nor officers of bands do in any wise teach nor suffer their piquers, when they shall approach their Enemies to charge them, to shake and clatter their pikes, as some new fantastical Captains and officers of this time do teach their soldiers to do; as though they would make their enemies afraid before they come at them: which is more like unto such as do play the Sultan's and Saracens upon a Stage, then like soldiers piquers in the field, who should at an approach and charge, carry their pikes as steady and firm as they can possibly, the points full in the faces of their enemies as is aforesaid.  
But in this place I think good further to notify unto the Readers of these mine instructions that in the year. 1588. 
The opinion of such as do vain lie hold that piquers in squadron should lie at the push of ●y pique, thereby with thrusts and foines to annoy their enemies, answered.  I did hear some two or three of our Nation of principal offices and charge Military hold an opinion, that when two squadrons of Enemies all piquers should come to encounter and confrunt the one with the other, that then the foremost ranks of them should lie at the push of the pique and so should annoy the one the other, with thrusts and foines (as they term it) at all the length of their Arms and pikes, according to the use of single Combattes either in sport or earnest betwixt piquer and piquer. By which kind of fight of squadrons at the push of the pique, I say, that none of the ranks can fight but only the first rank, because that if they observe their proportionate distances according to order and discipline, the pikes of the second rank are too short to reach with their points the first rank of their enemy's squadron likewise standing still foining at all the length of their Arms and pikes; as they vainly imagine: Yea although to the trouble and disorder of the first rank before them they do thrust and foin over their shoulders; During which time of the pushing and foining of the two first ranks of the two squadrons of enemies, all the rest of the ranks of both the squadrons must by such an unskilful kind of fight stand still and looke● on and cr● aim, until the first rank of each squadron hath fought their bellies full, or until they can fight no longer: which is a very scorn and mockery mylitarie to be either spoken or thought of by any men of war that do pretend to have ●eene any action effectually performed betwixt any great numbers of piquers reduced into form of squadrons in the field. For in troth according to all reason and true experience, such a squadron as should think it their greatest advantage to fight in that sort, must (contrary to discipline) enlarge themselves in their ranks and distances both in frunt and by flanks, to the intent that they may have elbow room enough without any impediment by the nearness of the ranks behind them, to pull back their arms, and to thrust at their enemies approaching them at all the length they can of their arms and pikes, and again with dexterity to pull back, & retire them to give new thrusts: which opening & enlargement of ranks being perceived by the contrary squadron (who if they be skilful men of war) do come closed in their ranks both in frunt and by flanks, as close as they can possibly march pace with pace and step with step, as if they were one entire body, carrying their pikes with both their hands breasthigh, all the points of the pikes of the first rank of one evenness & equality not any one preceding the other: And so likewise the points of all the pikes of the second, third and fourth ranks, carrying the like equality and evenness, but yet the points of every rank of pikes, shorter and further distant almost by a yard from their enemy's faces, than the points of the rank that do preceded them; And all those four ranks marching or moving forward together pace with pace and step with step, carrying their pikes firmly with both their hands breast high as aforesaid their points full in their enemy's faces, they do altogether give a puissant thrush, the points of the first rank of pikes, first lighting upon the faces of the first rank or ranks of their enemies; and the points of the second, third, and fourth ranks, subsequently in a manner all in an instant, do all one after another in such terrible sort light upon the faces, breasts and bodies of the foremost ranks of the enemies that do stand still pushing and foining with their pikes in their ranks opened and enlarged, that they never give them any leisure any ways to pull back and recover the use of their pikes to give any new thrusts, nor yet to close their ranks enlarged, but do overthrow, disorder and break them with as great facility, as if they were but a flock of geese; as all men of right consideration and judgement may easily consider and see.  
But after all this it may be, that some very curious and not skilful in actions of Arms, may demand what the foremost ranks of this well ordered and practised squadron before mentioned shall do after they have given their aforesaid puissant blows & thrusts with their pikes incase that they do not at the first incountry overthrow and break the contrary squadron of their enemies: thereunto I say, that the foremost ranks of the squadron having with the points of their pikes lighted upon the bare faces of the foremost ranks of their enemies, or upon their Collars, pouldrons, quirasses, tasses, or disarmed parts of their thighs; by which blows given they have either slain, overthrown, or wounded those that they have lighted upon, or that the points of their pikes lighting upon their armours have glanced off, and beyond them; in such sort as by the nearnes of the foremost ranks of their enemies before them, they have not spaceenough again to thrust; nor that by the nearnes of their fellows ranks next behind them, they have any convenient elbow room to pull back their pikes to give a new thrust; by means whereof they have utterly lost the use of their pikes, they therefore must either presently let them fall to the ground as unprofitable; or else may with both their hands dart, and throw them as far forward into & amongst the ranks of their enemies as they can, to the intent by the length of them to trouble their ranks, and presently in the twinkling of an eye or instant, must draw their short arming sword and daggers, and give a blow and thrust (termed a half reverse, & thrust) all at, and in one time at their faces: And therewithal must presently in an instant, with their daggers in their left hands, thrust at the bottom of their enemy's bellies under the lambs of their Cuyrasses, or at any other disarmed parts: In such sort as then all the ranks of the whole squadron one at the heels of the other pressing in order forward, do with short weapons, and with the force of their ranks closed, seek to wound, open, or bear over the ranks of their enemies to their utter ruin: At which time and action all the inner ranks of pikes saving the first, 4. or 5. ranks, can with their pikes work no effect, by reason that the said 4. or 5. ranks before them being next to their enemies, are so near and close together, that they cannot with any thrust use the points of their pikes against their said enemies, without endangering or disordering their fellows before them; For which causes by all reason and experience military, short staved, long edged, and short and strong pointed battleaxes or halberds, of the length of 5. foot or 5. foot and a half in all their lengths, at the uttermost, in the hands of lusty and well armed soldiers that do follow the first 5. ranks of piquers at the heels, do both with blow at the head, and thrust at the face, work wonderful effects, and do carry all to the ground. By all which particularities before alleged and declared, I think it may be apparent to all such as are not obstinately ignorant, that Battles and squadrons of piquers in the field when they do encounter and charge one another, are not by any reason or experience mylitarie to stand all day thrusting, pushing, and foining one at another, as some do most vainly imagine, but aught according to all experience with one puissant charge and thrush to enter and disorder, wound, open, and break the one the other, as is before at large declared.  
And if all the piquers of a band or of divers bands being reduced into any form of squadron, should be charged with a square or troop of horsemen, having their pikes uprighted in the pal●●s of their hands, and bolts of their arms (as abovesaid) and the sergeant Majors and Captains seeing the Lances ready to charge them, 
Brief speeches to be used by a Sergeant Maior, or a Captain to their soldiers piquers, when they are ready to be charged by a squadron of Lances.  they should then say unto their piquers, Straighten and close your ranks close, couch your pikes and make head: which being by them pronounced, all the soldiers in the first rank should close themselves in an instant in frunt, and setting the butends of their pikes under their right feet firmly to stay the ends of them from sliding, they should hold their pikes with their left hands, about a yard and a quarter from the butends, leaning their right knees strongly upon their pikes to keep them the more firm, & should direct the points very low towards the breasts of their enemy's horses, 
How piquers should resist a charge of Lances.  having all their short arming swords ready drawn in their right hands, the points forward, ready to kill or hogh any barbed horse or horses that by chance may break the pikes and enter: And then the second rank of piquers straightening and closing themselves in frunt, should let fall the points of their pikes towards their enemies, and should join themselves close to the back of the first rank, bearing their pikes firmly with both their hands, almost close to the upper part of their breasts over the shoulders of the first rank, at all the convenient length they may, with the points towards the faces of the enemy's horses: And the third, fourth, and fift ranks of piquers in the same sort should close and join themselves close, each one to the back and shoulders of the ranks before them: And each one of those ranks should carry their pikes firmly with both their hands over the shoulders of the ranks before them, with the points of their pikes full in the eyes and faces of the horses, and bodies of the horsemen: And the sixth, seventh, and all the rest of the backer ranks straightening and closing themselves as aforesaid should carry their pikes upright in the bolts of their arms, but yet the points somewhat bending forward towards the enemy ready always to favour and secure the ranks before them: And thus all the ranks of the whole squadron being united, closed and in corporated as it were into one entire body, should with mighty hand resist & repulse any furious charge of horsemen. 
How piquers should receive a charge of Lances in case the Sergeant Maior or Captains should think good to place any weapons of volee before them.   
But it is to be noted that in case the Sergeant Maior be disposed to reduce three ranks of Harqueb●ziers, or else two ranks of mosquetiers, and those not too thick before the frunt of the squadron of pikes, to the intent to give a volee of short at the Lances approaching; then the piquers of the first rank must not set their pikes under their right feet with their swords drawn (as aforesaid) but the said two ranks of mosquetiers, 
The foremost ranks of a squadron of piquers cannot conveniently and aptly encover & guard above 3 ranks of Harquebuziers nor above 2 ranks of musque●●●rs, against the charge of Lances.  or the three ranks of harquebuziers, seeing the Lances ready to charge them, must very orderly retire themselves almost close to the forefeet of the first rank of piquers; and there falling upon their right knees, they must set their left elbows upon their left knees, the more firmly and steadilie to bear and discharge their mosquets or harguebuzes, as from very steady rests at the horses or horsemen coming in their Career within 10. or. 12. or 15. 
a Every Geometrical pace doth consist of 5 foot, & every foot doth consist of 12 Geometrical inches, or inches (as we term them) by the Rule, & so it is to be understood by the Reader in all my writings, where I speak of paces.  paces.  
And then the first rank of piquers, as also the second, third, and fourth, 
How and in what distances harqu●buziers or mosquetiers are to discharge their pieces from under a squadron of pikes.  must bear all their pikes firmly abovehand close to the upper parts of their breasts, the points of their pikes full in the breasts and faces of the horses; and so must encover and guard the shot under their pikes, and bravely repulse & disorder the Lances. 
b The order that mosquetiers should observe in charging their pieces in the foresaid action.  Advising all Conductors and leaders of mosquet shot that in this or the like action of arms before declared they do instruct & give order to all their mosquetiers to charge their mosquets with 5. or 6. round hailshot of war of the height of Reistres pistol bullets which are called by the Spaniards Perdigones de guerra: and that they do thrust between the powder and the hailshot some convenient quantity of brown or soft paper, or something else to restrain and keep the powder close together, and then to put in the round haileshot of war, & again to thrust after the same a convenient quantity of brown paper or something else to keep the haileshot close together, and to restrain both powder and shot; in such sort as thereby the powder may carry the haileshot the further, and give the greater blow, which within 10. 15. or 20. paces is of great effect.  
But in this case the mosquetiers must take great heed, that they do not overcharge their pieces with powder, nor with above the number of .5. or .6. haileshott of war at the most, as aforesaid; lest that their pieces should break or recoil, and so overthrow them to the trouble of the piquers, from under whose pikes they are to discharge their pieces: And this manner of discharging of haileshot of war by mosquetiers is for divers times and places of service, of great effect, so as they give no volee at the enemy above .20. paces at the furthest. And I do further advertise that no musketeers, nor harquebuziers, reduced under the guard of a sqadron of piquers, should give any volee, or volees of shot neither with full bullets nor with any haileshot of war at anysquadron or troop of Lances charging, or approaching to charge neither .300 .200. nor yet .100. paces, with intent to recharge again, and to give a new volee: Because that both by reason and experience the first volee either of mosquets, or harquebuezes, being charged as they ought to be either with haileshott of war, or full bullets, and being given within .10. 15. or. 20. paces at the Lances coming in their Career to charge, doth terrify, wound and kill more horses and men, then. 10. volees of muskets or harquebusses given. 300. 200. or. 100 paces distant can do. And this encovering of shot with pikes (abovesaid) at my training of Master barrington's, Master weston's, and Master Maxeies bands at Chelmesford this last summer. 1588. I did show unto them and to their officers both by actual demonstrations and reasons with divers other perticularities appertaining both to horsemen and footmen.  
But now whereas there be divers that have conceived an opinion from the discourse of Mounser de la Noüe, 
The opinion of Mounsieur de la Nove.  that in case there be any great overplus of arqebus or mosquet shot more than a squadron of piquers that is without horsemen can encover and guard under their pikes from the charge of a squadron or divers squadrons of Lances, that upon that occasion they should be reduced into square, and environed or impaled in frunt, flanks and back, with 6. or 7. ranks of piquers; and that the lances coming in their squadrons to charge them in frunt, in flanks, or back; the piquers closing themselves close in frunt, flanks, and back, and bending themselves forward with their pikes to encover and guard certain musketeers and harquebuziers placed before them, as also to resist & repulse a charge of horsemen; that then the ranks of the aforesaid harquebuziers placed within the ranks of pikes, may give a volee of shot over the piquers heads before them, at so much of the bodies of the horsemen as do appear above the heads of the piquers, greatly to the danger and mischief of the Lances charging. certainly I do think that the opinions of so sufficient a man of war and old soldior is no ways to be contemned, but greatly to be regarded▪ Howbeit when I come to consider that the same was never yet put in practice in any service of the field: and therefore doth rest but only in imagination, I will (with the help of almighty God) to the intent that the true effect and effects of the same may be the more apparent, allege divers reasons wherefore (in mine opinion) the same can be no ways profitable, but very dangerous to the whole squadron, and of very small or no annoyance to the Lances; and my reasons are these: First, when a squadron of pikes are to make head and resist a squadron of Lances coming in their Career to charge them, 
The opinion of the author fortified with reasons contrary to the opinion of Mounsieur de la Nove.  they are to straighten and close themselves by frunt and flanks as close as they can, making themselves as it were, one entire body, to the intent that they may the more firmly and strongly stand together with their pikes bend to the encovering and guarding of the mosquetiers before them, and to the resisting and repulsing of the horsemen, which when the foremost. 7. ranks have performed; then if the harquebuziers that are within the pikes in the centre of the battle, as also the piquers of the flanks and back, to the intent that the squadron may keep proportion and form, do likewise straighten and close themselves in their ranks by frunt and flanks, as the piquers before them have done; it cometh to pass that they are so close together, that having no elbow room to discharge their pieces at some kind of point and blank: the discharging of their shot upon divers accidents doth become more dangerous to their fellows piquers in the ranks before them, than any ways to the Lances; because that being so near together, every each one do so trouble the arms, pieces, and hands of their companions; that when they think to shoot over their fellows piquers heads at the Lances, they are more likely to shoot too low, and to kill some of their fellow piquers in the ranks before them, to the danger of the disordering of the whole squadron: Besides that it is wonderful dangerous if any flask, or tuchboxe by any accident should fall on fire by so many matches light, being so near together, which if it should happen by one flask or touchboxe taking fire; there is no doubt but that the same would set on fire a great sort of other flasks and touchboxes, burning and scorching many soldiers; in such sort, as that one accident alone, would cause so great disorder and fear, that it were enough to discorder and overthrow a whole squadron if it were of ten thous●●● men; although they were the most practised soldiers 〈◊〉 are in Christendom.  
But peradventure some body not experienced in that straightening & closing of a squadron of armed footmen by frunt and flanks, will say; the although all the ranks of piquers both by frunt, flanks, & back, do straighten & close themselves to make head against the lances (as aforesaid) yet that the harquebuziers that are within the squadron may remain so enlarged in their ranks, as that they shall have so much elbow room without any ways troubling or touching one another, that they may with great facility discharge their pieces over the heads of the piquers before them without any ways troubling them, or endangering the firing of their flasks & touchboxes to the great mischief of the Lances. Whereunto it is to be answered, 
An objection answered.  that if every rank of the whole squadron be of one number of soldiers, as all well form squadrons are; & that by flanks the number of ranks be of the like number to the frunt & back; whereby it cometh to pass that the squadron is a just square in frunt, in flanks, & back; or that the squadron be double as broad; that is, as broad again in frunt and back, as it is by flanks, or else that the squadron be triple as many, that is three times as many in frunt as by flanks, or more or fewer according to the nature and advantage of the ground, or of other occasions and advantages, that may seem best to the Sergeant Maior, or to the Sergeant Maior general that hath the ordering of the said squadron: then in which of those forms soever, or any other that the squadron of footmen should be reduced into; the foremost 7. ranks of piquers in frunt, straightening, and closing themselves in their ranks to make head against the horsemen charging (as aforesaid) & likewise the 7. ranks of piquers at the back of the squadron straightening, & closing themselves, & turning their faces and pikes backward, to the intent to make frunt and head against a charge of Lances that would charge them in back: & the harquebuziers that do remain within the squadron empaled on every side with 7. ranks of piquers (as aforesaid) still remaining enlarged in their ranks to have the more commodity to discharge their pieces over the piquers heads; of divers disproportions and disorders that must by the forming of this foresaid squadron of necessity succeed by the harquebuziers remaining still enlarged in their ranks, and the piquers straightened and closed in their ranks: This one chief and most notorious deformed disorder, that doth include all the rest, must needs ensue to the present ruin and overthrow of the whole squadron; that is, by 2. or 3. charges of the Lances given at one time upon the open and unguarded places of the squadron; and that by reason that the harquebuziers remaining still enlarged in their ranks in frunt and by flanks, the more orderly to discharge their pieces, do occupy so great a quantity of ground, that all the ranks of the piquers that do impale the harquebuziers of the right and left flanks straightening and closing themselves by frunt and flanks as the ranks of the piquers of the frunt and back have done, cannot possibly perform the same in any such sort, but that the said piquers of both the flanks must remain a great deal too short to close themselves, and join with the 7, ranks of piquers in frunt, and the 7. ranks of piquers in back: whereby of necessititie it would come to pass, that there would be 4. open places betwixt the 4. or rather 8. corners of the squadron unguarded with pikes; where the Lances without receiving any resistance, nor so much as one blow of the point of a pique, might charge and give in amongst the harquebuziers within the body of the squadron, to the disordering and utter overthrow of the whole squadron with great facility, 
Weapons of fire are no ways to be placed nor yet to be suffered to enter within the body of a squadron of pikes.  as any man well practised and of good experience and judgement in matters military, may easily consider & conceive. For which causes, dangerous accidents, and reasons before alleged mine opinion is, that I would never place nor yet suffer any weapons of fire, to enter within the body of my squadron of pikes.  
But now furthermore, if any number of soldiers of what weapon soever they be, being reduced into any form of square, and that the Sergeant Maior or Captains would make of flank frunt; then are they to go to that flank and side, that they would make frunt, and being right against the midst, somewhat distant from the flank, 
Brief speeches to be used by Captains to their soldiers when they should make of flank 〈◊〉.  they should say to their soldiers aloud. Frunt to me soldiers: which being by them pronounced; the first rank next unto them is to turn their faces towards them, & so subsequently all the rest of the ranks one after another: But because that by making the flank frunt, the squadron cometh to be in disproportion, by reason that the distances of the ranks of a squadron, being reduced into any form of square to march or to fight, are greater by flanks; that is betwixt rank and rank, than they are by frunt; 
How a Sergeant Maior or Captain in making of flanks frunt is to reduce their piquers into their due proportion are distances.  that is betwixt soldior and soldior in frunt: The Sergeant Maior and Captains in making the flank frunt, must straighten all the ranks in frunt and enlarge them by flanks; and so reduce them into their due and proportionate distances.  
And in case the sergeant Maior or Captains will make of the back frunt, than they are to go to the back and pronounce with a loud voice the like words, & then all the ranks are to turn their faces and to make their frunt that ways: 
How to make of back frunt.  And as these brief words pronounced for the purpose aforesaid are to be used unto soldiers footmen; so the like words for the same effect and purpose to make flank frunt, may serve for men at arms, dimilances, or light horsemen; as for example, If a Colonel or Captain of men at arms, or dimilances having reduced their Lances into any form or squadron, be disposed to make of flank frunt; then they placing themselves upon the side or flank as aforesaid, and saying to their horsemen with a high voice, 
How Captains or Colonels of horsemen a● to make of flank frunt.  Frunt to me Lances, or if they be light horsemen, Frunt to me spears, all the horsemen of what armour and weapon soever they be, must turn the faces of their horses, and make frunt that way, having regard to reform and reduce themselves into their proportionate distances by frunt & flank as aforesaid.  
And now having written concerning the ordering and forming of private bands and companies of soldiers, 
● doth behove the General and the ●ord Marshal of an Army as also the sergeant Maior general always to ●aue about them a perfect roll of all the Colonels and Captains names with the ●umber of every ●ne of their Regiments, and what ●umber of soldiers also do appertain ●o every ●nsigne & ●and aswell of horse men as of footmen throughout the whole army, that ●hereby upon all occasions they may give present orders and directions.  with divers and sundry particularities concerning as well squadrons composed of divers bands, as of single bands: I will with the help of Almighty God, proceed to show how a squadron should be reduced into form in the open fields, to march or fight, that by the curious forming of that first one squadron with divers particularties concerning the same; all such as do profess arms, and are of consideration may with great facility see and observe all such particularaties as they shall think therein worth the nothing and observing: And therefore I say for examples sake: If a Colonel or his Sergeant Mayor of a Regiment of 4000 footmen of divers weapons be disposed to reduce 2100. piquers of the same Regiment into squadron, and that he would form his squadron double as broad, or a third part broader, or more, or less in frunt then by flank; then he first is to consider of how many piquers he will make his frunt, that is, how many soldiers every rank from frunt to back shall contain, 
The way and order ●ow a squadron ●hould bear duced ●nto form in the o●en fields, either to march or fight.  as also of how many ranks the same squadron by flank, or flanks shall consist; and therewithal of how many divisions or compartments of bands he will form the said squadron; and according to the same, the Sergeant Maior must command all the Captains or their Lieutenants, 
All Colonels and Sergeants Majors of Regiments aswell of ●or●emen as of footman ought to have continually about them a Roll of all ●he Captains and ●heir Lieutenants names that are in ●heir Regiments ●ith the number of soldiers and different armours and weapon's that do be●ong to every band ●r company thereby ●o give present directions.  the piquers of whose bands are to enter into squadron, to feparate them from all other sorts of weapons, and to reduce them into so many or so many in every rank, and so many ranks by flank as he before hath propounded and resolved with himself. As for example, having 2100. piquers to reduce into one battle, and that he thinketh 55. soldiers in ● rank, and 38. ranks by flanks to be a convenient form of squadron according to the nature of the ground to march and fight; he then may make his compartments of the piquers of every private band, of odd numbers; or of different odd numbers, as of 5. and 7. or else of even and odd numbers, as of 4. of 5. of 6. and of 7. according to the greatness or smallness of the number of piquers of every private band, in case there be none of the numbers too small; which if any of them be, than they are to be united and incorporated with the compartments of the piquers of other bands; always observing that the different numbers of all those compartments being united in frunt do make just 55. soldiers, and by flanks 38. ranks. 
Three different formings of squadrons.  And therefore I will begin with three different formings of squadrons, which of all others are most ready and best; 
The first.  of the which the first is, That a Colonel or his Sergeant Mayor having considered and cast how many compertimentes or divisions of piquers he will make the frunt of his squadron of; and that the same compartments be they even or odd, or of compartments both of even and odd numbers, so as they all united into one body of squadron do make in frunt but the just number of 55. soldiers: then the Colonel or his sergeant Mayor determining to form his squadron, and seeing all those compartments of piquers by their Captians, divided and separated from all the weapons of volee & other weapons, and therefore ready to be reduced into squadron; he than is to say to the captain that doth lead that compertiment, or company that is next him, if he thinketh good to begin his squadron with that compertiment: March up to yonder ground, pointing to the same with his warder; & there you & your company advance your pikes and make a pause: which being by that company or compertiment performed; then he is to say to the Captains of two other compartments or companies: March up with your company upon the right flank, and you with your company by the left flank of yonder compertiment, and incorporate your compartments in frunt, flanks, and back, with that company or compertiment; Then the Coronelles drummer Mayor, or rather his trumpeter according to the use of the Suissers in respect that the sounds and commandements of the same may be the better and further heard and understood for the forming of battles and squadrons, than the strokes of Drums can be; is presently to sound the forming of the squadron by doubling by both the sides or flanks at one time, according unto the order of the doubling of the 3. first compertimentes; which being by all the rest of the compartments performed; I mean by marching up and doubling themselves upon both the flanks or sides of the 3. first compartments form; all marching and succeeding one another both upon the right and left flanks in a manner at one time; and so the squadron being reduced into form; the first compertiment by this kind of forming and doubling upon both flanks of the same, is now come to be the middlemost compertiment of the whole squadron: and this manner of forming of a squadron by doubling the compartments upon both flanks at one time, is one of the readiest, and best of all others, if the ground do permit the performance thereof.  
Then there is another order in forming of squadron; 
The second way to form squadrons.  and that may be termed to form and double a squadron with companies, or compartments by back, and that is to be performed in this sort; First, that a Sergeant Maior having considered which ways he will make the frunt of his squadron, he is then to command that every company or compertiment that are to enter into squadron shall be reduced into so many soldiers by flank, as he doth mean to make his frunt of, having regard also to the number of the ranks that he will make his whole squadron of by flanks: which being by his direction, as also by the sound of the Colonels trumpeter throughout all the companies or compartments performed; then he may say to the Captain of the first compertiment that he will make his frunt of, pointing or directing with his warder: March to yonder ground, & there advance your pikes and make a pause, and make of your right flank frunt, and reform your distances according to discipline both by frunt and flanks, or if he hath determined to make his frunt of the left flank, he may then say, Make of your left flank frunte, and reform your distances both by frunte and flanks according as he hath before determined either the one ways or the other to make his frunt: which making of frunt either of the right, or of the left flank is to be understood that they should turn their faces and weapons one of those ways: which being by them performed, then if they were. 55. ranks, and. 5. in every rank in their marching, they are now by making of their flank frunt become. 55. in frunt, that is so many in every rank, and by flank only. 5. ranks: which advancing of their pikes, and pause, and making of flank frunt by the first company, or compertiment performed; then he is to say to another compertiment of the like number of ranks by flank, be they of even or odd numbers it is importeth not so as he fail not in his great and general account of the number of the ranks of the whole squadron by flank, or flanks. March and double yourselves by the back of yonder conpertiment, or company, and there 〈◊〉 make of flank frunt, as that company hath done. Which being by them preformed, then persentlie, but rather at the first, the Coronelles trumpeter is to sound the doubling of their Companies into squadron by back, which being by all the companies or compartments performed and reduced into their convenient distances both by frunt and flanks according to discipline either to march or to fight, than the Sergeant Maior may give order and reduce upon the flanks and corners of the squadron all the different sorts of weapons of volee into as many forms as he listeth, of sleeves, wings, hearses, troops etc., and may back as many of them with light armed piquers, and halbarders, or battleaxes, as the number or remnant of those weapons will give them leave.  
And yet there is another order of forming of a Squadron by doubling and redoubling of the compartments upon the back of the first compertiment, which with divers others, because I do not allow them for so good as these before set down, I omit; and therefore proceeding to the third order of forming of a squadron by doubling the compartments only by one flank, that is only either upon the right, 
The third order of forming of squadron:  or upon the left flank, with divers and sundry particularities concerning the same; I say that in case I had a regiment of. 4000 footmen of divers sorts of weapons, as abovesaid, and that I were disposed to reduce. 2100. piquers into squadron of. 55. in frunt, & 38. by flanks, and that I thought good to make my compartments altogether of like odd numbers, as of. 5. soldiers in every rank from frunt to back, and the same of. 38. ranks by flanks, I would then divide them into. 11. compartments of. 5. in every rank throughout every compertiment, which united are. 55. piquers in every rank: and in number of ranks by flanks. 38. every which compertiment of. 5. from frunt to back containing. 190. soldiers, the whole squadron consisting of. 11. compartments as aforesaid, doth come to consist of. 2090. soldiers; the overplus which lacketh number to make a rank and therefore to be termed a broken rank. 10. soldiers; who are either to march and place themselves with the rank of Ensigns, or otherwise ready to be employed as the Sergeant Maior shall think most convenient. Now having all these. 11. compartments in the field separated from all the rest of the weapons; and being disposed to reduce them presently into form, the Colonel, or Sergeant Maior either leading them himself, or pointing with his warder in his hand to the ground to the which they shall march unto, is to use these brief speeches, or the like to the Captain that doth lead the first band, or compertiment March up to that ground & there advance your pikes & make a pause; then presently after he is to say to the second band or compertiment, March up and double yourselves by the left flank of the first compertiment, and so subsequently he is to command his trumpettor to sound, as also otherwise to give direction to the rest of the compartments that they shall double themselves every one upon the left flank of the other: but after that he hath used the brief speeches aforesaid to the two first compartments, then besides the sounds of the trumpeter for the forming of the squadron, if he be not disposed to gallop with his horse by the flank of the rest of the compartments that are further off behind, and to use the like speeches of doubling by flanks as aforesaid, he may by certain signs that he may use to accustom his Captains and officers unto, either with his hand, or with his warder, direct them to the doubling of their ranks by flanks as aforesaid, which squadron, with all the Ensigns guarded with their halberds, or battleaxes placed in the Centre, or betwixt the 2. middle ranks of the same being by the Colonel, or Sergeant Maior with so great facility performed, and by him and his officers straightly looked into, that all their ranks as well in frunt as by flank, do observe their most convenient and proportionate distances either to march or to fight, he then may form his sleeves, wings, squares, hearsses and troops of harquebuziers, Archers, and mosquetiers, and back as many of them with the rest of the pikes and battleaxes, as the ground and the said remnant of those weapons will give them leave, or as the approaching and coming of the enemies shall give them occasion. 
Squadrons may be form of compartments of like odd numbers, or of different odd numbers, or o● different even and odd numbers, as also of like even numbers.  Now as this squadron is form altogether of compartments of like odd numbers, so may the Sergeant Maior form the very same squadron with compartments of different odd numbers, as with compartments of ●. and 7. or with compartments of different even and odd numbers, as of 4. 5. and 6. so as they all united in frunt do come to make 55. soldiers, and by flang 38. ranks, as is before declared: which different particularities with many others concerning aswell the ordering of horsemen as footmen, I have set down by demonstration in a book which I mean shortly to put in print, entitled. Certain military discourses, and Arithmetical tables, with divers forms and demonstrations for a Lord Martial or for a sergeant Mayor to form squadrons and to reduce both horsemen and footmen into divers and many forms of battles, by me Composed 1585. or rather 1580.  
But now this foresaid squadron being reduced into the form of 55. by frunt and 38. by flanks, overplus a broken rank of 10. soldiers as aforesaid, if the Sergeant Mayor upon the coming of the enemy, or upon any other occasion shall think requisite to make the said squadron broader in frunt, that is of more soldiers in every rank, and shorter by flank, that is to be understood of fewer ranks; then he may draw up by flank, from the back, or rearward (as some termeth it) as many ranks as he thinketh convenient. As for example, If he be disposed to draw up 4. ranks of piquers by flank to frunt, he is then to say unto his deputy Sergeant Maior, or to any other such Captain or officer that doth accompany him; 
How a Sergeant Maior having reduced his squadron into form should upon any occasion make it brother in frunt and shorter by flank.  Draw up 4. ranks from the back of the squadron by flank: which brief speech or the like being by him pronounced, his said Lieutenant, Sergeant Maior, or other Captain or officer by him appointed, is presently to go to the left flank of the last 4. ranks in back, and to say unto them: Frunt unto me ye 4. last ranks, and let this word, frunt, from the left flank pass throughout to the right flank; and that in case he do pronounce those words upon the left flank. Upon which words pronounced, and the words passed from the one flank to the other, and their faces and weapons turned towards him; then he is to lead them up by the left flank until they come to make even frunt with the foremost rank of the squadron; which being performed, then of 55. that the squadron was before in every rank from frunt to back, it is now come to be 59 throughout all the ranks from frunt to back.  
But here it is to be noted, 
divers ways and means for a Sergeant Maior to place any overplus of broken ranks.  that this addition of 4. piquers in every rank being drawn up by the flank of the squadron as aforesaid, there do remain overplus 21. ranks, of 4. in every rank, which do in all make 84. piquers; of the which number the sergeant mayor may if he doth so think it requisite, draw up 34. ranks more of 2 in every rank, by the flank of the squadron; which performed, than the squadron doth consist in frunt of 61. soldiers, and by flank of 34. ranks; but then there doth remain an overplus of 16. soldiers, which li●●e number he may reserve to employ in any place of service where he shall think most requisite; but if the Sergeant Maior shall not think it convenient to enlarge his whole squadron from frunt to back with 2. soldiers in every rank as aforesaid: then he may with 59 soldiers taken out of the number of 84. that did before remain, (in which number of 84. soldiers, the 16. soldiers overplus before remaining are contained) increase his squadron in number of one rank by back, as by drawing those 59 piquers in one rank by the back of the squadron, than the squadron from 34. that it was before, is now come to be of 35. ranks, overplus 25. soldiers, with which 25. soldiers and with the 10. soldiers that did first remain of the 2100. that were reduced into the squadron, who were to be placed in the rank of Ensigns as aforesaid; those 10. soldiers being drawn again from thence, and annexed unto the 25. do in all make 35. which 35. soldiers being drawn up in length by the flank of the squadron, do increase every one of the 35. ranks 1. soldier in every rank; so as of 59 soldiers that every rank did consist before; they are now by this increase come to be just 60. soldiers in every rank, and in ranks by flanks 35. ranks, besides the rank of Ensigns with their guard of Halbarders, that are placed in the midst or Centre of the squadron: by which kind of reducement the whole squadron cometh to contain just 2100. soldiers, overplus, 0. that is to be understood, not so much as one soldier. 
How a Lo● Martial or a Sergeant Maior their squadron being in fight, should draw up a sleeve of Piquers to assail their enemies in flank.   
And it is further to be noted that if another squadron of like number in frunt should come to confrunt and join in battle with this squadron, and being entered into fight; and that the Colonel or Sergeant Maior, or the Lord Martial of the field should think it their advantage to charge and assail the contrary squadron with a sleeve of piquers in flank, than the Sergeant Maior may draw 5. or 6. ranks or more as he thinketh good from the back of the squadron up by any of both the flanks of the same squadron, but distant the length of 2. pikes or more, to the intent that by that little distance of the length of 2. pikes as aforesaid, when they have marched up, and do find themselves right against the flank of their enemy's squadron, they may have space to turn themselves and make frunt towards their enemy's flank, and to close their ranks by frunt and flanks, and with the points of their pikes to charge their enemies in flank: And thus far concerning the ordering and forming of squadrons in divers sorts, as is before set down.  
But now further, 
The squadron being form how a Sergeant Maior should make of either of the flanks frunt, observing the same proportion in frunt and number of ranks by flanks, that they were before he made of flank frunt.  this squadron being thus form into 60. soldiers in frunt, and of 35. soldiers by flank, which is by flank 35. ranks, then if upon any occasion of the coming of the enemy, or upon any other cause, the Colonel and Sergeant Maior shall think requisite to make of one of the flanks frunt: As for example of the left flank frunt, and that he would reduce them into the very same form of squadron both in number of ranks by flank, as also of number of soldiers in every rank that they were before; then the sergeant Mayor aught himself on horseback if he think it requisite, or else to command his Lieutenant Sergeant on foot presently to go athwart 25. ranks: 
It is not lawful for any other officers of the field to pass on horseback athwart the ranks of a squadron reduced into any form but only the Lieutenant General, the Lord Martial or the sergeant Maior maior of an Army, but yet it is lawful ●or a Colonel, or Sergeant Maior to pass on horseback athwart the ranks of any band, or squadron that is of their own Regiment & not any other Captain nor officer.  not from flank to flank, but from frunt to back, that is to go down by right line betwixt the five and thirtieth soldior of his right hand, & the five & twentieth soldier of his left hand, from frunt strait to back; and passing through them he is to say to the soldiers that are upon his left hand: Keep yourselves in frunt as you are, notwithstanding that the soldiers of my right hand, do make flank frunt: the effect of which his words being throughout signified to the soldiers that are next unto him of his left hand, presently the Captains and their drummers that did march in frunt before the 7. compartments of 5. in every compertiment as above is set down; are to march and go to the left flank, which now shall be made frunt: but the other Captains and drummers that are in frunt before the other 5. compartments are still to keep their places until they receive further direction.  
And now the Captains and their drummers of the compertimentes aforesaid being come before the left flank; the Colonels drummer is first to begin to strike, and the rest immediately to do the like, that all the soldiers of that left flank are to make frunt towards the Captains and drummers; that is, to turn their faces and weapons towards them: Or else the Sergeant Maior may command the Captains, or in galloping or passing on horseback by the flank, may himself say with a loud voice, Frunt to me soldiers: upon which words pronounced, or upon the sound of the drums for that purpose, all the soldiers of flank, are presently, to make frunt; and are therewithal presently to reform their distances as well in frunt, as by flanks; which by this making of flank frunt is grown into great disproportion: which reforming of their distances as well by frunt as flank, is to be performed by straightening their ranks in frunt and enlarging them by flanks into their convenient and proportionate distances, either to march or fight.  
Which being performed; then the Sergeant Mayor to the intent to give the more ground and room to the other part of the squadron of 5. compartments to reduce themselves by flank, is to command the Coronelles Drummer and so the rest to strike a march; which done, than the Captains and all that part of the squadron that have made flank frunt, are orderly one rank after another to shoulder their pikes and march after their Captains but 50. or 60. paces where the Drummers again striking and sounding a pause; all that foresaid part of the squadron, are presently one rank after another to advance their pikes and make a stand; which being performed, than the sergeant majors Lieutenant is presently to command the drummers that do remain upon the frunt of the 5. compartments that have not altered their frunt nor flanks, to strike a march; which being performed, he and all their captains must with that part of the squadron march certain paces strait forward, thereby to take the more compass of ground: and then turning upon the left hand, must draw them up almost close by the left flank, to the frunt of that part of the squadron that have already made of flank frunt: All which being performed according to the orders before set down, the whole squadron is now come again to be in the same proportion both in number of soldiers in every rank, as also of number of ranks by flanks that they were at the first; that is of 60. in every rank, & 35. ranks.  
But here it is to be noted, 
How the Ensign bearers of the first part of the squadron that made of flank frunt are to bring themselves again into order.  that the rank of ensign-bearers of the first part of the squadron that made flank frunt with their guards of halbarders by this making of flank frunt, being brought into disorder, by reason that now they are not in rank as they were before, must presently upon the stroke of the drummer commanded by the Colonels Ensignebearer march up, not betwixt the ranks but through the ranks of the soldiers, till they all come betwixt the seventeenth rank before them, and the eighteenth rank behind them; and there betwixt those two ranks they must reduce themselves into order and rank; which being by them done, then both they and the rest of the other Ensignebearers of that part of the squadron that marched up and reduced themselves by flank as aforesaid, being in one rank, have before them just 17. ranks, and behind them 18. which in all are 35. ranks.  
All which performed, than the sleeves, wings, and troops of the different weapons of volee that did before arm the right and left flanks, and all 4. corners of the squadron, are again by their officers to be lead and reduced into the same forms upon the right and left flanks, that they were before that the squadron did make of flank frunt; or else may be reduced into any other variety of forms that the Colonel or Sergeant Maior shall think most convenient; And so march forward if the plainness of the Country, and other requisite causes, do cause and permit them so to do.  
But now it is further to be noted that if the same squadron accompanied with sleeves, wings, and troops of divers sorts of weapons of volee as aforesaid, not having the enemy in sight nor near, should happen in their march to come to a strait passage; where betwixt rocks mountains and hills or any such like there could not pass above .5. soldiers in a rank; and that there were no other open way near by many miles for the Regiment to pass, but only the same; then the Colonel if he be alone with his Regiment of .4000. men, 
The order that is to be taken by a Colonel if his squadron accompanied with sleeves, wings, and troops of divers sorts of weapons of volee should happen in their march to come to a strait how they should march and pass through the same.  as aforesaid, is presently to take order that the highest parts and sides of the mountains, rocks, & hills be possessed of both sides of the passage, with certain numbers of harquebuziers, and some mosquetiers, as also of some light armed halbarders to back them; that thereby the rest of the shot and squadron of armed men may the more safely pass through the strait; which being perfomed, than he is to send the one half of the shot of all the divers sorts of volee that did arm the right and left flanks of the squadron to march before through the strait, I mean all such weapons of volee as did arm the foreparts of both the flanks and frunt of the squadron, and not the other half of shot that did arm the hinder parts of the flanks, and back of the squadron, who are for the guard of the back or Rearward of the squadron, and for divers other causes, and accidental employments to remain hindermost and to march .5. in a rank, and to follow the last compertiment of piquers into the strait, and that I would wish to be performed in this order and sort following: First I would send the compartments of mosquetiers of the right flank marching according to the narrowness of the strait .5: in a rank, and the harquebuziers of the same flank after them, backed with some light armed piquers and halbarders; then I would send the compartments of archers likewise of the right flank marching .5. in a rank, than I would that the compartments of mosquetiers and harquebuziers that were for the guard of the left flank marching. 5. in a rank, backed likewise with some number of light armed piquers and halbardars, should follow the archers of the right flank, and that after them should follow the archers of the forepart corner of the left flank, which different compartments of weapons of volee of the forepart of the right flank being marched through the strait into the plain, should march so far on the right hand, as there should be space and room enough for the compartments of the piquers of the right flank to reduce themselves into form upon their left flank, and that then every sort and weapon of volee should reduce themselves into the same forms, of sleeves, wings, and troops and other such like, as they were upon the right corner and flank of the squadron before that they marched into the strait: 
Where the compartments of the weapons of weapons of volee of the forepart of the right and left flanks of the Squadron being marched through the strait, should reduce themselves into form.  Then would I that the different Compartments of the like weapons of volee of the forepart of the left flank of the squadron that have followed the first compartments and are now likewise come through the strait, should march so much on the left hand of the plain as they may leave ground and space enough for the squadron of piquers to reduce themselves into their form betwixt them and the weapons of volee of the right flank, & that they there should again reduce themselves into the like forms of sleeves, wings, and troops that they were upon the forepart of the left flank before they marched through the strait. But it is to be noted, that presently upon the entering of the last compartments of the forepart of the weapons of volee of the left flank into the strait, that the Sergeant Maior is to come to the frunt of the right flank of the squadron if the same flank be next unto the passage, and he is in brief words to say. Single. 5. in a rank throughout from frunt to back and march after the last compertiment of shot through the strait, 
Brief speeches to be used by the Sergeant Mayor to the piquers, before they enter into the passage.  and being marched through into the plain, Advance your pikes and make a pause. Upon which his direction the Captain with his whole compertiment of 5. in a rank from frunt to back is to single the same from the rest of the squadron and to follow the shot and march into the strait; upon the separation and marching of which compertiment, than the Sergeant Maior is to say to the Captain of the next compertiment. Single your compartments of 5. throughout, and follow, and march strait after the first compertiment through the strait, and being marched through into the plain, double your compertiment by the left flank of the foremost compertiment of piquers, which compertiment being something separated and marching into the strait; then upon the same direction received by all the Captains that are before the frunt of the rest of the compartments, as well by such brief speeches as aforesaid, as by the sound of the trumpeter and drums, they are all subsequently and orderly with their compertimentes to separate them and to follow one another by right line; and as every one of those Captains with their compertimentes have marched one after another through the strait into the plain; so they are with all celerity to reduce themselves by the left flank the one of the other into the same form of squadron that they were before they entered into the strait; 
How the piquers being marched through the strait are to reduce themselves again into their former squadron.  and that is, that the Captain of the third compertiment of 5. in a rank throughout, as aforesaid, seeing the second compertiment reduced and doubled by the left flank of the first Compertiment; he likewise is to reduce his compertiment by the left flank of the second; and so consequently the fourth, fifth, and all the rest of the compartments, are by their Captains to be lead and reduced by the left flanks the one of the other; which being by them performed, and the squadron reduced into the same form of number of ranks, & of soldiers in every rank that it was before they entered into the strait; then all the shot of the different weapons of volee that did march through the strait before the first compertiment of piquers; I mean, the one half of those that before they came to the strait did arm the foreparts of the right and left flanks of the squadron, and now again already before the squadron is altogether again form by their Captains and officers, reduced into the same forms upon the foreparts of the right and left flanks of the squadron that they were before that they first separated themselves from the squadron, and entered into the strait: And even as those different compartments of shot did one after another orderly march through the strait and are now again reduced and come into their first order as aforesaid; So the different compertimentes of sleeves, wings, troops, and other such like of different sorts of weapons of volee that did arm the right and left hinder flanks, and corners of the squadron, in the like order immediately following the last compartments of piquers through the strait, are presently again by their officers to be reduced into the like compertimentes and forms for the guard of both the hinder flanks and back of the squadron, that they were before the squadron did enter into the passage.  
All which being performed, and all the harquebuziers, mosquetiers, and halbarders that were sent to possess the tops of both the sides of the passage being come down into the plain, 
Where the drommers and phifers are to be placed, the squadron marching forward in the Enemies Country, the Enemy being not in sight as also upon doubt of battle.  and reduced into such forms, or otherwise employed as the Colonel and Sergeant Maior shall think most meet, they may then begin again to march forward. Howbeit in this place it is further to be noted that the squadron marching forward in the enemy's country the one half of the drummers are to be placed upon the frunt, and the other half upon the back of the squadron; and that, during the time they march the enemy being not in sight; but upon the sight and approach of the enemy and doubt of battle; then upon that occasion all the drummers & phifers that did march in the frunt & back of the squadron must presently reduce themselves, the one half upon the forpart & hinder part of the right flank of the squadron, & the other half upon the forpart & hinder part of the left flank of the squadron; I mean more towards all the 4. corners of the squadron upon both flanks, then towards the midst of those flanks; because that all their different strokes of direction, may be the better heard and understood aswell in frunt and back as flanks: 
The cause wherefore no Drummers should be placed in the frunt of the squadron upon the occasion of a battle.  And the cause wherefore I would have no drummers placed in the frunt of a squadron upon the occasion of battle is; that they should be no impediment to the piquers through the greatness of those instruments, to use their pikes, nor unto mosquetiers, nor harquebusiers, in case that any, upon any occasion should be reduced under the guard of the frunt of the pikes to use their mosquets or harquebusses. 
Not above one Drum and a Phifer are to march in the midst of a squadron with the rank of ensign  Besides that I would never permit upon any occasion, that any drums, or at the most above one drummer, and a phifer, should march in the midst of the squadron with the rank of Ensigns, because that the greatness of them would be an impediment to the ranks to close themselves by frunt and flanks, as upon some occasions they ought to do.  
But here it is further to be noted that the squadron being again reduced into form, and marching forward in the enemy's Country, and finding the ground in divers parts as they march of that nature, that they cannot march in squadron form, and having great intelligence by discoverers, and espials, that the enemy is not so near hand as that by reason and discipline military they ought to keep themselves in squadron; then they ought according to the breadth or frunt of their squadron, to divide the whole squadron into as few and as great compartments of number of soldiers in every rank from frunt to back as the grounds or passages will give them leave; that by the greatness of their compartments they may a great deal the sooner reduce and form their squadron again upon any sudden or great Alarm: As for example, If the squadron were double as broad in frunt as by flanks, as of 60. in frunt and 30. by flanks, than the Colonel or Sergeant Maior may presently command the whole squadron to be divided into 6. compartments of 10. soldiers in every rank from frunt to back throughout every compertiment; or if the ground be of that nature, that in some places there cannot pass above 7. or 8. soldiers in frunt, than he may divide his whole squadron into ●. compartments, that is of 4. compartments of 7. in every rank, and the other 4. compartments of 8. soldiers in every rank throughout every compertiment, and by flanks, that is in length from frunt to back every compertiment of 30. ranks, the Ensigns always placed betwixt two of the middlemost ranks of every compertiment, or of so many of the compartments as shallbe requisite. All which compartments upon intelligence or discovery of the enemies approaching may in any convenient ground be presently incorporated and reduced by flank or flanks into the same form of squadron that it was at the first forming of the same; or into any other form that the Colonel or Sergeant Maior shall think most requisite by any one of the same orders of reducementes that I have before very particularly set down.  
And it is further to be observed that the said squadron marching in the open fields with sleeves, wings, & troops of weapons of volee belonging to the same, should ever at certain times make certain pauses, aswell to the intent to ease themselves and take breath, because that armed men or mosquetiers with their heavy furniture, or the soldiers of any other weapon cannot possibly continue any long march without such pauses and stays, as also that if any dismarch or disorder hath happened in their ranks, forms, or orders, the same may be presently again reform and redressed: And the like pauses and stays are to be made by bands of horsemen, for the same consideration & causes.  
But now peradventure some that may read this place of my book may say that I forgot in this place to write of horsemen, aswell where they should be placed in the field either upon the flanks or corners of the compartments of divers sorts of weapons of volee reduced into their orders, as also in marching through the strait, whether they should march half before and half behind, or otherwise. Whereunto I answer that it were impertinent to this place, 
An objection answered.  considering that here I do but only show, how a Regiment of 4000 footmen under their colonels, Captains, and officers, without any bands of horsemen should be reduced into divers forms aswell to march as to fight; as also to pass through a passage or strait, and being passed through the same; how again to reduce themselves into form; that by the ordering, forming, and marching of this squadron and regiment as aforesaid, all such as do profess arms, and that do not know how squadrons of footmen should be form, may by that which I have before set down, see, consider, and observe, 
Bands and squadrons of horsemen are to be reduced into form after the very same order and sort that footmen are.  how any squadron of a great deal greater or smaller numbers may divers ways be reduced into form, although in troth, bands and squadrons of horsemen are to be reduced into form or divers forms even after the very same order and sort that bands and squadrons of footmen are. But yet something to satisfy such as shall read this my book, I will by the help of Almighty God, in some places more convenient, of these discourses make mention, and set down divers very important particularities concerning the ordering, fourming, and employing of bands, squadrons, and divers other forms of horsemen of sundry sorts of armous and weapons.  
But now peradventure some will with more reason further demand where the baggages and carriages of the Regiment that I have not hitherunto mentioned, should be placed in marching through the strait: and how the same should be guarded; as also where the field pieces of the same regiment, if there be any should be placed upon the squadron form; and in what convenient place or places they should be with their hor●es, 
Whereupon the squadron form and marching forward the field pieces are to be placed & drawn.  or oxen drawn, and go through the said straits. Whereunto I say that in case there were 8. field pieces belonging to the Regiment, that is, 4. falcons of the Caliver of 5. pound the bullet, and 4. fawconets of the Caliver of 3. pound the bullet; I would then upon the squadron, form and marching forward, that 2. pieces (viz) one falcon, and one fawconet should with their horses be drawn upon the flank, or side of the squadron, betwixt the sleeves of the weapons of volee and the squadron, I mean upon the forepart of the right flank; and so likewise another falcon, and fawconet to be drawn by the hinder part of the same flank likewise betwixt the weapons of volee and the squadron, and even in the same manner, in the like places, order and sort I would have the other 4. falcons, and fawconets to be drawn upon the left flanks of the squadron ready upon all occasions to be drawn forward and placed, the 4. foremost that were upon the foremost right and left flank of the squadron somewhat distant or wide from the 2. forecorners of the squadron, or upon some occasions upon the very frunt of the same squadron ready to be discharged at the enemy approaching, and so likewise the 4. pieces that are drawn by the hinder flanks of the squadron are ready likewise to be placed upon the frunt or both the corners of the back or rearward of the same square, in case that the squadron upon any accident or coming of the Enemy should make of back frunt: And here it is to be noted that all these 8. field pieces must be accompanied with their gonners, 
Officers and other necessary provision belonging to the field pieces.  officers, and all other their assistants, with some numbers of pioneers, and with all kind of things and Instruments belonging to them, as bullets ladles, rammers, and other such like, as also with a large and sufficient quantity of good powder well guarded by some number of halbarders, and archers from the danger of fire.  
Howbeit upon the occasion of marching through a strait as aforesaid; then I would that. 4. of these field pieces with their powder, 
Where the, field pieces with their munitions and other things belonging unto them are to be placed in marching through the strait.  bullets, and all other things requisite should upon their carriages be drawn with their horses, conducted by their Carters, gonners, and pioneers and guarded and accompanied as aforesaid, just betwixt the last troops, and compartments of weapons of volee, and the first compertiment of pikes; and so likewise that the other. 4. field pieces that did before march upon both the hinder flanks of the squadron, should under the conduction of their gonners and assistants as aforesaid with their powder, bullets and all other things necessary, march through the strait in Rearward just betwixt the hindermost compertiment of piquers, and before the foremost troop or compertiment of the weapons of volee, that did and are again to arm the hinder parts of both the flanks of the said squadron; and those. 8. pieces marching in the order and sort as aforesaid are most ready again upon the whole Regiment being passed through the straights, and the reducing again of the same into the form of squadron first above set down, to be placed and drawn as they were at the first before the regiment entered into the straits: But in case that the Colonel being entered into the straits should doubt to be assailed by the enemy either in vanguard or in Rearward; then he ought to place a couple of falcons, 
How the Colonel is to place the field pieces in case he doubt to be assailed either in vaunt guard or R●●eward.  or of fawconets either in frunt or in back as he doubteth to be assailed, with some convenient quantity of powder, and bullets, and other things necessary strongly guarded and accompanied with some numbers of archers, light armed piquers, and halbarders, as also some mosequtiers, so that those soldiers of weapons of fire do not come too near the powder belonging to those field pieces; and in the sort, those. 2. field pieces are to be drawn by their horses and accompanied with their gonners pioneers and guards of divers sorts of weapons as aforesaid, in frunt and back according to the occasion.  
And now concerning the most convenient and sure placing of the carriages and baggages of the Regiment, 
Concerning the most convenient and sure placing of the carriages and baggages in passing through the strait.  I mean for the passing through the strait; for the placing and marching whereof, it is first to be considered, whether they expect, or doubt the enemy more in frunt and vanguard when they shall be passing, or passed through the strait, or in back and Rearward when they are entering & entered into the strait; or that they doubt to be assailed both in vanguard and Rearward: Now if in case they doubt to be assailed by the enemy in Rearward, 
divers things to be considered of, for the sure placing of the carriages & baggages.  than the Colonel is to command all the carriages and baggages to be placed in the midst of the weapons of volee that are in vanguard with some convenient numbers of light armed piquers and halbarders for the better guard of the same; but in case that they doubt to be assailed in vanguard and not in Rearward, 
Where the Colonel is to place the carriages and baggages in case he doubt to be assailed by the enemy in Rearward or in Vanguard or in both.  than they are to place the carriages in the midst of the short of the Rearward accompanied with some light armed piquers and halbarders as aforesaid; But if they doubt to be assailed both in vanguard and Rearward, than the Colonel is to command all the carriages and baggages to be placed in the midst betwixt all the compartments of piquers, I mean the one half of the piquers before, and that other half behind the carriages; every Car, or wagon having two harquebuziers or archers for the guard of them. Howbeit here it is to be noted that the carriages of the chief substance of the powder that doth belong to the Regiment be they wagons or Cars that do carry the same, 
Where the carriages of the chief substance of powder are to march.  do with their officers, Carters, and pioneers march either foremost of all the rest of the Carriages, or else hindermost of them all; or else upon some occasions half before and half behind as the Colonel upon any occasion shall think most convenient, but in any wise a convenient way distant from all the rest of the carriages, and that the same carriages of powder be well accompanied with some good numbers of archers and halbarders, but with no harquebuziers nor mosquetiers, thereby to avoid all accidents of fire. Also every Wagon or Car ought to have a cover of the hides or skins of buffs made of such largeness that the same may cover all the barrels of powder from wet, 
Every wagon or Car ought to be covered with Buff hides  as also that such covers of buff will resist the force and fury of all kind of balls and other inventions of artificial fires and wild fire, 
A peculiar property of the skins of Buffs.  which peculiar property the skins of those beasts have above all others.  
And now as I have very particularly showed how a squadron of 2100. should be reduced into form in divers different sorts, and that the same squadron consisting of 2100. armed men piquers is now last of all reduced into 60. soldiers in frunt, 
Squadrons by more than a third part broader in frunt then long by flanks, are of a far greater advantage to fight, then just Squadrons.  which is intended in every rank from frunt to back, and 35. soldiers by flank, which is to be understood 35. ranks; which proportion of squadron is brother in number of piquers in frunt, then long by flanks, by more than a third part, which by most Sergeants Majors is esteemed to be of a great deal greater advantage to fight, for divers causes and reasons (which here I omit) then any just squadrons of armed men are; by reason that squadrons that are just square in number of men; 
Why squadrons that are just square in number of men are thought to be out of proportion.  that is, as many piquers by flank as in frunt, are accounted to be out of proportion; and that in respect that such squadrons are a great deal longer by flanks then broad in frunt, because that the distances betwixt rank and rank be it either to march or fight, are a great deal more than they are betwixt every soldior and soldior in frunt, which is to be understood in every rank; 
How to form a squadron of piquers just square in number of men both by frunt and flanks  So to satisfy such as would understand of the forming of a just squadron of piquers: I mean a just square of like numbers of men in frunt, flanks and back as aforesaid; and not a just square in ground, I would take 6600. piquers, which number I would command the sergeant Maior, Maior, to draw out of 4. of 5. regiments, & to reduce them into 12. compartments, every compertiment of 5. in frunt & 60. by flanks, which maketh just 300. piquers in every compertiment; all which 12. compartments of 300. piquers in every compertiment, being reduced into squadron either by doubling those compartments by back, or by flank or flanks, or any other ways, as I have before very particularly set down; do come to be a just squadron of 60. piquers by frunt, flanks, and back, overplus not any one soldier.  
And this kind of just square of armed men by frunt, flanks, and back, hath been holden by some men of war, 
The reasons that divers men of war do allege to prove a just squadron to be of greatest advantage to fight.  and yet is, to be the most strong and puissant kind of squadron of all others, in respect that the number of ranks by flanks are equal with the number of soldiers in frunt and back; whereof ensueth (say they) upon the joining of two squadrons, and a battle well fought, that commonly many of the soldiers of the first ranks are either overthrown & wounded, or slain in the place: upon which accidents, the soldiers that are in the next ranks directly behind them, are presently to bestride them; I mean to stand over and defend them if they be but wounded, and if they be slain, then to take their places; and so subsequently every hinder rank to fill up the rank before them; so as only the hinder ranks shall come to diminish and lack number, by the supplying and filling up of the former ranks: By means of which entering of soldiers out of the hinder ranks still to fill up the foremost ranks for the causes aforesaid, the opinion of some men of war hath been and is, that a just squadron of armed men, is of more resistance and annoyance against the enemy, than a broad squadron in frunt and shorter by flanks is, I mean both the one squadron and the other being near about one number of soldiers; Besides all which it may be alleged, that such just squadrons in frunt, flanks, and back, are more ready upon any sudden unlooked for occasion, and coming of the Enemy to make of any of both the flanks frunt, with a convenient breadth; then a squadron that is broad in frunt, and narrow by flanks is able to perform, by reason that the just squadron hath no more to do, but to make of one of the flanks frunt by turning their faces and weapons that ways, and to reform their distances by frunt and flanks: whereas the broad squadron to make of flank frunt, must not only do the like, but also must draw out a great sort of ranks from the contrary flank, and draw them up to the head of that flank, that is now made frunt, and also reform themselves in their distances by frunt and flank, with divers other particularities by me at large before set down.  
But in case that the sergeant Mayor when he hath formed this just square of men, 
How a Sergeant Maior having form a just square may upon any occasion shorten the same by flanks and enlarge them in frunt.  and not of ground as aforesaid, shall upon any occasion think it requisite to enlarge the same squadron in frunt, that is to increase every rank from frunt to back with some convenient number of soldiers, and to shorten the same squadron by flank, that is to make fewer ranks; then he may with great celerity and dexterity draw out as many ranks from the back or rearward, as he shall see requisite to enlarge the frunt withal, and draw them up by one of the flanks: But because the squadron cometh to be shortened by flanks, by so many ranks as the Sergeant Maior hath drawn out from the back or Rearward, and therefore that there shall remain an overplus of broken ranks more than at one time can be drawn up by flanks as aforesaid: the sergeant Maior then must consider whether the numbers of the piquers of those broken ranks, be sufficient to increase one rank more by back: And in case there do lack number to perform the same; then he is to consider whether the numbers of the piquers of those broken ranks, will serve to increase every rank one soldier or more by flank; which is to be understood from frunt to back; and as he may with those broken ranks best perform either the one or the other, he is to do the same. But in case that the Sergeant Maior shall see that the armed men of those broken ranks do lack number to perform as well that by flank, as the other by back (as aforesaid,) he then is to place them in the rank of Ensigns, or otherwise to employ them in other services as he shall think most requisite: The particularities of all which with many more I have before set down at large, and therefore it were superfluous to particular the same again. And now as I have form this foresaid battle and just square of 60. piquers in frunt, flanks, and back, which in all do amount to 6600. men, with divers other requisite matters: Even so by the like orders of reducement, If a Lord Martial or a Sergeant Maior Maior, have 4000 or 5000. yea or 10000 or more or fewer piquers to reduce into one body of squadron, he may reduce them into a battle of a third part broader in frunt then by flanks; or double as broad or more in frunt then by flanks; or otherwise as he thinketh most convenient: As for example; If he have 5355. piquers, and that he would reduce them all into one squadron, double as broad or more by frunt then by flanks, as of 105. piquers in frunt, and but of 51. ranks by flanks; and that he would reduce his squadron into form, by compartments throughout of 5. in a rank; he shall then find that 21. compertimentes reduced into squadron by flank or flanks as aforesaid, will form that squadron, of 105. piquers in every rank from frunt to back, and of 51. ranks by flanks.  
Or if the Sergeant Maior, be disposed to form the same squadron of the like number of 5355. piquers with greater compartments as of 7. in every compertiment throughout from frunt to back, that thereby he may form his squadron with the fewer compertimentes; he may then command all the Captains or leaders of the piquers to reduce every one of their compertimentes into 7. in a rank throughout from frunt to back; and then he shall find that 15. such compartments or divisions of 7. in a rank throughout every compertiment reduced into squadron either by the flanks the one of the other, or by both flanks subsequently all at one time, (as I have in the beginning of this project of squadrons very particularly declared) do make just 105. piquers in frunt, and 51. ranks by flank, which is more than double as broad in frunt, then long by flanks.  
But because peradventure there are some professing arms not knowing how squadrons should be formed that will imagine, 
The orders and ways of reducing of 3000. or 4000 or of. 10000 or of any greater number of piquers into one body of squadron, are all one saving that the compartments are to be made longer by flanks.  that it is a matter of far greater difficulty to form a squadron of 10000 or 12000. piquers, or of greater numbers, then of 3000. or 4000 Thereunto I say, that the orders and ways of reducing of 3000. or 4000 or of 10000 or any greater numbers into one body of squadron is all one, saving that the compertimentes or divisions of piquers, or of piquers and short weapons to form great squadrons must be longer by flanks, than the compertimentes of small squadrons are: and therefore whereas the number of piquers of one band, or company are sufficient to make a complete compertiment of number of piquers by frunt, as of 5. 6. 7. or any such even or odd numbers, not exceeding 10. or 11. as also of numbers of ranks convenient by flanks to begin the squadron withal; and that so likewise the piquers of other such single bands are able to perform the like, being reduced by the flanks the one of the other as aforesaid, whereof it should come to pass that such small squadrons should be composed of the compartments of single bands by themselves; yet great squadrons or battles double as broad in frunt, as long by flanks, or just squares, or any other forms, must be composed of compertimentes although of like numbers in frunt as aforesaid: yet much longer by flanks, which to perform, because no one band have piquers enough to ma●e a compertiment of so great a number as is requisite with celerity to form so great a squadron; the Sergeant Mayor in that case is to command the piquers of 2. bands presently to be reduced into one compertiment, and so likewise of other bands, to the intent that by such great compartments he may with the more celerity form his squadron; in such sort, as if a Lord Martial or a Sergeant Maior Maior, were disposed to form and reduce his squadron of 10000 or 12000. piquers, or any greater, or smaller numbers into one squadron or battle; and that he would form the same double as broad by frunt as long by flanks; he may by the like order of reducing of compertimentes of greater numbers by flanks, perform the same with as great facility, as he did in the reducing of the other squadrons of smaller numbers with the compartments of single bands into form.  
And therefore if a Sergeant Maior Maior would form one battle of above 10000 piquers, and that he would make them double as broad or more in frunt then long by flanks: As for example, of 143. in frunt, and of 71. ranks by flanks; he is first to consider how many compartments of even and odd numbers will make that frunt, and he shall find that 17. compartments of 8. soldiers in every rank from frunt to back, and of 71. ranks by flanks in every compertiment reduced into squadron by flank or flanks (as I have very particularly in my first forming of squadrons before declared) do make the squadron in frunt 136. soldiers, and then drawing up another compertiment of odd number, as of 7. soldiers in every rank throughout the whole compertiment from frunt to back, in all are 17. compartments of even numbers of 8. and one of 7. which are odd, which in all are 18. compartments. All which divisions reduced into squadron by flanks as aforesaid, the whole squadron so form, doth come to be of 143. soldiers in frunt, and 71. ranks by flanks, which in all do make 10153. soldiers.  
But now whereas all these squadrons before reduced and described do consist only of piquers with a few halberdiers for the guard of the Ensigns, 
The chief causes why the Italians and Spaniards, have of late used squadrons altogether of pikes.  which hath been altogether used of late years by the Italians & Spaniards in respect (as I have heard them say) that such squadrons all of one weapon are mor readily reduced into squadron, then of two different weapons, and therewithal more beautiful and terrible in the sight of the Enemy in show, through the equality of the length of the pikes, then if there were many ranks of short weapons within the pikes, which through the shortness of the weapons would make the squadron to show unto the Enemy as though there were a void place without any soldiers in the midst of the pikes: Yet because many years passed I have in France seen the Sergeant's Majors of the Suissers reduce certain ranks of halberdiers within their pikes, thereby according to discipline to strengthen their battles aswell against the charges of horsemen as against squadrons of footmen piquers: I will here (with the help of Almighty God) set down and show how a squadron of halberdiers or battleaxes, environed or impaled about with 5. ranks of piquiers in frunt, flanks and back, should be reduced into a squadron broader by a third part in frunt and back, 
How a squadron of halberdiers environed about, with 5. ranks of piquers, should be reduced into form.  then long by flanks: which is to be performed in this sort following, that is, Incase that I have .1500. armed battleaxes, or halberdiers, and that I were disposed to reduce them into .50 in frunt, and .30. by flanks, and that I would divide that whole number into .10. compartments of .5. battleaxes in every rank throughout every compertiment: so as every compertiment from frunt to back should contain 150. battleaxes; Or that I were disposed to command the .1500. battleaxes to be reduced into .5. compartments of 10. soldiers in every rank throughout every compertiment from frunt to back, that is of 300. soldiers in every compertiment, the same being by the captains and officers performed, I then appointing the ground where I would make the frunt of the squadron, would command the Captains or leaders of every compertiment either of .5. if the compartments be all of .5. or of .10. if they be of .10. soldiers throughout every compertiment to march up, the one by the flank of the other, until they come all to make one equal frunt in their just & proportionate distances from frunt to back: which being performed than I would command two compartments all of piquers, each one of them of .150. marching .5. in a rank to be drawn up, the one compertiment of .150. close by the right flank of the battleaxes: and the other compertiment of the like number in like sort close by the left flank of the battleaxes until the foremost ranks of both those compartments of piquers upon both flanks be of equal frunt with the frunt of the battleaxes, and their last rank equal with the last rank of the battleaxes, which being performed, then of 50. battleaxes that they were in frunt before, now by the conjoining and reducing of those 2. compartments of piquers upon the two flanks as aforesaid, the squadron is come to be of 60. soldiers in every rank from frunt to back; which performed, then would I command 300. piquers reduced into 60. ranks of 5. in every rank to be drawn close by the frunt of the squadron of battleaxes & piquers before reduced, even from the one flank and corner to the other: And at the very same instant, I would command 60▪ ranks of piquers more of 5. in every rank to be drawn close by the back, and Rearward of the same squadron: which being performed, then aswell the 60. ranks of piquers 5. in a rank in frunt, as the 60. ranks of piquers 5. in a rank in back, are either upon the sound of the trumpet, or the stroke of drums to turn their faces and weapons, and to make of flank frunt: I mean that ways that the squadron of battleaxes, and the piquers on the flanks do make frunt, and therewithal presently to reform themselves in their distances: so as of 60. ranks of 5. in every rank that the same compertiment of piquers that was reduced in frunt was before, it is now by making of flank frunt as aforesaid, become to be of 5. ranks of 60. soldiers in every rank: And so likewise the aforesaid compartments of the like number of 300. piquers of 5. in every rank reduced upon the back of the squadron, by making of flank frunt, towards the squadron of battleaxes and piquers, are now likewise become to be 5. ranks by flank, and 60. in every rank. All which being performed the squadron of battleaxes doth come to be environed or empaled with 5. ranks of piquers in frunt, flanks, and back, the whole squadron containing in frunt 60. soldiers, & by flanks 40. ranks.  
And now this squadron being thus form; then would I reduce all the different sorts of weapons of volee into their most convenient forms of forlorn hopes, of sleeves, of wings, of hearses, of troops, and other forms, according to the nature and effect of every different sort of weapon, and as the coming of the enemy should require, or as the ground or grounds would permit, having therewithal regard as well to arm the back or rearward of the squadron with weapons of volee, as to arm the frunt and flanks. And as I have very particularly showed how a squadron of Halberdiers or battleaxes, environed about with 5. ranks of piquers should be reduced into the form above described, and therewithal said that the same should be armed in frunt, flanks and back, with weapons of volee of divers sorts, so would I if I had convenient numbers of horsemen of divers armours and weapons, arm the same squadron, and sleeves, & wings of weapons of volee, with horsemen in their due & most convenient places and forms.  
But because I do think that it shall be a far greater instruction for such Gentlemen of our Nation, as do not know and yet are willing and desirous to learn how divers squadrons or battles of footmen with their weapons of volee and field pieces ought to be armed with many hearses, squares, and troops of horsemen of divers sorts of armours and weapons, and those conveniently placed in the large and open fields to give battle and fight with the Enemy, 
How to reduce an English Army of 28000. or .3000. horsemen and footmen into form of battle, ready in all points to fight with the Enemy.  with their most advantage, then to place only one squadron of footmen with their Weapons of volee, and to arm the same with horsemen of divers sorts, I do for example say, that if there were in the enemy's Country 28000. or 30000. horsemen & footmen of our English Nation, well sorted, armed, weaponed, and exercised, according to the nature and effect of every different sort of weapon: And that the same Army of 28000. did consist of the different weapons and numbers under written, that is of 4500 piquers, 8500. battleaxes, or halberdiers, of 10000 weapons of volee, of the which I would have 7000. good archers, 1500. mosquetiers, and 1500. harquebuziers; Of horsemen also I would have 5000. of the which there should be 240. men at Arms, 480. dimilances, 1680. Stradiots, 1300. archers on horseback, and 1300. crosbowers on horseback; and all those aswell horsemen as footmen sorted and divided into their different proportions and numbers under their standards, Ensigns, pennons and Guydons, as also under their Colonels, Captains, Conductors, and other higher and lower men of charge and officers; and that I were by the commandment and appointment of the Lord Lieutenant General to give order and reduce the said Army into a form of battle, as if it were presently to fight with the enemy, I would then take of those 8500. battleaxes or halberdiers, 6000. and out of the 4500. piquers I would take 3600. and would divide and reduce all those numbers of piquers and battleaxes into 3. battles, 
How many battle's the whole Army, should be divided and reduced into.  that is, into a vanguard, a battle, & a Rearguard, or rather into four battles, that is into a vanguard, a battle, and a Rearguard, and into a fourth which I would term and call by the name of an a Rereregardrereward: every one of which four battles should consist of 1500. armed halberdiers or battleaxes, and of 900. armed piquers, which are just 2400. piquers and battleaxes in each battle: And as for the overplus of the whole number of the halberdiers or battleaxes, which in all do amount to 2500. as also the overplus of the piquers which are 900. (none of both which numbers are to enter into the squadrons afore mentioned) I would reserve to be employed in such other services as hereafter shall be mentioned: And I would that each one of the said 4. battles should contain 60. soldiers in every rank from frunt to back and 40. ranks by flanks: And that all the battleaxes should be environed and empaled in frunt, flanks and back, with 5. ranks of piquers, even in the very same form and sort that I have before particularly reduced and form the last squadron before described.  
But because divers squadrons being reduced into form in the open fields where battles most conveniently are to be fought, are to be placed in divers sorts, as sometimes all in a manner of one equal frunt with their sleeves and wings and other forms of weapons of volee, and sometimes also the vanguard, advanced a good distance before and nearer to the enemy than the battle and Rearguard, who are in wings more retired, ready upon all needful occasions to secure and aid the foremost battle: And at other times the vanguard, and Reregard advanced beyond and nearer to the enemy than the principal battle, which remaineth either in wing retired, or otherwise placed according to the nature of the ground and coming of the enemy, or according to some other order and commandment of the General, ready upon all occasions to secure the other two battles, that are ready to enter into fight: So would I place those foresaid 4. battles in this sort following.  
First, 
The placing of the several battles of the Army.  I would place the vanguard and Rearguard both of one equal frunt, but yet so far distant the one from the other, as that there might be ground & place enough betwixt them to reduce so many troops, sleeves, wings, and other forms of all the different sorts of weapons of volee footmen, belonging to those two battles, as aught to be (according to the disposition of the ground and coming of the Enemy) reduced and placed upon the outer flanks and corners of those 2. battles: And I would that of the 2500. halberdiers before reserved and not placed, one thousand divided into 2. parts of 500 halberdiers in each part should be placed in many little societies and troops of ten halberdiers in every society, some in guard of the field pieces belonging to those two battles, and all the rest behind in Rearward at the backs of the troops and wings of the weapons of volee, ready upon any occasion to secure them and to annoy the enemy: I mean that the said 1000 halbarders divided into 2. parts of 500 in each part, that the one 500 divided and placed in their little troops as aforesaid, should be for the succour and guard of the weapons of volee of the vaungard, and the other 500 should be for the succour & guard of the weapons of volee of the Rereguard, which performed, then would I place the other two squadrons of battle and a Rereregardrereward in two wings, but not so far forward as the hindermost ranks of the two foremost battles by 150. paces or more, with all their different sorts of weapons of volee, reduced into their most convenient forms, with one thousand Halberdiers also taken out of the 1500. yet remaining unplaced, equally divided 500 to each battle for the guard of the field pieces and succour of the weapons of volee as is before more at large set down: And those two hindermost battles I would also place of one equal frunt, that is, the one as far forward as the other, but so far separated and distant the one from the other, and so far without and in wing, the one on the right hand, and the other on the left hand of the two foremost battles, as that all the different sorts of weapons of volee belonging to the two inner flanks of those two hindermost squadrons, might not only have room enough to be reduced into their most convenient forms, according to the nature & different dispositions and effects of every sort of them, but also in such sort, as that both those two hindermost battles with all their weapons of volee might (without any impediment of the two foremost battles and their weapons of volee, or of any their hearses, troops, or squares of horsemen) have the coming of the enemy's battles, and squares, and troops of horsemen, so apparent and clear in their sights, as that they might secure and aid the said two foremost battles upon all needful and requisite occasions and causes.  
All which reducements of those foresaid 4. battles, being by the Colonels, Sergeant majors, Captains and other officers with great order and celerity performed: then I having such convenient numbers of men at arms, of dimilances, of Stradiots, of Archers and Crosbowers on horseback (as are before particularly set down) to arm the flanks of the aforesaid four battles: I would first give order that the 240. men at Arms should be divided into 4. wings, that is into 60. men at Arms in each wing, every which number of 60. men at Arms, I would reduce either into 3. ranks of 20. in every rank, 
How & where the men at Arms should be ordered and placed.  or else into 4. ranks of 15. in every rank, and would place two of those hearses or broad squares of men at Arms, the one even by flank and right over against the midst of the right flank of the vauntguarde, and the other broad square or hearse of men at Arms in like sort, even by flank and right over against the midst of the left flank of the Rearguard; And so likewise in the very same order I would place the other two broad squares of men at Arms, the one by flank right over against the midst of the right flank of the principal battle, and the other broad square by flank, right over against the midst of the left flank of the a Rereregardrereward.  
But yet it is to be understood by this before written that I would place all those 4. hearses or broad squares of men at Arms, so far distant in wing from all the flanks of those foresaid 4. Battles, and so far wide and clear from all the Sleeves, Wings, and Troops of the Weapons of Volee footmen, as that those hearses of men at Arms might upon all good occasions offered, give a charge upon the Enemy, be they horsemen or footmen without any ways troubling the Weapons of volee, or receiving any trouble or let by the Weapons of Volee to give their charges with great order: And therewithal that upon their charges given, they may retire to give new charges without disordering their own weapons of volee, or any ways troubling the ranks of their own squadrons of armed footmen.  
The dimilances also belonging to those men at Arms (which according to discipline ought to be in number double as many as the men at Arms) 
The ordering and placing of the dimilances.  which is that the men at Arms being 240. the dimilances ought to be 480. which number 480. Lances, I would divide into 4. broad squares or hearses, of 120. in every hearse, every which number of 120. dimilances, I would reduce either ●nto 4. ranks of 30. in every rank, or else into 5. ranks of 24. Lances in every rank, and would place two of those wings, the one by flank in a manner even with the right flank of the hearse or wing of the men at Arms reduced upon the right flank of the vanguard, and the other wing of dimilances in a manner even by flank, with the left flank of the wing of the men at arms that are reduced upon the left flank of the rearguard: But yet both those two wings of dimilances I would place a little advanced more forward than the wings of the men at Arms, and so far distant by flank from both the foresaid wings of the men at Arms, as that there might be ground and room enough betwixt them, for six little troops or societies, I mean two troops or societies of archers on horseback, and 4. troops of Crosbowers on horseback of 10. in every society, to place themselves in their troops in convenient distances separated and obliqne each one troop from the other, ready upon any charge by the Lances or men at Arms given or unto them by the Enemy offered, to gallop by the flanks of the Lances or of the men at Arms, but something more back and in Rearward of them, and to give their volees of quarrels and arrows at the enemy, before the Lances or men at Arms should come to join and shock with the enemy's horsemen, or charge their footmen, or otherwise to give their volees at any squadrons or troops of horsemen or footmen, according to any other order and commandment unto them by their superiors given.  
And in like sort as I have placed those 2. wings of dimilances with their troops of Crosbowers and archers on horseback betwixt them and the flanks of the 2. foremost wings of men at Arms as aforesaid; Even so would I in the very same sort place the other two wings of dimilances of 120. in each wing reduced, either into 4 ranks of 30. in every rank, or else into 5. ranks of 24▪ in every rank, almost even and right over against, saving a little more advanced forward, than the flanks of the two hindermost wings of the men at Arms, that are reduced the one upon the right flank of the principal battle, and the other upon the left flank of the a Rereregardrereward, with the like numbers of troops or societies of Crosbowers & archers on horseback betwixt them, (every little troop of those weapons of volee separated and obliqne in distances the one from the other,) as are reduced and placed betwixt the flanks of the. 4. foremost wings of men at arms and dimilances. All which with great order being performed, then of all the rest of the numbers of Stradiots, 
The ordering and placing of the Stradiots, and Archers, & Crosbowers on horseback.  of archers on horseback, and Crosbowers on horseback, which in all do amount to 4040. I would take out 60. stradiots 40. Crosbowers, & 40. archers on horseback, which are in all 140. horsemen, which numbers I would reserve for such other employments as hereafter shallbe mentioned, and would divide the rest which in all are 3900. stradiots, Crosbowers and archers on horseback into 3. divisions or parts that is into. 1300. in each division, in every which. 1300. I would there should be like numbers of every one of those 3. foresaid different sorts of weapons, or as near thereabouts as they could be divided: which done, then would I appoint one of those. 3. parts of different sorts of light horsemen, which are in number 1300. to arm the right flank of the wing of dimilances that are upon the right flank of the men at Arms which do arm the right flank of the vanguard. And I would give order to all the Captains & Conductors of all the aforesaid light horsemen men of the first 1300. that they should divide and reduce all the numbers of their stradiots, of Crosbowers and archers on horseback into little troops and societies of tens & fifteen in every troop, and that every society and troop should be of distinct and like weapons by themselves, and that every one of those societies should be lead by the heads and chief of their societies, & that all the troops of stradiots Crosbowers and archers on horseback, should be placed and advanced in wing more further forward towards the Enemy, than the hearse or wing of dimilances: And I would also that all the societies of the weapons of volee, I mean the archers and Crosbowers on horseback, should be placed & advanced before and nearer to the Enemy by some 10. 15. or 20. paces, than the troops and societies of stradiots, and that the troops of archers should not march altogether by themselves, without any troops of Crosbowers amongst or betwixt them, in respect that they are different kinds of weapons, but I would that the troops of archers and Crosbowers should march in their troops separated, but yet in their troops intermingled about 15. or. 20. paces distant one troops from another, which is to be understood a troop of archers and a troop of Crosbowers, and a troop of archers & a troop of Crosbowers and so the rest, some troops fifteen, some twenty paces one from another and those not all of one equal frunt, but obliqne the one to the other, I mean some advanced further forward towards the Enemy, and others more backward in wing and Rearguard Retired; And that I would to the intent that when the foremost societies and troops of weapons of volee, had given their volees of quarrels and arrows either at horsemen, or footmen their Enemies, and that they were casting about again and retiring to give place to other troops of weapons of volee to second and succeed them: that then some other troops of weapons of volee that are in wing Reregard of them, should in their troops put spurs to their horses and advance themselves forward and second and supply their fellows places retired, with new volees. And I would also that every three societies of Crosbowers and Archers on horseback, should have one troop of 10. of 15. of 20. or 25. stradiots with their double headed Lances continually upon all charges and other services to attend upon them in Reregard, some 15. or 20. paces distant, ready upon any occasion to advance themselves forward and secure them, as also upon the disordering or overthrow of the Enemy to follow the Chase, and do execution upon their Enemies disordered or broken, be they horsemen or footmen.  
And I would that no society nor troop of Archers nor Crosbowers on horseback should be under the number of 10. nor above the number of 15. nor that any troop of Stradiots should exceed the number of 25. nor be under the number of 10. And to the intent that every troop of Stradiots should know upon which 3. troops of Crosbowers and Archers they should attend, as also that every 3. troops of Archers, and Crosbowers should give their charges and volees and make their Retraites, and work all other effects in the field together, it were convenient that every 4. troops of stradiots, archers, and Crosbowers on horseback, and their Conductors, should always lodge in their quarters in Camp together, but I mean not that the soeieties of archers, of Crosbowers, and stradiots should lodge all in one hale or tent together, but that the hales and tents of every different sort of weapon of every such 4. troops should be placed one next unto another, and that all their Carriages upon any remove of camp should march together, and that all the Conductors and the chiefs of the societies of tens, as also all their soldiers of every different sort of weapon, should know, frequent & keep company one with another in Camp, & should vow to live and die together, as if they were but one ●ind 〈…〉, society and Camerada.  
And as I have placed this first 1300. light ●●●smen of different weapons in the order before described, so would I in the very same sort and form reduce the second number of 1300. stradiots, archers, and Crosbowers on horseback upon the left side and flank of the dimilances, that are upon the left flank of the men at arms, which are in wing of the left side of the Rearguard, which performed, I would then give order that the third division and number of 1300. stradiots, archers, and Crosbowers on horseback, should be divided into 2. divisions or parts, that is into 650. in each division, and that the first 650. stradiots, archers and Crosbowers on horseback should in the like order as abovesaid be reduced in their societies and troops upon the right flank of the dimilances, that are reduced on the right flank of the men at arms, that are in wing on the right side of the principal battle: And that the other division and number of 650. stradiots, archers, and Crosbowers on horseback should be likewise reduced in their societies and troops upon the left flank and side of the broad square of dimilances, that are on the left flank of the men at arms, that do arm the left side of the a Rereregardrereward.  
And I would that all those 4. wings of light horsemen, stradiots, archers and Crosbowers on horseback should upon any occasion of battle, great incountrie, or skirmish, behave themselves in fight according to the instructions that are hereafter described and set down, where amongst other matters I make special mention of those 3. different sorts of light horsemen.  
And now as I have reduced and placed these 4. battles of footmen, 
How & wher● to arm the foresaid 4 squadrons, with field pieces.  and armed them and their weapons of volee with many squares and troops of horsemen of divers different sorts of armours and weapons, so would I in this sort following, arm those 4. squadrons with certain field pieces, according to the ordinary use of this time for the greater annoyance of the Enemy, and for the more sure guard of the battles. First, in case there were any little hill or high ground of advantage of any convenient nearness unto the two foremost battles, that might command the open fields and plains where the Enemy's battles should march and approach, than I would there place so many field pieces as should be requisite for that ground of advantage, with some trench or trenches by good numbers of labourers and pioneers upon the sudden cast, and those pieces well and strongly guarded with convenient numbers of piquers, halberdiers, and archers, and would place the rest of the field pieces, upon the flanks of the battles in their most convenient places, with their powder, bullets, and all other things that do appertain to the use of them for the annoyance of the Enemy. But in case there were no such grounds nor ground of advantage as aforesaid where to plant such pieces of artillery, then would I place 3. falcons ranforced of 6: pounds the bullet, and one fawconet ranforced of 3. pounds the bullet, some 8. or 10. paces wide from the right corner of the vaungard, and advanced further forward than the frunt and Corner of that battle by the like number of paces with their gunner's and all their aids and things appertaining unto those pieces well guarded with convenient numbers of halberdiers; And so likewise would place the like numbers of 3. falcons and one fawconet in the like distances wide and advanced further forward, than the left corner of the same battle, by th● like number of paces, with their gonners and all their aids and other things appertaining unto those pieces, well guarded also with convenient numbers of halberdiers.  
And as I have now armed the frunt of the said vaungard with the number of field pieces before planted, so would I arm the fruntes of the other 3. battles of Reregard, of main battle, and of a Rereregardrereward before placed and described, each battle with the like numbers of field pieces planted in like distances from the frunt and corners of them, well guarded also with Halberdiers as aforesaid. And although the backs and Reregards of all those 4 battles should not need to be armed with any field pieces, as it shall be within few lines hereafter apparent by the rest which I will set down concerning those matters: yet to arm those 4. battles in the greatest perfection that I can, I would place upon every corner of the backs and Reregards of all the aforesaid 4. battles, two falcons and one fawconet in like distances of paces that I have before placed the field pieces from the corners of the frunt of the aforesaid 4. battles.  
But here it is to be noted that although divers great Captains that have been commanders and leaders of armies, have always accounted Sakers of 10. or 12. pounds their bullets and other pieces from 10. pounds downwards to Robinets of one pound to be in the number of field pieces, 
Of what height the field pieces ought to be.  yet I to arm any battle with field pieces in the open fields, would use no pieces above the height of falcons of 6. pounds the bullets, and no smaller pieces than fawconets of 3. pounds the bullets, unless it were some Robinets of one pound the bullet, and those mounted upon carriages after the manner of Germany light and easy to be drawn, and ready upon the sudden by the Gonners to be turned every ways. And the causes wherefore I would use no pieces of any greater height for the field, are, that to use Sakers of 10. or 12. pounds the bullets in the field, such pieces I say do require more Horses, or Oxen to draw them, and men to manage them, than Fawconets of 3. pounds, or Falcons of 6. pounds do, which overplus and greater numbers of Horses or Oxen of draft, do upon the removing of those horses or oxen, and drawing them back when the pieces are planted, give a great deal more impediment and trouble not only to the Gonners and their aids, but also to ●he sleeves, wings, and troops of the weapons of Volee, that are reduced on the flanks and Corners of squadrons, than the small number of horses belonging to fawconets of three pounds or Falcons of 6. pounds do.  
Also Armies sometimes in marching in the open and plain fields, do light upon sandy and such other softish and yielding grounds, where either upon the drawing or discharging of Sakers of 10. or 12. pounds the bullets, their Wheels do sink so deep into the ground, that oftentimes they give great impediment and let to the Gonners and their aids to manage and use them, upon divers needful occasions; besides that, upon their discharginges the● work no greater effect against the Enemy, than such Falcons and fawconets as aforesaid do.  
Also it is further to be noted that I would never place above the number of 8. field pieces by the flanks or corners of any battle, nor under the number of 4. I mean that I would never place above 3. Falcons and one Fawconet, and those in convenient distances wide from the right Corner of the Battle, and 3. Falcons and one Fawconet, wide and in like distances from the left frunt and corner of the same Battle, or at the fewest 2. Falcons and one Fawconet, some 8. or 10. paces wide from the one Corner, and 2. Falcons and one Fawconet wide in the like distance from the other Corner of the fame Battle, and that in respect that too many field pieces being drawn and marching upon the flanks of squadrons to the intent to be planted as abovesaid upon the day of battle, are for divers causes and upon divers accidents of far greater impediments and trouble, than any ways profitable to their own Squadrons.  
Also it is further to be noted that I would never place any Field pieces directly before the frunt of any Squadrons or Battles, unless I thought our forces in the field to be much inferior in strength to the Enemy, because that pieces so planted would be a great impediment unto the battles marching forward to encounter with the enemy, by reason that such squadrons should be compelled by such pieces so planted to open & break their ranks, and to disorder themselves, which is a matter of great danger the Enemy being in sight or near at hand. And now having armed all the aforesaid 4. battles with field pieces in their most fit and convenient places, there resteth to show what should become of the Carriages and baggages of the Camp, as also where the overplus of the horsemen and footmen that are not yet placed, aught to be employed.  
The Carriages of all Armies and Camps do consist of two sorts, the one sort that are public, as of treasure and pay for the Army, of great quantity of powder both for great and small shot, of armour and weapon, of Artillery, as of Cannons, Culuerings, demi Cannons, demi Culuerings, & Sakers and other smaller pieces, with all things belonging unto them, of divers sorts of victual of provision, of pieces maniable also, as of Curriers of war, of mosquets, harquebusses and other such pieces, with all things belonging unto them, of bows & sheaves of arrows, and Crossbows, gaffles, and quarrels, with pikes, halberds, targets, Lances, Launcezagays and all other sorts of armours and weapons both offensive and defensive, with boats also to make bridges over rivers & all things appertaining unto them: And to be brief, of many other munitions & provisions, all which being public for the use of the whole Army or Camp, are under the charge of the Master of the Ordinance. And as for the other Carriages and baggages that are private they are such as do belong unto Cheistaines, Colonels, Captains, and other higher and lower men of charge and officers, and to be short to all the soldiers of the Army that have any thing to be carried: All which private Carriages also, are under the Master of the Ordinance his commandment and Order. Now all the aforesaid most important public Carriages that do belong to the Army and Camp, 
How the Cari●ages and baggages of the Army, should be placed and guarded.  I would that the Master of the Ordinance and his officers and substitutes should reduce as near as he can possibly into a square with such convenient distances betwixt every row of carriages & carriages as they might not be any impediment nor let the one to the other, neither in marching nor in staing and pausing. And I would that the treasure should be carried either upon mulets or horses, or rather upon close covered wagons after the manner of Germany, and those carriages placed towards the midst of the square on the right hand, and that the wagons or Carts that do carry the chief substance of the powder, should be placed also towards the midst of the square on the left hand, and that both those sorts of carriages should be very strongly guarded with good numbers of halberdiers, and that all the great ordinance of battery and artillery with powder and bullets, and all other things belonging unto them should be placed and drawn with their horses or oxen aswell upon the frunt and back, as upon the outer flanks and sides of the same square: And I would that all the rest of the carriages should be reduced into 2. 3. or 4. ranks in the form of a Rainbow, a semicircle or half round at the back of the most important public carriages which are be●ore reduced into square, in such sort as that the midst of the half round should be directly behind and very near the foresaid square of Carriages, and that both the ends of the semicircle should be so far extended and drawn into a great Compass circular, that the right end thereof should have right over against the left flank & corner of the same (but a good distance wide) the hinder part of the right flank of the principal battle, and that the left end of the same half round, should also have right over against the right flank and corner (but a good distance wide) the hinder part of the left flank of the a Rereregardrereward, and that in such sort as that semicircle or half round of Carriages might seem as it were to half compass and embrace the backs and Rerewards of all the 4▪ battle's and their weapons of volee: which Reducement of carriages being performed, I would then take the 500 halberdiers, and the 900. piquers, which at the first forming of the 4. battles were reserved and not any where placed, and would also either from the beginning reserve unplaced, or at least would draw. 400. archers. 400. harquebuziers, and. 400. mosquetiers, out of the 7000. archers, and the. 3000. harquebuziers and mosquetiers, which are reduced and placed in many sleeves, wings, troops and other forms upon the flanks Corners and Reregards of all the aforesaid 4. battles, and would divide all the aforesaid 900. piquers 500 halbadiers and 12000. weapons of volee of different sorts into 4. parts, 3. parts of the which being reduced into divers squares and troops, I would should be reduced upon the back and both the Corners of the semicircle, with certain fawconetts and Robynets for the guard of the back and ends of the semicircle of Carriages, and therewithal would also place many of 〈◊〉 the harquebuziers and mosquetiers aforesaid upon divers of the Carriages themselves, that from thence upon any approach of the Enemy, they might discharge their pieces at them to their terror and mischief.  
Now as for the fourth part and division of the weapons aforesaid I would they should be placed in many hearses and troops upon the frunts and flanks of the aforesaid square of carriages, as also upon the inner parts and corners of the half round. And as for the 140. stradiots, archers on horseback and Crosbowers on horseback, I would that. 100 of them should be placed under their Conductors in divers little troops & societies upon the back and Rearward of the half round, for the more sure guard of the same, and the rest which are 40. light hor-men, I would that they being divided in their little troops and societies, should be for the guard of the inner part of the semicircle, or else that the Enemy's Army being in frunt of the aforesaid 4. battles, that 20. of those light horsemen under a sufficient Conductor should serve for discoverers on the right hand of the whole Army, and that the other 20. light horsemen under the like Conductor should discover on the left hand, whether there were any unlooked for troops of the enemy approaching, and thereof to give advertisement to the General of the Army, or to the Lord Martial.  
And now all these reducements before set down being performed, It is to be noted that for so puissant an Army as this of 28000. horsemen and footmen of our English Nation is, there cannot be fewer than 4000 pioneers and labourers, besides the wagoners, Carters, and other baggagers of the Camp, aswell for the leveling & plaining of grounds where the Army and artillery shall pass, as also for the fortifying of Camps and approaching of places fortified with trenches, Cross trenches and gabions, and for the making of mounts and working in mines, and infinite other things appertaining to the Army and Camp: which 4000 labourers and pioneers I would upon the day of battle appoint and place in this sort following. First, 
How to reduce appoint and place the pioneers of the whole Army.  I would that besides their spades, shovels, and mattocks, which they should have always by them ready to perform any labour or work to them appointed by their Captains and Conductors, that every one of them should have a good halberd or black bill with a good dagger either hanging before them, or upon their Girdles at their backs: And so I would likewise that all the wagoners, Carters and other baggagers of the Camp should be appointed with the like weapons always upon their carriages ready upon any occasion for them to take and use, or else that every sort of them should have such other weapons as they have most skill to handle: And of the pioneers and labourers I would appoint some convenient numbers to be with the field pieces that were placed upon the fruntes and corners of all the 4. battles to help to remove, turn and manage them.  
Also I would take 1600. more of those pioneers and labourers, and would divide them into 4. divisions or parts of 400. in every division, under their Captains, & Leaders, and would appoint every one of those 4. parts divided into their societies of ten to attend upon the aforesaid 4. battles, and that they should be placed at the backs and in Rearward of the societies of halberdiers that are in Rearward of the weapons of volee of the 4. battles, ready to cut any trenches, or to perform any other commandment unto them given, as also upon the overthrow of the Enemy with their black Bills or other weapons to follow the Chase, and do execution upon the Enemy flying as the soldiers halberdiers placed at the backs of the weapons of volee ought to do, because that according to right discipline upon the overthrow of the Enemy, 
Squadrons and battles, upon the overthrow of the enemy, are in no wise to break their ranks and order to follow the chase: and that in respect of the many & great inconveniences that upon divers occasions and accidents, do often happen.  it is not any ways lawful for battles and squadrons of footmen to break their ranks and orders, to the intent to follow the Chase: And as for all the rest of the 4000 labourers and pioneers, I would place them divided under their Captains and leaders aswell for the guard of the aforesaid square and half round of carriages, as for the keeping of the Carriages in order, and repairing and mending of the wheels and other things of the Ordinance, or of Carts and wagons broken.  
And now having reduced and placed all the aforesaid 4. battles with their forlorn hopes, sleeves, wings, troops and other forms of weapons of volee in their most convenient places, and therewithal armed them with convenient numbers of field pieces, and reduced and placed all the horsemen of divers different sorts of armours and weapons in their most convenient forms for the annoyance of the Enemy and for the aiding and succouring the one of the other upon all needful occasions and accidents, and therewithal placed all the Carriages of the Army and Camp in the form of a half round and semicircle with a square of carriages in the midst or bosom thereof for the guard of the Rerewards and backs of all the 4. battles; and all those carriages in their forms guarded with divers different sorts of weapons both of horsemen and footmen, accompanied with small field pieces to make head against and resist all attempts either of horsemen or footmen: And all this to the intent presently upon the approach of the Enemy that is now in sight to give battle: Then I would wish according to the ancient use of many Warlike Nations, to the intent that it might please Almighty God to prosper this Army with victory, that upon the sound of the Lord Lieutenants trumpet for the displaying of the standard Royal of the Army, to the intent to give battle, the Enemy being in sight and approaching, all the soldiers should be instructed and taught long before to say this short prayer following, or some other to the like effect.  
O Almighty, 
A short prayer to be said by soldiers, upon the approaching and, sight of the Enemy's battle.  Eternal, and incomprehensible God, we most humbly beseech thy divine Majesty, to give unto us all courage, force and victory to the glory of thy holy Name.  
And this said prayer, I would wish to be said upon the sight of the Enemy's battles by all the squadrons of armed footmen, and by all the sleeves and wings of the soldiers of weapons of volee upon their knees in their Ranks as they stand. And that all the horsemen of every sort of weapon should on horseback use the same or the like short prayer.  
And therewithal I thought good further to advertise, that those squadrons being so form or in any other sort, 
It is not lawful nor sufferable for any soldior upon the near approach of the Enemy, to turn his face.  to the intent to give battle to the Enemy, all the soldiers piquers, and halberdiers should be instructed and taught long before, that it is not lawful nor sufferable for any of the soldiers of any rank reduced into form of battle, when upon the very near approach of the enemy's squadron they have uprighted their pikes, to the intent with the points of them to charge or receive a charge of their Enemies be they either horsemen or footmen, so much as once to turn their faces to look behind them: And to the intent that they may be the more terrified from any ways turning their faces to look back (which doth argue fear) they are to be instructed according to discipline, that it shall be lawful for the soldiers of every Rank to wound or kill any soldier or soldiers of the rank before them upon the turning of their faces and bodies to look back: and the same is to be performed even from the very first to the last ranks: And this instruction is to be observed to the intent to make all the soldiers of a squadron form to keep their weapons, faces, eyes, and brave countinaunces towards their Enemies, without showing any suspicion or so much as one tittle of fear.  
But now after my describing very particularly and at large this said Army reduced into the form & forms aforesaid, to the intent that thereby all Gentlemen affected to matters of arms, and soldiers may with great facility understand mine intention and meaning; it may be that some gentlemen not experienced in matters of arms, will in reading this my project imagine that the reducement and forming of an army into divers battles and other forms, doth appertain only to the Lord Lieutenant General, or to the Lord high Marshal of the army; and that the same should be performed only by one of them, one piece after another: And that they peradventure may imagine the rather; because I in my foresaid reducing and forming of the army by way of discourse do write, and say, that first I would reduce and place the vaungard, than the Rearguard, and then the other two battles, and the Weapons of volee, and after the horsemen of divers sorts of armours and Weapons in this sort, and in that sort, with many other particularities and circumstances: Unto which their misimaginations I say, that it is not one man's work; although it were julius Caesar himself, to reduce a whole army into divers forms of battle with celerity when they are to march in the enemies Country, or to fight with the Enemy, but that the same must be of necessity performed by divers Chiefetains, and higher and lower officers of the army: And yet that notwithstanding, it is not possible to perform the same with art, celerity, and Discipline, unless the direction and order thereof do proceed either from the only mouth of the Chieftain of the army, or from the Lord high Marshal, or some other chief Officer by them appointed; And therefore it doth behove (which of them soever doth give the order) to have the form and forms, of all the battles, squares and troops, as well of horsemen as of footmen with the situation and nature of the ground and grounds, and many other particularities in his memory and head; and that in so great perfection, as if he with his eyes did at that instant behold and see the whole army in the field reduced into all his intended forms.  
And therefore to perform the same, it is the ordinary use of all skilful Chieftains of armies and Lord Marshals when they have concluded and resolved with themselves by the advise of their Council, 
The ordinary proceeding of all skilful Chieftainsof Armies in their reducements and forming of battles.  into what form and forms the whole army shall be reduced to march or to fight, to call and assemble before them the Chieftains of all the horsemen and footmen, the master of the Ordinance, the Sergeant Maior general, the master of the Camp, and such other men of office and charge as he thinketh requisite, and there giveth order unto them from point to point, concerning the dislodging and ordering of all those most important affairs: which being by him performed; they presently do resort every one to their own charges, and do give order to their Lieutenants, to their Sergeant Majors, Captains, and all other officers unto whom the execution of those affairs and actions do appertain, for the performance of all those reducements and orders that they have received of the Chieftain of the army, or from the Lord Martial: which done, than all the Captains both of horsemen and footmen, and all their officers, do with all celerity reduce their bands into order, and march into the field, where the Lord Lieutenant General, with the Lord Martial, and Sergeant Maior general, do oversee and direct the Colonels, Sergeant majors and Captains, in the ordering and forming of their battles, troops and other forms. And thus by this ordinary proceeding of all skilful Chieftains of Armies in their reducementes and formings of battles and Camps, those and all other matters military of any great importance, are with great facility, and in very short time performed.  
And now having showed all the most co●uenient ways of reducing and forming of all sorts of squadrons aswell great as small, and where in the field to their most advantage they may be placed, and therewithal how and where horsemen of divers different sorts of armours and weapons ought to be placed in their most convenient places: with many other particularities, I think good before I go any further to give an advertisement that although it hath been the use of all antiquity amongst many Nations according to good discipline to reduce the chief force of their armed footmen into three squadrons or battles, 
Certain reasons alleged to prove that it is more convenient and of greater force, for the general of a puissant Army that doth consist of many thousands of armed footmen to reduce them into 5. 6. 7. or 8. battles, than only into 3. great battles of vaungard, battle, & rearguard, according to the common use.  terming the first, vaunguard, the second, battle, and the third, Reregard; and that oftentimes they have used to form very great battles of 8000. or 10000 or more into one body of squadron; yet I for divers causes and reasons would wish a Lieutenant general, or lord Martial of a puissant Army, rather to form 6. 7. or 8. smaller battles; in case the number of the Army be so great that the same by reason military may be performed, then only into three great battles as aforesaid.  
As for example, if there were an Army of 30000. horsemen and footmen; and that there were of those. 15000. armed men piquers and short weapons to be reduced into divers battles; that I would not only of those. 15000. according to the ordinary use, form a vanguard, battle and Rearward, but also 3. other smaller battles, unto the which I would give 3. different names, & would call the first by the name of a vauntregard Rearward; the second the battle of succour; 
It is here to be noted that the whole frunt of 15000. men reduced into 3. great battles of 5000. to each battle doth consist of 3. times 125. armed men, which being numbered as if they were all in one frunt, do make just 375. piquers, & by flank 40. ranks, ourplus of broken ranks, not any one soldior. And so likewise the frunts of the 15000. men reduced into 6. smaller battles, 3. of the. which being of 3000. to each battle do consist every one of them of 75. piquers in frunt. And the frunt also of each one of the other 3. smallest squadrons of 2000 to every battle consisting of 50. piquers in each frunt being all 6. frunts numbered together as if they were all 〈◊〉 one frunt, do likewise make the just number of 375. piquers in frunt, as the 3. great squadrons of ●000. to every battle do, and by flank 40. ranks, overplus not any one sodior.  and the third by the name of a Rereregard Reregard; and the first 3. battles of vaungard, battle, and Reregard I would should consist of 3000. piquers and short weapons to every battle; and that each one of those battles being reduced into squadron should consist of. 75. piquers in frunt, and. 40. by flanks, overplus of broken ranks not so much as one soldior; and the last 3. mentioned battles I would should consist of. 2000 to every battle, and that every one of them being reduced in to squadrons should consist in frunt, that is in every rank from frunt to back of 50. piquers, and by flanks of. 40. ranks, overplus of broken ranks not any one soldior. And these 6. foresaid battles reduced into the forms aforesaid, and flankt and winged with weapons of volee of divers sorts according to discipline and the coming of the enemy; in mine opinion should be of great advantage to encounter with 15000. armed men their enemies reduced but only into. 3. battles of 5000. to every battle; by reason that whilst the 3. foremost battles each of them consisting of 3000. as aforesaid, do confrunt with the. 3. great battles of 5000. in each battle, the other 3. battles of a vauntregard Rearward and of the battle of succour, and of a Rereregard Rearward, that do march in wings in Rearward retired, as aforesaid, may with great celerity and dexterity by marching and advancing themselves forward, charge the flanks of their enemies 3. battles, and put them in great hazard of disordering & breaking: Howbeit here it may be objected against mine opinion, that in case the 3. great battles of the enemy of. 5000. to every battle were each one of them reduced into. 125. armed men in frunt, & of 40. ranks by flanks; that their 〈◊〉 encountting & joining with the foremost 3. small battles of vaungard, battle, and Reregard, they might every one of them in joining frunt to frunt with them, in respect that every one of the great battles of. 5000. to every battle doth bear a greater breadth by the number of. 28. soldiers in frunt, than any of the foremost 3. squadrons of 3000 in every squadron do, with great advantage draw up a sleeve of 28. in every rank, and of 40. ranks by flanks; and finding themselves full against the flank of their Enemy's squadron, they may suddenly make of flank frunt by turning their faces and weapons towards the flank of the foresaid littlesquadrons, and then reforming themselves in their distances, and closing themselves in frunt and flanks, may bend their pikes and charge the flanks of the little squadrons to their most assured ruin. Or otherwise upon the inconsiderate joining of any one of the small squadrons of 3000. being in frunt but. 75. with the very midst of the frunt of the great battles of. 5000. that do consist of 125. piquers in frunt; the foresaid great squadrons upon such an advantage offered, may draw up each of them two sleeves from each side or flank of their squadron one of. 14. piquers in every rank, and finding themselves even upon both the flanks of the little squadron; they may of their flanks make frunt, and so of. 14. that they were before in every rank, they are now by making of flank frunt become to be 40. in every rank, and in length by flanks 14. soldiers, and so by reforming their distances and straightening and closing themselves in frunt and by flanks as aforesaid, may with their pikes charge both the flanks of the little squadron to their utter disorder and overthrow. To which objection I say, that those foresaid advantages and others might be very well taken against the 3. little squadrons of vaungard, battle, and Reregard, if it were not that the other 3. little battles of succour of 2000 to every squadron, every of them of. 50. piquers in frunt, marching in Rearward in distinct battles by themselves were not always ready upon the drawing up of all such sleeves or wings from the bodies of the great squadrons, suddenly with great dexterity to charge them either in frunt flanks or back, to their most assured ruin and overthrow. But again it may be further alleged in favour of the great battles, that all squadrons of armed men piquers do always march, winged, & flankt with convenient numbers of weapons of volee, in such sort as those weapons of volee should be a great impediment to the foresaid little squadrons to charge the sleeves, and wings as aforesaid.  
Unto the which I say, that true it is, that all well ordered battles, are winged and flankt with shot of divers sorts and that it hath been and is a maxim amongst all men of war of great experience and judgement, that hearses, sleeves, wings and troops of shot being divided into many small divisions, are a great deal more apt and ready to be employed at one time, into more different and effectual services to work great effects then any great divisions of shot can be: Which if it be so, as most certain it is by all experience Military; then the 3. battles of 5000. to every battle having 10000 weapons of volee of divers sorts to be reduced under their safeguard, must divide those 10000 into so many compertimentes and divisions of sleeves, wings and troops, as are requisite to guard 3. such battles; As also the divisions of weapons of volee themselves to be protected and defended under the safeguard of those 3. squadrons; and so likewise the 15000. armed men being reduced into 6. little battles as aforesaid, having the like number of weapons of volee of divers sorts to aid them, and to be by them protected, must by all order military divide those 10000 weapons of volee into double as many or more divisions of sleeves, wings and troops than the 3. great battles have divided theirs for their aid. From all which experienced reasons and examples I come to conclude that as 15000. armed footmen reduced but only into 3. great battles cannot by any reason military have so many sleeves, wing, troops, & other divisions of divers sorts of shot under their safeguard, as 15000. armed men reduced into 6. smaller battles may have: Even so that the 3. great squadrons of armed men with their few & great divisions of shot cannot possibly by any reason or experience work so great effects, as the 6. smaller battles their Enemies, with their many and more convenient divisions of divers sorts of weapons of volee may work.  
And now whereas I have before formed a squadron and divers squadrons all of halberdiers or battleaxes environed or empaled about with 5. ranks of piquers in frunt, flanks and back; and that the short weapons are in greater number than the pikes; & therefore by some in these days (that do more regard the new fashions, and fancies of the disordered and corrupted Militia, that of very late years in divers civil wars have crept into Christendom, than the true discipline, art, and science military, which hath been practised and used from age to age of all antiquity, in the wars betwixt Emperors, Kings, and puissant Common wealths) it may peradventure be thought, that such a squadron is no ways comparable for all great effects and purposes to a squadron of the like number all of piquers without any short weapons, saving only a very few for the guard of the Ensigns: Thereunto I say, that I do think this squadron of short weapons environed with 5. ranks of pikes as aforesaid, to be of a great deal more advantage, strength and effect aswell against horsemen as footmen, than any squadron of the like number all of piquers can be. And because it shall be apparent that I am not carried with new fashions and fancies, but with the observation of that which I have read, hath been in use and observed by divers brave Nations in many ages, as also by mine own hearing the opinions of divers great Captains, Colonels, and Sergeants Majors of divers warlike Nations, some of late years dead, and some yet alive; And therewithal by that which I have seen and observed myself, in the squadrons of divers Nations, some of the which have used squadrons all of piquers as aforesaid, and other Nations squadrons of piquers with some ranks of halberds with in their pikes: which different uses of Nations have given me occasion not only to enter into imagination of the different or contrary causes of the forming of such squadrons, but also the more curiously to ask & inquire of divers men of great sufficiency of those Nations, the different reasons and causes of the forming of such squadrons, some all of pikes and others of pikes and short weapons as aforesaid; I therefore will set down that which I have gathered and observed by the diversity of their opinions concerning the same, as also by mine own sight and consideration, and will here by the help of Almighty God, give sufficient causes and reasons to prove that my foresaid squadron form with short weapons, environed about with 5. ranks of piquers as aforesaid, is of far greater force and effect, then if the squadron were all of piquers; And the reasons are these.  
First, when a squadron of men at arms or dimilances, or divers squadrons seconding one another, should charge the squadron of footmen all of piquers in frunt: 
Reasons to prove a Squadron of Battle-axes, environed about with 5. ranks of Piques to be a far greater advantage, strength, and effect against▪ horsemen 〈◊〉 footmen them any squadron of the like number, all of Piques.  all men of consideration may consider and know that all the whole squadron consisting only of piquers, according as I have before form divers squadrons in this discourse; that not above 5. ranks of the foremost pikes at the most being closed in frunt, flanks and back, or rather but 4. ranks, can make head with the points of their pikes to hurt or reach the horses or men of the foremost ranks of the Lances charging; & that because the longest pikes that are in these days used by any Nation are not above 18. foot long, of which length of 18. foot, 
Not above 5. ranks of Piquers closed in frunt, flank & back, are able to make head with their Piques, to reach or hit the first rank of Lances charging, for divers reasons.  the foremost rank of piquers either clapping the butendes of their pikes under their right feet, or carrying them breast high to resist, and repulse the Lances (both which ways are in the beginning of this book, very particularly declared) I say that from their right hands that they hold the butendes of their pikes withal to theirleft and forehands that do bear their pikes (incase they carry them abovehand breast high) do occupy and therefore shorten 3. foot at least of the length of their pikes towards the foremost rank of their Enemies; then there do remain 15. foot beyond their left and forehandes more for them to reach and annoy their enemies withal; then the second rank closing themselves to the first rank and carrying their pikes breast high over the shoulders of the first rank do lose 3. foot more of ●y length of their pikes by that which they hold betwixt their hinder and forehands, as aforesaid; so as there remaineth but 12. foot of the length of their pikes beyond the foremost ranks towards the annoyance of their Enemies; then the third rank closing themselves to the shoulders of the second rank do come likewise to lose three foot more by so much of their pikes as they hold betwixt both their hands as aforesaid, which with the thickness and distance of the two ranks before them doth come to make them to lose 9 foot of the length of their pikes, so as there remaineth only 9 foot of the length of their pikes at the most beyond the foremost rank towards the annoyance of the Enemy; then the fourth rank by the like cause and reason cometh to lose 3. foot more of the length of their pikes, so as there remaineth only 6. foot of the length of their pikes with the points of them before the foremost rank to annoy the Enemy; then the fifth rank of the squadron of piquers cometh by the like causes and reasons as aforesaid to lose 3. foot more at the least of the length of their pikes, which with the thickness of all the 4. ranks before them do come to make them to lose 15. foot or more of the length of their pikes so as there remaineth only 3. foot of the length of their pikes beyond the foremost and first rank, the which 3. foot of their pikes towards the Enemy reaching too short to annoy either horses or men, do rather through the shortness of the same, reaching so little a way beyond the first rank, trouble the foremost ranks of their fellows, then work any other good effect; and therefore those pikes of the fifth rank are rather to be kept still uprighted with the points some thing bend towards the Enemy, than any ways to be couched as the pikes of the 4. foremost ranks are, and so likewise the piquers of the sixth, seventh, and eighth ranks, and subsequently of all the rest having no possibility at the first charge either of horsemen, or footmen, to annoy them, they are to keep their pikes still uprighted, the points something bend forward towards the enemy to show themselves in the sight of the enemy ready to secure the foremost ranks, rather than any ways to bear the points of their pikes any lower. But if any man will say that all the backer ranks of piquers may orderly and easily secure and supply the places of such piquers of the fore ranks as come to be slain, wounded, or overthrown, and so resist or repulse either horsemen or footmen entering, as I myself in the beginning of this book have particularly set down.  
Thereunto I answer, 
An Objection answered.  that the pikes that are in the backer ranks upon the accidental breaking in of any men at Arms into the foremost ranks of piquers; or upon the entering of any of the foremost ranks of the contrary squadron of footmen; are through the having of so many other ranks of piquers before them, with the great length of those weapons in a press so unmaniable, and therefore of so little effect when battles come to join; that most of the pikes of the inner ranks; I mean of the sixth, seventh, and eighth, and so consequently of the rest of the middle ranks, through the letting fall of the points of their pikes forward (how leisurely soever) to couch and bend the points of them to the annoyance of the enemies, do through their great length so intermingle, and intricate with the piqueer of the former ranks, that every sudden touch of the pikes that are in the ranks before one another, do so disorder, beat, and turn aside the points of the pikes from their intended thrusts at their enemies, as that they rather turn them through their great length to the trouble of the ranks before them, than any ways to resist, repulse, or annoy the Enemy.  
But now it may be demanded of me wherefore the sixth, seventh, 
Why the sixth, seventh, and so consequently, the rest of the inner ranks can not as orderly let fall & couch their Piques to the mischief of the Enemies, as the 5 foremost ranks.  and so consequently the rest of the inner ranks should not as orderly one after another let fall and couch their pikes to the resistance and mischief of their enemies, as the 5. foremost, and first rank● of piquers may. Whereunto I answer that the 4. or 5. first ranks having apparent and clear in their eyes and sights the coming of their Enemies in squadron, be they horsemen or footmen, may with greater order and leisure all one after another couch their pikes and charge a contrary squadron of footmen, or receive a charge of horsemen, than the other inner ranks of piquers can, who upon the breaking in and entering of some of the men at arms in one place or other, or the entering of some part of the squadron of their enemy's footmen more in one place then in another, as sometimes it happeneth, cannot so well and clearly see the coming and entering of their Enemies, by reason of so many ranks of their fellows before them, as that they may so well in just and convenient times, moments and distances, orderly and effectually let fall and couch their pikes as the 4. or 5. foremost ranks have done.  
Upon which accidents it doth ordinarily happen, that such inner ranks are driven to let fall and couch their pikes upon suddens, lest that by their not couching them, they should by their enemies approaching them too near lose the use of the points of their pikes. Which sudden letting fall and couching of their pikes, doth cause the aforesaid intermingling and intricating, and confused overthwarting of pikes with pikes, a great deal more in the inner ranks, than any ways in the foremost 4. or 5. ranks as aforesaid. By all which it is to be considered and noted, that neither horsemen, Lances, nor footmen piquers can enter under the points of my squadron of battleaxes empaled and environed in frunt, flanks and back, with 5. ranks of pikes as aforesaid, but that they must of necessity abide the first violence of the points of them, 〈◊〉 they find them already in great order and leisure couched to resist and repulse them.  
Whereas far otherwise it doth behove the inner ranks of a squadron consisting all of piquers, to observe the entering of their Enemies be they horsemen or footmen in such moments & just distances, as that they may be sure to let fall and couch their pikes, when their Enemies are entered, and do come within 4. or 5. ranks of them; which if they should fail to perform; than it were too late for such inner ranks to couch their pikes either against horsemen or footmen, now entered and comen within and under the length of their pikes. But unto this, some unskilful soldior may object and say, that the inner ranks may still carry their pikes couched, ready to resist, or repulse their Enemies entering. Or otherwise, that they letting fall and couching their pikes, after that their Enemies be entered within less than 5. or 4. ranks of them may so far retire, and pull them back, as that they may recover the use of the points of them against their Enemies to their great annoyance.  
Unto which objections, I say that it is not in the force and strength of the most puissant soldiers of any Nation that live, 
An objection answered.  still to carry their pikes couched, no nor yet to bear them abovehand over their fellows heads but a very little while, considering the great length and heaveth of them: And therefore they must never let fall and couch them, until such instant & needful times, as their Enemies do approach them in so near distances, as they must presently (either with one entire thrush, if they be the foremost, 4▪ or. 5. ranks, or with divers thrusts in just instantes and times if they be the inner ranks), upon the entering of the Enemy, be driven to make head, and succour the ranks before them; for if the inner ranks should through lack of skill thrust at their Euemies before they come within the reach of their pikes, than they should work no other effect, but thrust their own fellows that are betwixt them and their Enemies, to their trouble, or mischief in their heads, necks or backs. And for answer to the other objection that the inner ranks of piquers letting fall and couching their pikes, may pull and retire them so far back, as that they may again recover the use of the points of them against their Enemies entered; I say, that if the enemies be they either horsemen or footmen be entered but only .7. 6. 5. 4. or 3. feet within and under the length of any of the pikes of the inner ranks that it is not possible for such piquers, in respect of the rank and ranks that are so near and close behind them, to pull their pikes with their arms so far back, as any ways to recover the use of the points of them against such Enemies as are comen within and under their pikes as aforesaid: whereof ensueth that those inner ranks have utterly lost the use of their pikes, and therefore must let them fall to the great trouble of the legs and feet of the ranks of their fellows advancing forward, and betake themselves to their swords and daggars, 
The great effects that a squadron of Battle-axes, environed about with 5. ranks of Piquers do work.  which are not weapons any ways able to repulse or resist armed men with battleaxes, or halberds. By all which before alleged, I think it is most apparent that the 5. ranks of piquers that do impale & environ my squadron of battleaxes by frunt, flanks, and back, are ranks enough to restist any Charge or Charges of Lances, aswell, and a great deal better, then if the same squadron were all of pikes, because that the 4. or 5. first ranks only are those that do work all the effects to the resisting & repulsing of Lances charging, or that are with their thrush to resist and repulse any charge of a squadron of footmen piquers their Enemies; and if any Lances by chance should break through those 5. ranks, than the battleaxes, and short staved, and long edged, and short and strong pointed halberds in the hands of well armed men, are ready at the heels of the 5. ranks of their piquers, and do wonderfully both with blow and thrust at the heads, and faces of horses or men, kill wound, overthrow, or repulse either horsemen Lances, or footmen piquers, whose first charges and furies have been before greatly stayed and weakened by the resistance of the first 5. ranks of piquers (as aforesaid;) For it is to all men of understanding in matters Military most evident, that short staved battleaxes, or halberds, of not above 6. foot long in their whole length, do no ways in their blows nor thrusts, either against horsemen or footmen trouble, entermingle, nor intricate one with another, by reason of their shortness, as the ranks of pikes do, through their great lengths: which pikes do no ways kill nor hurt but only with their points, as is before at large declared. By all which I come to conclude, that 4. or 5. of the first ranks, be it in frunt, flanks, or back; I mean which of them soever upon the coming of the enemy be made frunt; do work far greater effects than all the rest of the inner ranks of piquers can possibly do: for in troth, all the inner ranks of piquers besides the 5. first ranks, do neither against horsemen, and chiefly against footmen halbarders, or battleaxes well armed; no nor yet against armed men with sword and targets, using their targets only to defend their faces from the points of the pikes, work any important effect, as it is most manifest by the reasons, causes and accidents by me before alleged.  
And thus having at large showed by divers reasons the imperfections of squadrons that do consist only of pikes, with the great perfections and effects of squadrons of battleaxes environed only with 5. ranks of piquers; as also how all sorts of squadrons that are commonly in use in the open fields in these days, and also in all former ages ought to be reduced into form, with many other different particularities; I will omit divers other sorts & forms of little battles that are contained in some printed books of divers languages; as of Crossebattles, of battles in triangle, & battles in form of stars, with many other such battles of divers shapes & fashions extraordinary, that are rather set forth to fill up books & to please the curious; then for any great use of them; by reason that such fantastical battles are no ways able in the open fields to march & encounter with such squadrons as I have before described and set down: And yet sometimes armies may march upon such strange & extraordinary grounds (as in marching over mountains or high hills y● have variety of forms of rising & descending grounds) that it is not possible to form such great squadrons in such forms, as I have before declared and described, but that upon the coming of the enemy they must be forced to divide their three battles of vanguard, battle and Rearward, that they marched withal in the plain and open fields, into as many varieties of little battles and forms, as the advantages and forms of the variety of grounds where they presently find themselves do present unto them; and therewithal to flank their armed men on every side with weapons of volee: All which a Lord Martial or sergeant Mayor may with a great deal more facility perform, then to form such great squadrons as I have before described, reduced, and form.  
But here I think it good to advertise the Reader, that I have heard very credibly reported, that there is another kind of forming of a battle, amongst some of the Sergeants Majors of our Nation in these days greatly in use, and that is; That they place four piquers with their pikes advanced in square, according to the greatness of the squadron that they mean by guess to form with the number of piquers that they have for that purpose: And sometimes they place in the midst of the frunt betwixt the two foremost piquers, a third piquer, and so likewise they place two other piquers, upon the midst of each flank one, betwixt the said piquers that are in flank, with a fourth piquer also in the midst betwixt the two hindermost piquers, which 8. piquers when they have placed in as just square in their distances as they can: then they command all the piquers that they mean by guess to reduce into squadron, being all behind and in Rearward of the 8. piquers in square, presently to run into the void place within the square of the 8. piquers, and there to fall into their ranks with hubbledeshuf as well as they can, until they have filled up all the distances and empty place within the square of the said 8: piquers, which being performed; they hold this way not only for a very ready forming of a squadron, but also for a most excellent way of reducement, 
Some Sergeants Ma●ors of this time do through lack of understanding and skill, think a battle of extremity and necessity to be better than a battle according to art and discipline form.  because that there is not any Sergeant Mayor so unskilful, although he be utterly ignorant in Arithmetic, nor that he do know so much as one letter upon the book, but that he may by guess form such a squadron; which kind of forming, or rather deforming of squadrons, in troth is called of all antiquity to make a squadron or battle of extremity and necessity; when upon the sudden and unlooked for approach and near coming of the enemy, through the fault and negligence of the scouts & discoverers, they are forced in the place of assembly in their Camp, to make of necessity virtue: that is, for lack of time to reduce their squadrons into form of like numbers of soldiers in every rank, and into their just and proportionate distances both by frunt & flanks according to discipline, to form a confused squadron of different numbers of soldiers into crooked ranks, and uncertain and confused distances, into the void ground or place that is within 4. 8. or 12. or more piquers, placed in square as abovesaid, in the place of assembly of their Camp: which kind of disordered battles of extremity are no ways able by any reason Military, to encounter and abide the charge of a squadron of the like number of piquers reduced into form according to discipline; that is of like numbers of soldiers in every rank from frunt to back, and in their even and proportionate distances in frunt, and by flanks; and therefore being always ready with great order and facility to incorporate and close themselves by frunt and flanks, may without any ways troubling the one the other, nor intricating their pikes nor ranks, manage and use their pikes with great dexterity▪ and charge, and overthrow, such a confused multitude, or battle of extremity that are in uncertain numbers in their ranks, and in as uncertain and confused distances: which causeth disequality and crookedness of ranks; and therefore cannot possibly close themselves in frunt and by flanks, in any order, form, and strength, nor manage and use their pikes without confounding and intricating their pikes with their fellows pikes, to the great advantage of their enemies well form squadron, and their own most certain ruin; Besides all which it is not possible for such a disordered squadron to march in the fields, with any order, nor according to discipline to perform divers other effects belonging to well ordered squadrons in the field, as all skilful and expert Sergeants Majors, and men of war of experience and judgement do very well know. Wherefore I come to conclude that such disordered battles of necessity and extremity are never to be used, but upon a sudden and unlooked for coming of the enemy, through the negligence of the scouts, discoverers, or Centinelles as aforesaid. And therefore now I proceed to divers other very important and requisite matters Military.  

That great bands of 500 under an Ensign are mor● connenient for all services in the field, then small bands of 150.  
IN this place before I proceed any further, I thought good to notify unto all such as shall read these my instructions, that my opinion is, the great bands of footmen of 500 soldiers to every Ensign according to the ancient and modern use of Germany (when they do invade, 
Great bands of footmen of 500 to every Ensign are a great deal better than bands of 150. or 200. for divers causes, and reasons.  or resist, and make head against the Turk) are more convenient, and a great deal better as well for the princes saving of many pays of Captains, and officers, as also for the more speedy forming of great battles or squadrons with dexterity & celerity, then small bands of 150. are; who in respect of the many Captains and officers, are a far greater charge unto the prince as aforesaid; as also through the smallness and great number of their compartments or divisions of divers different sorts of weapons, a great deal more slow and unfit to be reduced into great battles or squadrons, then great bands are: which mine opinion, because I have fortified and proved the same with certain examples & many reasons in my book of discourses, which I set forth and caused to be printed 1590. and yet that the same hath been by certain apassionate Gentlemen with many malicious and vain words void of all reason military, denied in certain malicious libeling pamphlets by them in written hand in many places dispersed contrary to all civility and profession military; I will again in this place rehearse & set down a part of that which is contained in my foresaid book of discourses, and will fortify the same with such reasons and examples, as any man that is of any discretion may manifestly see the great ignorance and lack of skill of those that do think, that many small compartments of piquers and of weapons of volee may be as soon brought into any form of battle, with sleeves, wings, forlorn hopes, etc., as great bands of 500 that do consist of great compartments of different sorts of weapons may; And therefore the words of my book of discourses to prove my foresaid project, are in a manner verbatim, these following.  
When the great Princes of Germany upon any occasion or injury offered, are disposed to make War one against another, or upon an imperial army assembled to invade or resist the Turk, being bound as they are by their Tenors Military to the Empire, some to find Horsemen, 
The causes and reasons wherefore the Prince's of Germany do use great bands of 500, in their service of the Empire.  and others to find footmen at their own charges, they then upon such occasions have always used, and do still use to form their Regiments of footmen into great bands of 500 to an Ensign, & that they use especially for two causes; the one thereby in their regiments and so consequently in their whole Armies to save the pay of a great sort of Captains, Lieutenants of bands, Ensignbearers and other officers, which would be greatly increased & so amount to a far greater charge, and pay, in case they should compose smaller bands of 200. or 150. or under that number.  
The other cause that doth move them to form their bands so great, is, that their Militia consisting of harquebuziers, mosquetiers, piquers, and some halbarders, with a few slathe swords for the guard of their Ensigns, that those sorts of weapons by reason of the greatness of the bands being in great compartments and divisions may be the more readily and easily drawn out, and separated, and with a great deal more celerity incorporated with the other great compertimentes of like weapons of other great bands to form their squadrons with sleeves, wings, troops, and forlorn hopes, according to the order and direction of their Colonels, and sergeants Majors, then if their bands were smaller either of 200. or 150. or under that number, whereby the Compartments of weapons should be also the smaller, and thereby in number the greater, and so consequently, would require a much longer time not only to draw out, but also to incorporate compertimentes with compertimentes for the forming of battles with sleeves, wings, and forlorn hopes as aforesaid: Besides that, such great bands both by reason and experience are as ready, and a great deal more ready to be employed either in whole companies under their Captains and Lieutenants, or divided into parts and corporalates under their Corporals and Sergeants, for watches, bodies of watches, Sentinels, and all other ordinary and extraordinary employments and actions military, in Camp, Town, or field, than any small bands are: For it is most evident that small bands of 150. to an Ensign, consisting of 5. different sorts of weapons, (viz:) pikes, battleaxes, mosquets, harquebusses, and longbowes, and that therefore every one sort of those weapons is to be reduced into divers little divisions by themselves, which besides the uncomely sight to see so many small compertimentes in every such little band, it would require a much longer time upon the daily and ordinary dislodging of an Army reduced into a vaungard, battle and rearward, to draw so great numbers of compartments out of such a number of little bands; then out of a few bands of 500 to draw a few great compartments, and to incorporate and reduce them into any form or forms.  
And this before written, I think, might suffice to persuade any that do profess Arms, that are of any discretion, although but of mean judgement in matters Military, that such great bands as aforesaid, are a great deal more fit and convenient to form battles and squadrons withal, than such small bands as aforesaid are. Howbeit because there be some 3. or 4. of our Nation that have written in certain lewd and false pamphlets and libels against me (as is before mentioned) that have not been ashamed to name themselves the inventors and devisers of a new discipline Military, (who how far wide they are from the understanding of all true discipline, all men of right consideration may evidently see by their writings, speakings, vain opinions and actions); that they I say, in their malicious and frivolous libels do write (as aforesaid) that small bands of 150. are as ready to be reduced into any squadron, as great bands of .500. are. I therefore to make that, which I have before written more apparent, and utterly to convince their obstinate ignorances, will by comparing the best orders and ways of fourming of squadrons, both with great, and with small bands, show with what great readiness and facility, squadrons may be form with a few great Compartments out of great bands of. 500 to an Ensign; and with what difficulty great squadrons are reduced into form, with many little Compartments out of small bands of .150. to an Ensign: that thereby all men of consideration may evidently see the erroneous and unskilful opinions Military that those our such men of war do hold: And therefore I do for example allege: That admit that a general of an Army of .18000. 
An example to prove that great bands of Soldiers are more requisite than small bands.  footmen reduced into .6. Regiments of .3000. to every Regiment and .8000. 10000 or .12000. horsemen of divers armours and weapons, with all other provision and furniture belonging to such an Army, to invade some foreign dominions; & that the whole 18000 footmen being divided into 5. parts he had concluded (according to the commendable opinion of some notable men of war that I have known in my time) that. 3. parts of the 5. should be all piquers and short weapons, or all piquers without any short weapons, to form a vaungard, battle and Rearward, according to the manner and use of the Italians and Spaniards of this time; and that the other two parts should be all weapons of volee; wear I say, determined to make a proof, whether little bands of 150. or great bands of 500 were most apt and ready to form squadrons withal; and therefore having reduced 3. of the 6. Regiments into little bands of 150. that is 20. bands of 150. to every Regiment of 3000. and the other. 3. Regiments into great bands of .500. that is .6. bands of 500 to every Regiment of 3000. he then giving these or the like directions hereafter set down, should most manifestly see the great aptness, dexterity and readiness of great bands of .500. to reduce squadrons into, with the wonderful unreadiness, great disorders and imperfections in reducing of squadrons into form by little bands of 150. consisting of .5. different weapons as aforesaid▪  
The Lieutenant general therefore first to make proof whether the piquers of one of the regiments of the small bands, or the piquers of one of the Regiments of the great bands were more ready to be reduced into squadron, is to command that at a certain hour upon a sound and warning given by his trumpeter, two Colonels with their two Regiments the one consisting all of small bands of .150. and the other all of great bands of .500. should with all celerity reduce themselves into their simple and single order of ranks: (which reducement of bands into their simple, and single order, is ever to be performed before squadrons can with order and reason Military be form), 
soldiers are to be ruduced into their simple and single order of ranks, before they are to be broug▪ to any form of squadron.  and that either in the place of Arms, if the General shall appoint that place, or otherwise if it shall please him to command both the Colonels at one time to march out of the Camp to two several places & grounds appointed both of like distance from the fortifications of the Camp; there to reduce .3. parts of their Regiments which do consist of piquers, (the other two parts consisting weapons of volee as aforesaid) into two several squadrons, each of them 60. piquers in frunt, & 30. by flanks which are in each Regiment .1800. piquers: 
The great readiness and dexterity in forming of squadrons with great compartments out of bands of 500  Then I say that the 3. parts of piquers of every great band of .500. being .300. and the other two parts of weapons of volee in number 200. marching out of their quarters into the place of Arms, which is betwixt their quarter and the fortifications of the Camp, and there reducing themselves into their simple and single order of 100 ranks 5. in every rank; or rather into 50. ranks of 10. in every rank: I mean the one half of the weapons of volee, that doconsist of 100 marching before the ranks of the piquers, and the other half of the like number of weapons of volee behind the hindermost rank of all the piquers, with the Ensign according to all discipline in the midst of the piquers: And so all those 6. bands of 500 under every Ensign marching 10. in a rank one after another out of the Camp towards the ground where they are to form their squadron; whither being comen, the weapons of volee that are in frunt of the first band, marching a convenient distance to the right hand from before the piquers, to the intent to give the piquers place, and to be ready to arm the forepart of the right flank of the squadron: And the compertiment of piquers of this foremost and first band being comen to the ground whereas they are to advance their pikes, and make a stand, and having performed the same; the other half of the weapons of volee of the same band that marched behind, who are to arm the forepart of the left flank of the squadron being drawn up by their Conductors so large a distance on the left hand from their compertiment of piquers, as they may leave ground enough betwixt them and their piquers to form all the rest of the squadron: which whilst the first band of 500 is a performing; then the one half of the weapons of volee of the second band that doth follow the first band, being by their Conductors drawn from before their compertiment of pikes, and marching up by the right flank of the compertiment of the first band of piquers, (that have already made their stand) until they come to the foremost compertiment of the weapons of volee; & the second compertiment of 30. ranks of piquers 10. in a rank of the said second band, marching up by the left flank of the first compertiment of that weapon until they find their first and last ranks equal in frunt and back, with the first and last ranks of the first compertiment; and then the other half of the weapons of volee, that marched behind the second compertiment of piquers being by their Conductors drawn so far to the left hand, until they come to find the hindermost ranks of the other compertiment of weapons of volee that was marched thither before; And so subsequently the foremost compartments of the weapons of volee of the third band of 500 marching up by the right flank of the piquers that they find already reduced; as the other two foremost compertimentes of the former bands have done; And the third compertiment of piquers marching up by the left flank of the other two Compartments before reduced, until they find themselves of equal frunt with them: And then the other that is, the last compertiment of weapons of volee of the same band, being drawn from behind their piquers to the other two compartments that are already of the left hand: And so subsequently the three foremost compartments of weapons of volee of the three last bands, marching up by the right flank of the piquers before them, to the intent to arm aswell the hinder part of the right flank, as the back, or Rearward of the squadron: And the three compertimentes of piquers, of the said three last bands, marching up by the left flank of the other 3. compartments already reduced, as also by the left flanks orderly the one of the other, until they find themselves all of one equal frunt; the whole squadron by this means, is now reduced in a very short time into form of battle, having in frunt 60. piquers, and by flanks 30. ranks: which whole squadron being reduced thus into form of 60. piquers in frunt, and 30. ranks by flanks, doth contain 1800. piquers as aforesaid; the hindermost & last three compartments of weapons of volee marching to the left flank of the squadron, ready to arm the same according to the direction of the Colonel or Sergeant Maior.  
Or otherwise, if the same said Regiment of 3000. being ready to dislodge and march out of their quarter, will use a more short way of reducement into squadron, and to arm the same with weapons of volee: Then the Sergeant Maior may give order that every one of the 6. bands of 500 to every Ensign be reduced into their simple and single order of ranks in this sort following; that is that the Captains and officers of the 3. first bands that he will reduce into form, and begin his squadron withal, do reduce all their weapons of volee that are to 〈◊〉 the frunt and right flank of the squadron into compartments of 10. in a rank, or fewer as he shall think most meet: And that the said several compartments of every one of those three bands being led by their Conductors shall march and follow one another: And that all the piquers of the 6. whole bands be reduced into 6. compartments of 10. in every rank from frunt to back, ready upon the sound of the drums to follow the compartments of weapons of volee; As also being distinctly led by their Captains to march and follow one another: And then that the three compartments of weapons of volee, that do belong to the three last compartments of piquers, that are to arm the left flank and back of the squadron shall reduce themselves into 10. in a rank throughout, or any smaller number, in like sort as he hath before given direction to the three first compartments of weapons of volee.  
All which reducementes into their simple or single order being performed; then upon the strokes and sounds of the drums, or of the Colonels trumpeter, they are presently to march out at that sally, turnpique, or barriers of the camp, that it hath before pleased the General, or L. Marshal to give direction: And the three foremost compartments of weapons of volee being comen near to the place where the squadron is to be form, they are presently to march to the right flank and side of the same place, & there to reduce themselves into as many different forms, as the sergeant Maior hath before given direction: At which instant, the first compertiment of 30. ranks of piquers 10. in a rank, do march up to the place of reducement, whither being comn, upon the sound of the drums for that purpose, they are presently to advance their pikes and make a pause. At which time & instant the second compertiment, and the third compertiment both of like numbers of 10. piquers in every one rank from frunt to back, do march up the second by the right flank of the first compertiment that hath already made a pause or stand, and the third by the left flank of the said first compertiment: At which time and instant also the fourth compertiment doth march up by the right flank of the second compertiment, and the fifth by the left flank of the third compertiment.  
And the sixth or last compertiment by the right flank of the fourth compertiment, until all those 5. compartments do find their first ranks equal in frunt, and their last ranks equal in back or rearward, with the first and last ranks of the said first compertiment. During which time and instant of the reducement of the said 6. compartments of piquers into squadron, the three last compertimentes of weapons of volee do march up by the left flank of the squadron of piquers now already formed, and there are to reduce themselves into the like forms that the foremost 3. compartments of weapons of volee have done, upon the right flank of the squadron: Or otherwise as it shall please the Colonel or Sergeant Maior to give direction, for the arming of the said left flank and back of the aforesaid piquers.  
And now this squadron being by this kind of reducement, reduced into form, with sleeves, wings, troops, and other forms of weapons of volee, with great readiness and celerity; all men of consideration may evidently see, with what great facility and dexterity a few great compartments of piquers and halberdiers for the guard of the Ensigns, out of great bands of 500 are reduced into squadron of 60. soldiers in frunt and 30. ranks by flank, or into any other far greater squadron, with weapons of volee reduced into divers forms to arm, the frunt, flanks and back, according to the commandment of the General, or Colonel, or Sergeant Maior.  
But now let us see how the other aforesaid regiment of 3000. divided into small bands of hundreds and fifties, (according to the contrary opinion) three parts of them piquers, and the other two parts weapons of volee (as aforesaid) may with most celerity be reduced into the like squadron of 1800. piquers before set down; that is, 60. in frunt, and 30 by flanks: I say that to form that squadron, each one of the 20. captains must according to all order and discipline, first reduce their bands under their Ensigns into their simple and single order of ranks, as also into their different compartments, as the great bands before have done.  
And because that they may the more readily form the squadron, it will behove them to have special regard to the number of 60. soldiers that their squadron must contain in every rank from frunt to back, as also that there must be 30. ranks by flanks: which being by them considered, they then must reduce all the piquers of every one of their bands into such numbers of ranks, as that they may be by flank, in equal numbers of ranks with the squadron that they intent to form of 30. ranks: which to accomplish, they must reduce their compertimentes of piquers of each one of their bands into 30. ranks of 3. in a rank: which number being 3. parts of the 5. parts of each one of their bands as aforesaid; doth amount just to 90. piquers; the other two parts consisting of weapons of volee being 60. So as they must form their squadron with the compartments of 90. piquers, 3. in every rank, as the great bands did form their squadrons with compartments of 300. piquers 10 in every rank, which to perform, (considering that they are 20. compartments of 90. piquers to every compertiment, out of 20 little bands, as the compartments of the great bands were but only 6. compartments of 300 piquers to every compertiment, out of the 6. great bands of 500 to every band) will require 3. or 4. times longer time, then to reduce them into squadron by the 6. compartments of the great bands as aforesaid.  
Or in case that the Colonel would give order that those little bands being reduced into their simple and single order of. 3. 
divers disorders and confusions that do ensue in forming of squadrons with little compartments out of bands of 150.  in every rank throughout every Compertiment as aforesaid, should come to join 3. or 4. Compartments of piquers out of 3. or 4: little bands, thinking thereby to form the squadron with greater celerity: They I say shall first before they bring that to pass, find themselves greatly confused to form the same, by their seeing so great a number of little bands dispersed over the place of Arms, which do occupy a great deal more ground in the said place, than 6. great bands do: Besides that it will require a double, or rather a triple time more, first to reduce 20 little bands into their simple and single order of ranks, and little Compartments of so many different sorts of weapons in so many places dispersed: and then to draw out and to incorporate such a number of small Compartments one with another, and after to reduce them into one body of squadron as aforesaid, then only with 6. great Compartments of piquers to form the like squadron, & to arm the same with many forms of different sorts of weapons of volee in frunt, flanks and back. By all which alleged both Pro et contra, as also performed in the sight and presence of such a general as aforesaid, I think it would be evident unto him, and to all other men of consideration and judgement in his Amie, that this little squadron form but of. 1800▪ piquers, is a great deal sooner and with more facility performed with the Compartments of a few great bands, then with a great number of little Compartments, out of many little bands as aforesaid: which if it be so in so small a squadron where the little Compartments of 90. piquers marching 3. in a rank do bear length in number of ranks by flanks to form such a little battle without patching and piecing so many little compartments to form the squadron withal: what than if the General should command the Colonels and Sergeants Majors of 2. of the 3. Regiments of those little bands to reduce all the piquers that according to the former division do amount unto 3600. piquers, into a squadron on of 90. piquers in frunt, and 40. ranks by flank? when that to perform the same, they must not only first of all reduce every one of their little bands into their simple, and single order of ranks of 3. or 4. or more in every rank; but because that their compartments of 30. ranks 3. in every rank are too short by 10. ranks to make 40. ranks, they must not only incorporate themselves by flanks with the like number of ranks; but also must with pieces of other bands, patch and piece their incorporated Compartments, and after the patching and pie●ing of them, then reduce and form their squadron: which to perform doth require a very long time, and doth greatly confuse & confound the Colonels and Sergeants Majors, and all the rest of the officers of those Regiments to their great disgrace and reproach: whereas contrariwise the 3600. piquers of the. 2 Regiments of 6000. that do consist but of 12. great bands being in the place of Arms reduced into 10. Compartments of 9 piquers in every rank, in each Compertiment from frunt to back, are with great facility, & with out any confusion to be reduced, by doubling themselves by flank, or flanks as aforesaid into the aforesaid squadron of 90. piquers in frunt, and 40. ranks by flanks: which being so, as by all reason and practise Military it is, then if the General should give further order to the three Colonels or Sergeants Majors of all the three Regiments of 9000. that do consist of little bands (as aforesaid) to reduce all their piquers, which according to the proportion and divisions aforesaid, do amount just unto. 5400. piquers; besides the other two parts that are weapons of volee, into one body of squadron of 108. piquers in frunt and of 50. ranks by flank: how wonderfully then would the Sergeants Majors & officers of those Regiments find themselves confused to form so great a squadron of the pieces and patches (as they may be well termed) of. 60. little bands; when every one of those single Compartments do not only lack number in frunt to make convenient compartments to form the frunt of the bat●e with celerity; but also are a great deal too short by flanks to form the aforesaid squadron in number of ranks by flanks and therefore must of necessity, not only incorporate a great number of little Compartments, and pieces of compartments with other little compartments by flanks thereby to make them to come to the just number in frunt of 108. piquers; but also must piece and patch every one of those Compartments with the pieces of other little Compartments in back or Rearward, thereby after to reduce, form, and being their squadron by flanks to have the just length of 50. ranks: which to perform, doth cause so great a disorder and confusion in the officers executing of the directions of the Coronelles and Sergeants Majors, as it is never to make an end: whereof ensueth great noises and rumours, by calling, by swearing, by commanding and countermaunding, and by this and by that.  
Whereas contrariwise, the compartments of piquers of the other three Regiments of great bands of 500 as aforesaid, consisting of 300. piquers to every compertiment, may with great dexterity, quietness and facility, without the aforesaid piecing and patching of compartments with compartments form the aforesaid squadron of 108. in frunt, and 50. by flanks, with their single compartments, without any one band, or compertiment borrowing the one of the other: As for example, to form the aforesaid squadron of 108. piquers in frunt; and 50. ranks by flanks, (the three Regiments of 3000. to every Regiment consisting of 18 bands 500 to every ensign: which of piquers and weapons of volee are in all 9000. Of the which there are 3. parts piquers, and two parts weapons of volee, as aforesaid, that is 5400. piquers, and 3600. soldiers of weapons of volee) the compertimentes of piquers of all those 18. bands consisting every one of 300. piquers, and every one of those compertimentes of 300. being reduced into their simple and single order of 6. in every rank, from frunt to back, are just in number 50. ran●es of 6. soldiers in every rank.  
All which 18. compertimentes of 300. piquers to every compertiment marching every one of them 6. in a rank, (as aforesaid) being led and drawn up by their Captains by the flank, or flanks the one of the other, (according unto any of the orders that I have before very particularly set down for the forming of squadrons and battles) are without any kind of trouble, disorder or rumour, with great facility reduced into the aforesaid battle and squadron of 108. piquers in every rank from frunt to back, and of 50. ranks by flanks, which squadron in all consisteth of 5400. piquers as aforesaid.  
And this dexterity and facility of forming of great squadrons without any disorder or confusion doth proceed of the great compartments that are drawn out of great bands: whereas far otherwise, to form the same said squadron with 60. compartments of 90 piquers, 3. in a rank in every compertiment, drawn out of 60. little bands of 150. 
divers confusions that do ensue of many little compartments of piquers.  to every Ensign, to the intent to form the said squadron: the Captains and officers after that they have reduced every one of their bands into their simple and single order of ranks, (which is the first thing for all services in the field that according to all discipline ought to be performed) must then because their little compartments of 90. piquers do consist but of 30. ranks, 3. in a rank, go and find another compertiment of the like number of another band to join with them by flank, thereby to make their compertiment of 6. in every rank. But because their two compartments incorporated by flanks as aforesaid, do lack 20. ranks of 6. in every rank to make the just length of the squadron by flank that consisteth of 50. ranks: Another Captain must bring his whole compertiment of 90. piquers, which do consist of 15. ranks 6. in a rank, and join them at the back of the other two compartments; and yet those 3. captains must borrow out of another compertiment of a fourth band 5. ranks more of 6. in a rank, which are 30. piquers to make out the full number of 50. ranks, 6. in every rank; so as the fourth Captain that hath lent 30. piquers, doth remain but with a piece of his compertiment of 60. piquers, with the which he must after incorporate, and piece and patch other compartments either to make length by flank, or breadth in frunt. And in this sort or in the like with small difference all the 〈◊〉 compartments of 90. piquers in each compertiment as aforesaid must in corporate, piece and patch by flanks and back all the rest of their compartments, and pieces of compertimentes until they have form their squadron: which kind of reducing, piecing and patching, to form a squadron, doth breed such a wonderful confusion in such a number of little compartments dispersed in the fields, as the Sergeants Majors and other chief commanders will find themselves wonderfully confused and confounded in their directions for the forming of their squadron, 
H●ere it is to be noted tha● although the Author doth praise & allow great bands of 500 in the which divers different sorts of weapons are incorporated, to be more convenient for the forming of squadrons then small bands of 150. or 200. of the like different ●or●es of weapons: yet he doth not disallow that in a puissant army there should be some small bands of 100L. or 150. amongst the great: but those only of weapons of volee, as of Archers or harquebuziers, incorporated with some convenient numbers of halberdiers or battle axes, for divers purposes,  and the Captains and other inferior officers in the performing and executing of the same.  
And as these before alleged confusions and disorders do ensue in forming of a squadron of piquers with such little compartments: even so doth there ensue as great or greater confusions in reducing a far greater number of little compertimentes of weapons of volee, that do consist of three different sorts of weapons, as of Archers, mosquetiers and harquebuziers, into divers forms and employments; All which reducementes of squadrons into form with sleeves, wings, troops, and forlorn hopes of weapons of volee, and other such like do require four or five times longer time to perform, then with a few great compartments of piquers & weapons of volee out of bands of 500 to reduce such great squadrons into form as aforesaid with sleeves, wings, forlorn hopes, etc. of weapons of volee, as all men that are not obstinately ignorant may by that which I have before declared most manifestly see.  
The testimony and proof whereof was evidently seen at such time as there were certain great squadrons form, or rather with great disorder, trouble, and confusion wonderfully deformed here in Essex the year 1588. Which proceeded of nothing so much as of the lack of understanding of such as should have reduced the whole Army into great bands of 500 to every Ensign, with convenient and well sorted compertimentes, or of 400. or of 300. to every Ensign at the fewest. Whereas far otherwise, the bands of the whole Army did consist of divers different numbers, as of 150. of 200 of 300. of 400. of 500 and of 600. to an ensign, and in all those bands, the compertimentes of the different sorts of weapons were so ill sorted, and in so great disproportion, as the same with the lack of skill of such as should have reform those imperfections, were the very causes that when they went about to reduce and form any squadron with sleeves, wing●s, &c: they fell into many errors and confusions, as all those that were there of any understanding in matters military might evidently see. Upon all which reasons and examples of reducing of great and small bands into squadrons with so many imperfections, confusions, and failings as are incident and do ordinarily ensue in reducing of little compartments of small bands into divers forms of squadrons with sleeves, wings, forlorn hopes, etc., with the great perfections and easiness of reducing the great compertimentes of great bands into all sorts of forms with great facility as is before declared, considered; I come to conclude that the aforesaid Lieutenant General, or any other Chieftain of right understanding, observation and judgement, would form the footmen of his Army into great bands, and not into such small bands as are before mentioned. And thus far concerning the proving that great bands of 500 are more convenient for all purposes and employments, then small bands of 150. or 200. are.   

Concerning Ensigns and Ensignebearers of private bands of footmen, as also concerning the Standard, and Standard bearer of an Emperor, or of a King.  
Here it is to be noted, because Ensignebearers of footmen are to march in the midst of the armed men, aswell in squadrons as in private bands; and therewithal to be ever ready to take their places upon the assembling, reducing, or marching of such bands: that they with their Ensigns ought to be lodged in their captains tents or lodgings, 
Where Ensig●bearers footm● are ●o be lo●ged.  or very near unto their Captains; always accompanied with one of the drummers, and the phifer of the band; & the other to accompany the Captain. And in case there be but only one drummer and a phiser, than they are always to accompany and lodge where the Lieutenant and ensignebearer with his Ensign in their soldiers quarter do lodge; and that, in respect, that they may with all celerity by the stroke and sound of the drum assemble their band upon all sudden Alarms, or mutinies or other accidents.  
Also it is to be noted that an Ensignebearer in the field, 
How an Ensigneb●arer in service in the field ought to carry his Ensign.  caring his Ensign displayed aught 〈◊〉 carry the same upright, and never, neither in town nor field, nor in sport, nor earnest to fetch flourishes about his head with his Ensign staff, & taffeta of his Ensign, as the En●ignebearers of London do upon midsummer night; because that such flourishes in all true discipline are holden for mockeries: Howbeit sometimes to advance, lift up; and raise his Ensign higher upon certain occasions it it very allowable.  
Also an Ensignebearer carrying his Ensign wound up about the Ensign staff, 
Ensigns of ● convenient breadth and length more better than Ensigns that are very large.  or else he carrying the same open, & leaning it to his shoulder, aught marching down a hill to gather together the lower part of the taffeta of his Ensign in such sort as it may not touch the ground: And therefore Ensigns of a convenient size and not too large and great, 
With what respect the halberds that are for the guard of the Ensigns are to march.  are far better and more convenient than Ensigns that are very large.  
Also the halbarders that do march in the rank of the Ensigns, and are for the guard of them ought to carry their halberds with such respect as they ought not to tear nor touch any part of the Ensigns as near as they can possible. 
How ensign-bearers upon the sight and near approach of the enemy are to manage their ●●signes.   
Also all Ensignebearers marching in the field either amongst their single companies, or being reduced into squadron upon the discovery of the Enemy are presently to unwind, open & display their Ensigns: but yet if the wind be great, they may gather together the lower part or taffeta of their Ensigns, and lean the Ensignestaffe and Ensign to their shoulders until they approach nearer to the enemy; at which time all Ensignebearers ought to display and advance their ensigns carrying them in their left hands, to the intent that they may be the more ready upon the near approach and encountering with the enemy, with their right hands to draw their sword and defend their Ensigns, by reason that they ought not to fight nor thrust with the points of their ensign staves, but only in assaults of Towns, or upon some other great extremity, but to carry them upright, and sometimes advanced to the intent that they may be still in the sight of their soldiers.  
Also if any Ensignebearer or ensignebearers in their band or bands, 
How an Ensignebearer marching by an Emperor or king, or their Lieutenant general is to behave himself.  happen to march by an Emperor or King, or by the Lieutenant General, they ought to carry them displayed and advanced, and when they come almost over against such a Prince or his Lieutenant General, they ought to pull down their ensigns lower, & bow down forward the point and taffeta of their ensign or ensigns, not directly towards the prince, or Lieutenant General, but directly towards the way that they are marching: and at the same instant, they ought also to bow something forward their heads and bodies, in token of respect and reverence, without any ways moving or touching their burgonets, which ought to be always fast tied with a taffeta under their chins.  
Also when a single band or company of soldiers or a squadron of divers bands marching in the fields shall come to advance their pikes and make a stay, 
How ensign-bearers are to use their ensigns when the squadron maketh a pause.  or pause, than the Ensignebearer of that single band if it be alone, or all the Ensignebearers of a whole squadron must display and advance their Ensigns.  
Also a squadron of divers bands marching in the fields, it is lawful for all the Ensignebearers in their rank or ranks of Ensigns to carry their Ensigns wound up about their Ensignestaves, 
How all the ensignebearers of a squadron marching in the field are 〈◊〉 carry their Ensigns.  rested or leaned to their shoulders so as in the rank of Ensigns or in each rank of Ensigns, if the squadron be so great that there be more than one rank of Ensigns, that one Ensignebearer in each rank must carry his Ensign open and displayed: and he during the time that he so carrieth his Ensign ought to be in the midst of the rank of the Ensigns, until such time as he to ease himself doth wind up his Ensign, and retire again to his own place, be it on the right or left hand, leaving the middle place to the Ensignebearer that doth succeed and supply his place with his banner or Ensign displayed. But it is to be noted that in a squadron whereas there be divers Ensigns, for some of them to carry their ensigns wound up and leaned against their shoulders & others displayed, uprighted, and advanced, and other ensignebearers also their ensigns opened and leaned to their shoulders, it is very unsoldiorlike and uncomely to see such variety of carrying of ensigns in one squadron, & therefore either they ought all to carry their ensigns wound up and leaned against their shoulders saving only one ensignebearer with his ensign displayed, uprighted, or advanced as aforesaid; or in case in calm weather or upon any other occasion, the ensignebearers like not so to do, than they may carry them all opened & displayed, but in any wise all after one sort, saving only he that is the chief ensignebearer for the time, who ought to carry his ensign upright, opened & displayed, although all ●y other ensignebearers do carry their ensigns wound up as aforesaid.  
But all this before notwithstanding, 
All ensign-bearers are to receive their directions from the Standard bearer of the Emporor or king 〈◊〉 he be in the field.  here it is to be noted that in case an Emperor or a kings Standard be in any battle or squadron of footmen in the field, that then all the ensignebearers of private bands are to receive their orders & directions from the Standerbearer of the same Emperor or King, whether they shall carry their ensigns wound up, or any ways open, with all other directions.  
And also it is to be noted that the said standardbearer with his standard, or his deputy standardbearer, when the standardbearer is disposed to ease himself, 
Where the Standeardbearer of an Empep or king should be pla●e●.  is always to hold the middle and chief place of the rank of ensigns, and therewithal that he should never display his Standard, as other ensignebearers of private bands do, but only upon the assured doubt and expectation of battle, the enemy's Army being in sight in the field, 
When the Standardbeaerr of an Emperor or of a king is to display his standdard.  or else upon some other great and principal occasion; and yet not then neither without the special commandment of the prince or his Lieutenant General: which said displaying of the Prince's standard, aught to be performed with certain notable respects, prayers, and ceremonies: which because I do not certainly know them all, I omit. And therewithal it is to be further noted that the standardbearer of an Emperor or King being always either a Nobleman or a Knight, doth seldom himself carry the standard, but upon certain great occasions, and therefore he hath always. 2. or. 3. esquires of great reputation and valot to supply his place in carrying the standard, the enemy being not in sight in the field; but the enemy being in sight, he is presently to leave his horse and to retire himself into the squadron and rank of ensigns, ready to take his standard into his own hands upon any important occasion: And besides when he cometh near to the place where he shall lodge, 
Cerren other particularities concerning the Standard and Standdardbearer of an Emperor or of a King.  be it in Camp or Town which ought to be in the Lieutennante generals lodging or at lea●t very near unto the same, he then being on foot, must himself with great respect & reverence take and carry the standard be it imperial, or royal, and place it in his lodging under a strong and very convenient guard of soldiers, and so likewise in the morning upon the occasion of dislodging he himself being strongly accompanied aught to take the standard into his own hands, and to march and take his place according to the direction of the Prince or his Lieutenant general, which being by him performed, he may then deliver the standard unto one of his deputies giving unto him a great charge therewith, and so march out of the battle & then take his horse and ride a little either before the squadron to ease himself, or else to accompany the Prince or the Lieutenant General if any of them both be near unto the same battle or else not. And these particularities concerning these matters aforesaid are such as I do at this present remember, although there be others that I have in times past observed which with length of time I have forgotten.   

Certain orders, directions and brief speeches to be used unto Harqueb●ziers, Piquers, and battleaxes, when they are in skirmish with their enemies in the field.  
SKirmishes both on horseback and on foot do begin upon such, and so many divers, and infinite occasions when two puissant Armies that are enemies one to the other are in the field, as no man is able to particular the number of them: And therefore I will as not requisite overpass them; But because hitherunto I have handled the ordering, reducing and forming more particularly of footmen then of horsemen, I will by the help of Almighty God in this place proceed to certain orders, directions and brief speeches, that are to be used unto bands of harquebuziers entering into skirmish, or being in skirmish; as also how they should be reduced into divers orders and forms for divers effects and purposes: which when I have performed, I will then proceed to the reducing and ordering of other weapons of volee, as of mosquetiers, and archers into their convenient forms. And therefore it is first to be noted that there be 4. different and principal ways for bands of harquebuziers to enter into skirmish 
4 different ●nd principal w●i●s for harquebuziers to enter into skirmish.  and to maintain themselves being in skirmish, which although they seem not much to differ, yet their differences are so great, as they are to be observed by all skilful leaders and conductors of harquebuziers, and by the soldiers themselves.  
Of the which 4. the first is upon some occasions to skirmish only with lose shot, 
The first way for harquebuzers to enter into skirmish.  backed some good & convenient distance behind them with light armed halberdiers: yea and of piquers also in case they doubt the charge of horsemen, but then those lose shot must divide themselves into small societies either of 3. or else of 4. harquebuziers to second and supply one another's place: and that is to be understood in this sort: Incase that they do divide themselves into societies of three, then have they but only three dischargings, and that is when the foremost soldior hath in travessing his ground & with good advisement discharged at the enemy, and travessing his ground doth retire behind his fellows to charge again; that then the second harquebuzier should advance forward to espy some advantage to discharge his arqebus, not in haste at the air, but with leisure at his enemy that he espieth standing still or in slow motion; which when he hath performed, and travessing his ground, he doth retire: then the third harquebuzier advancing forward and travessing his ground should with good advisement discharge his piece at the enemy that he espieth standing still or in slow motion, whilst the other two harquebuziers his companions, before retired do charge again: which by him performed, than he is to travesse his ground and to begin again to charge, retiring beehind, and something wide of the hindermost of the three. And by this kind of lose skirmishing of many societies of three dispersed in the field, 
The commodities that ensue to harquebuziers by this first way of skirmishing.  the foremost of every three next unto the enemy with his piece charged, travessing his ground, and espying when to discharge his piece effectually (as aforesaid) doth give time and leisure, to the other two of his society retired behind, to charge their pieces again: But because that the chief effect of harquebuziers in skirmish doth consist principally in three things; 
Three principal ways wherein the chief effects of harquebuziers in skirmish do consist.  that is, in the well charging of their pieces, which cannot be well performed without convenient time and leisure; the second, in leisurely discharging, although not from steady and firm point at blank; which can be seldom performed at men, or by men in motion; and therefore they are to take their sights at the ends of their pieces, at such their enemies as are in slowest motion, and so make the best point and blank that they may by guess from the ends of their pieces.  
And the third which is of no less importance than the former two is; that harquebuziers do not discharge their pieces at the enemy out of convenient distances; for if they do, then how well soever they have charged their pieces, and with what leisure and advisement soever they do discharge the same at men in motion, they do work very little or no effect, as well in respect that no harquebuziers how good soever they be, can take their sights so certainly from point at blank in a great distance, as they may in a much nearer distance; as also that they can a great deal less take their sights from the ends of their pieces at their enemies in motion a great distance off, although it be within the points and blanks of their pieces: besides many other causes and particularities concerning the same in my book of discourses by me set forth 1590. contained: 
Harquebuzie●● in skimish are not to discharge their pieces above 20. 30. or 40 paces in distance.  All which well considered, it doth behove all good and skilful harquebuziers not to discharge their pieces above 20. 30. or 40. paces at the uttermost, although their pieces will carry point and blank a much greater distance.  
But here it is to be noted that this kind of skirmishing of lose shot of societies of three is not so good by a great deal as to skirmish in societies of 4. 
Societies of three not so good by a great deal for harquebuziers to skirmish in as societies of foures.  in every society; and that by reason that every foremost harquebuzier of 4. next to the enemy discharging his piece as effectually as he may and retiring behind the hindermost of his society to charge again, whilst the second advancing forward and traversing his ground doth supply the place of the first harquebuzier that did first discharge and is now retired as aforesaid, and so consequently the third harquebuzier upon the discharging of his fellow before him, (that at the first was the second) to advance and supply his place, and then again the fourth that did first of all discharge, and hath now again very well charged hi● piece, doth (upon the dischargeing and retiring of his fellow before him) advance forward, and travessing his ground supply his place: which orderly discharging & recharging again, and discharging, & recharging again and again with good advisement, doth by the societies of 4. give more time and leisure to every harquebuzier that hath discharged his piece to retire and charge very well again without heating of his piece, than societies of three aforesaid can do, considering that in those skirmishes of lose shot, it is convenient that only one of every society of 4. should be foremost, and should discharge alone to the intent aswell to give leisure to their fellows one after another to recharge again, as also to have 2. or 3. harquebuziers continually ready with their pieces charged one after another still to advance forward and supply the others place ready to discharge at the enemy. For if they should discharge 2. or 3. or all at one time, then upon their error espied by the enemies, and taking the advantage thereof by a sudden approach, they should find themselves unsupplied and unsuccoured, the one of the other to their great danger and mischief.  
But here it may be demanded what I do call the well charging of pieces of weapons of fire? Whereunto I answer, That I do allow neither arqebus nor mosquet for well charged in services of the field, 
Now harquebusses and mosquets ought to be charged.  unless they be charged with convenient charges of powder, and with soft brown paper, or the refuge ends of matches, or something else, with their scouring sticks thrust close to the powder to restrain the same, and likewise upon the bullet the like or a more quan●●●●● to keep close and restrain the bullet: or when at the least, I would that some such thing should be thrust upon the bullet with the scouring stick to keep the same close to the powder; & therewithal to the intent that every soldier upon his lack of bullets might use his fellows bullets, I would that all the harquebusses throughout the field should be of one Caliver and height; 
All the harq●● buzes through out the field ought to be of one Caliver ● height.  and that all the ordinary bullets for the field, I mean not the full bullets that first with great leisure they charge their pieces withal before they march out of the Camp, which are or aught to be of the just Caliver and height of their harquebusses, 
All the ordinary bullets for the field ought not to be above 2. bores lower than the height of their pecees.  but the ordinary bullets for skirmish: that those bullets I say should not be above two bores lower than the height of their pieces, whereas far otherwise the most bullets for the field here in England as well of Mosquets as of harquebusses are 4. 5. and many 6. bores lower than the height of the pieces, which with the soldiers not restraining the powder nor bullets as aforesaid, 
The discommodities of bullets that are 4. 5. or 6. bores lower than the height of their pieces.  is the cause, that the powder how good soever doth neither carry the bullets so far point and blank, nor yet do give so violent blows as being otherwise well charged with more full bullets they would do, nor yet can possibly shoot with any certainty, although it were from a steady rest either at horses or men standing still within point and blank, by reason that such bullets do naturally mount and fly wide, how true soever the pieces are, besides that the powder for lack of restraining as aforesaid, doth lie in the Cannon of the piece lose, and the bullet through the too much smallness thereof in comparison of the piece doth upon every little accident fall out and drop to the ground: where as ordinary bullets for the field, that are not above two bores lower than the height of their pieces, do carry the bullets (the pieces being otherwise true and well charged as aforesaid) further point and blank, and with a great deal more certainty: and beside do give a more forcible blow as aforesaid then such over small bullets can do.  
But now the second way of skirmishing is, 
The second way for harqu●buziers to skirmish in.  that such little societies of three and of fowers may skirmish by discharging their pieces, almost, or near about one time: but that must be performed by the discharging and retiring to charge again of such little troops, other such little societies of like numbers that are a convenient way distant upon both their flanks but something retired, and therefore have kept their shot, advancing forward, as well to espy some advantage to give their volees at their enemies effectually, as to give time and leisure to other little troops that have discharged, and therefore retired to recharge and advance forward again.  
The third way of skirmishing is of greater troops as of 6. of 9 of 12. of 15. of 18. or of 21. 
The third way of skirmish.  And this kind of skirmishing in so great troops doth resemble the first mentioned skirmishing of lose shot of 3. soldiers in every society, and that in this sort; that even as the societies of 3. did divide themselves into 3. single discharginges as aforesaid, so must these greater troops divide their dischargings into 3. volees: as for example, if the troop be of 6. then the 2. foremost may discharge at or near about one time, and then travessing their grounds retire behind the hindermost two, to charge again, whilst the two second being now foremost do advance forward to espy their advantage to discharge effectually: which when they have performed, than they likewise are to retire again recharging until they be hindermost, giving place unto their next two fellows to give their vol●e as aforesaid: which being by the second two performed, then are the last two (who did first discharge and have now recharged again) to advance forward again towards the enemy to give time to their fellows retired to recharge again: but if the troops be of greater numbers as of 9 then their divisions of volee are of 3. harquebuziers at a time, as those of 6. were but of two; and so likewise their troops being of 12. then their divisions of discharging are likewise of 3. volees, that is 4. to discharge at or near about one time: And in case that the troops be of 15. then they are to divide their discharginges into 3. volees of 5. at a time, that is of 3. times 5. And in case that the troops be so great as of 18. then they are likewise to divide their volees into 3. times 6. 
No tr●●ps of shot are to give their volees in divisions above the numberof ●1.  harquebuziers: And if of 21. then of 3. times 7. harquebuziers, every 7. to give their volees one after another in the order and sort before declared, greater than the which for divers causes I would have no troops of harquebuziers in the field for to give their volees in three divisions as aforesaid.  
But now the fourth sort of giving of volees in troop, 
The fourth way of skirmishing.  is of 4. divisions, which resembleth the second discharging of lose shot of societies of 4. harquebuziers, for as those societies of 4. soldiers did divide themselves into 4. single discharginges for the causes aforesaid, so these greater troops are to divide themselves into 4. dischargings or volees, and that in this sort: the smallest troop that are to perform the same are. 8. which number is to be divided into. 4. volees of two of the foremost harquebuziers to discharge or give their volee at or near about one time, and to retire to charge again & give place to their fellows as aforesaid, and so subsequently, all the rest by two harquebuziers continually advanced to discharge, and other 2. continually retiring to recharge to perform the like: and in case that their troops be of 12. then they may divide their volees into 4. as of. 3. harquebuziers to give their volee at one time, and if they be of 16. then their divisions of volee may be of 4. harquebuziers all at one time, and in case that their troops be of 20. then their. 4. divisions of volee may be of 5. harquebuziers at a time, greater than the which number of 20. or 21. as aforesaid I would not in mine opinion for divers causes have any troops of shot in skirmish to give their volees: which 4. divisions of volee, by discharging, retiring, advancing, and discharging, retiring and advancing again and again with continual volees, doth give more time and leisure to every foremost division of harquebuziers with good advisement to discharge their pieces, and to retire & rechgarge their pieces orderly and very well again, than the divisions of three dischargings or volees aforesaid, for lack of convenient time can do, as all men of any consideration may evidently see by the particularities by me before set down. But here it is to be noted that the 2. first little societies of 3. & of 4. soldiers divided into three single discharginges, and the other of 4. harquebuziers into 4. single discharginges are to be accounted skirmishing and discharging of lose shot, whereas all the rest are to be accounted skirmishing in troops.  
And further that all the aforesaid little societies and greater and smaller troops of shot, are in their foresaid skirmishes to be ordered overseen and conducted by their corporals, and all the Corporals by their higher officers; and all these different sorts o● skirmishing in societies of lose shot, as also in troops I have particularly set down because I have known some Conductors of arqebus shot, Italians, Spaniards, & of other Nations that have used to skirmish by their soldiers giving of their volees in three divisions, and some other conductors of the same Nations that have caused their harquebuziers to give their volees in 4. divisions in such sort as is before declared.  
But now besides all this, 
The skirmishing of lose shot in hubbledeshu●●e.  there is another kind of skirmishing of lose shot, and that is when unskilful harquebuziers Novices are lead out to skirmish by as unskilful conductors, that those harquebuziers do never divide themselves into chosen societies of three, of foures, or any s●ch numbers, nor into little troops, as aforesaid, the one to take care of the other, and to give time and leisure to discharge and recharge with order as aforesaid, but that they are lead in skirmish by their officers in great troops of. 25. or 30. harquebuziers together or more, wheeling about & following one another so thick and so n●re as they resemble a sport that I have seen little boys play, hanging one upon another's long coat when there have been many of them together, called, Why Puttock away, or else that every one of his own head do go thick & threefold or dispersed to discharge at the enemy with all fury, 
Discommodities ensuing by this manner of skirmishing.  by which disorderly and furious skirmishing, it cometh to pass that the harquebuziers do discharge in haste without advisement, to small or no hurt to the enemy, and therewithal by their discharging, charging, and recharging as fast as they can, they suddenly heat their pieces and make them unprofitable, & oftentimes do by such disorderly skirmishing, kill, or mischief one another: And beside, if any of them happen to be wounded or hurt because they have not divided themselves into chosen societies as aforesaid, none do take care to secure and relieve such hurt & wounded soldiers, nor to draw away and save their dead carcases according to the use of all warlike Nations, with divers other Inconveniences that I omit, which do ensue upon such disorderly skirmishing: And this kind of skirmishing may be very well termed to skirmish in hubbledeshuffe. But yet it is further to be noted that in most skirmishes that are well performed in the open fields, although they do skirmish in such troops of 3. or 4. divisions of volees as aforesaid, yet such skirmishes are first begun by small societies of three and of fowers, besides that it is always convenient that such troops of shot should be backed with some numbers of light armed halbarders and piquers for such causes as hereafter shall be mentioned.  
But because that in all matters military how well ordered at the first soever, there happeneth upon divers accidents disorder, either through the fault or lack of skill of the conductors, or else through the negligence or lack of skill of the soldiers conducted: I will now proceed to show how the chief commanders & directors of such skirmishes should by brief speeches redress & reform all such disorders happened: as for example, If the chief leaders & directors of the skirmish, shall see the lose shot in their societies as aforesaid, or any of the troops of shot before mentioned to skirmish too thick and near together whereby they may endanger one another, or receive the greater annoyance from the shot of their Enemies, being more thin and dispersed in their distances: then he is to say unto such societies or troops, Enlarge soldiers enlarge, 
●riefe spea●es to be used ●hot when ●●y are too ●●cke in skirmish, by their ●aders.  which being by the harquebuziers heard, they then should presently enlarge themselves more thinner, and into greater, but yet convenient distances, as well the societies of the lose shot of three, and foures, as also such troops of shot as are before mentioned, thereby to discharge with great order and dexterity, seconding & supplying the one the others place, as also each one to secure the one the other in case of any wounds or hurts received according to the directions by me before very particularly set down.  
And if it happen as your soldiers are in skirmish or marching towards, or entering into skirmish or retiring, that you do perceive and espy any ground or grounds of advantage for your arqebus or mosquet shot to work any good effect against your enemies, either by ambush or otherwise as of hills, banks, trenches, caves, woods, shrubs, vines, or any other thing to encover your shot, than you are to say to so many societies or troops of your soldiers as you shall think meet for that effect; 
●riefe speeches 〈◊〉 be used to ●ot upon any round or rounds of adauntage e●●ied.  To your advantage soldiers to your advantage, and therewithal you must name the advantage and strength that they should prevent the enemies of, be they banks, hedges, trenches, hills, or any other strength, which being by them heard, they must presently perform the same.  
And in case that you being in skirmish do see any reason of advantage to draw the lose shot of societies or troops, or both, more on the one side, then on the other, that is more to the right hand then to the left; than you are to say unto them, Wing, Wing soldiers to the right. And if to the left hand than you may say, Wing, Wing soldiers to the left. 
●erten other cleave speeches ● be used unto ot for divers ●rposes.  And if you see that the enemies have spent their powder and heated their pieces, and that your advantage is to approach them with more fury, than you are to say Advance, Advance forward soldiers. And in case your soldiers being in skirmish, you shall see your advantage to reduce some of your lose shot into troops of 6. of 9 of 12 or of 15. or more, be the numbers even or odd it importeth not, so as the particularities by me before set down be always observed, in such sort that the one troop may favour and flank the other; then in passing amongst them you are to say to your Corporals and soldiers. Troupe, troop, and flank soldiers.  
And if you find your soldiers overpressed with number of shot, or that your soldiers with long skirmish have almost spent their powder or heated their pieces, than you are to say. Retire, retire, and frunt soldiers, which being by them heard they must retire still with their faces towards their Enemies, discharging their pieces not too fast, lest that they should find themselves to their own mischief altogether without powder.  
And in case that you have piquers or halbarders to back your shot (which you should never be without,) and that you see that your Enemies as also your own soldiers by long skirmish have spent much of their powder and heated their pieces, and that your shot with the shot of your enemies are ready to enter pellemelle, than you are to say to your piquers and halbarders: Charge charge and execute soldiers: which being by you pronounced they are to enter with all fury upon their enemies, and with puissant hand to do execution upon them. 
The harquebusses of a yard long the Cannon and lanfor ced backward, of as great and greater effects than the heavy Calivers that are nowadays in use.  And here it is to be noted that harquebusses of a yard long the Cannons at the most, well ranforced backward, & of a convenient thinness forward, and the bullets of a convenient Caliver or height not too great, are a great deal more maniable, and therefore better for soldiers to use in the field, than such heavy harquebusses as we in these days do miscall Calivers, that are of great bullets, and the Cannons long and heavy with deformed stocks: which said harquebusses ranforced of convenient heveth & lightness will wound or kill as well 50. or 60. paces off (which is distance enough) as any such heavy mistearmed Calivers▪ & therewithal they do not so soon weary the soldiers in handling and using them in services of the field as such foresaid heavy pieces do, besides that they have this commodity that when in skirmish soldiers do grow very near together, and so sometimes pelle melle that they have no more leisure to recharge their pieces but that they are forced to betake themselves to their sword: they may then I say take their pieces being of such convenient heveth & lightness, in the midst with their left hands and drawing their sword may bear a blow either at the head or legs, or beat by any thrust of sword, halberd, or pique, either with the upper or lower part of their arqebus, and may therewithal at that instant enter and run in with the points of their sword to the mischief or endangering of their enemies, which cannot be performed with our such heavy mistearmed Calivers, which most commonly upon such accidents through the too much heveth of them are thrown away by the soldiers that use them. Advertising further, that whensoever your soldiers be in skirmish with the enemy in the plain and open fields, that your harquebuziers be always instructed never to discharge their pieces nor give any volee of shot at their evemies above 20. 30. or 40. 
But small effect ●rought by harquebusses in skirmish above 50. paces off  paces distant, or 50. at the uttermost: For it is to be noted that to discharge or give any volee, or volees of shot at the enemy in skirmish any greater distance than 50. paces, the same doth work but very little effect; by reason that such weapons of fire are in those actions so uncertain, as all Captains and soldiers that are of experience in matters of Arms do very well know; although I have divers times heard some talk and tell how they have seen skirmishes whereas the harquebuziers have discharged their pieces at their enemies, 
A very scorn ●o give volees of arqebus shot at the enemy 10. 12. or 14 scores of.  10. 12. or 14. scores of, which (considering the very small effect that such discharginges and volees do work against the enemy) is to be holden for a very great scorn and error military, for such harquebusses as do use to skirmish so far off, are more meet by all reason and true experience to scare Crows in a corn field, then to work any good effect against their enemies in the field.   

Brief speeches to be used by Captains or leaders, of Harquebuziers when they would reduce them into a broad square with distances obliqne.  
IF a Captain or leader of harquebuziers would upon any occasion or advantage of ground reduce any number of harquebuziers into a broad square or hearse obliqne of 7. ranks, with intent that they may have the more convenient distances for the discharging of their volees, than they are to say unto them: Obliqne yourselves harquebuziers 21. and 20. in ranks, or any other numbers greater or fewer, so as the first rank do exceed the second rank by the number of one, and the third, the fourth likewise by the number of one, and so consequently in the same sort to the last seventh rank which should be of equal number to the first: Then the harquebuziers presently are to reduce themselves into the form obliqne, 
What distan●● obliqne do● means.  all the harquebuziers of every second rank being fewer in number then the greater rank preceding them by the number of one should place themselves obliqne to the rank before them, that is, they should place every one of themselves with their faces directly towards the void places or distances of the greater rank before them saving that the last rank as aforesaid, must be of equal number to the first rank, to the intent that the same may be a formed and proportioned hearse that is broad in frunt and narrow by flanks.  
And all those harquebuziers being reduced into this form obliqne with convenient and proportionate distances, may through those distances obliqne give gallant volees to the great mischief of their enemies, without hurting or endamaging the one the other: And because that these distances obliqne may seem strange to such as never saw horsemen or footmen reduced into that form: So it is that I have many times seen in Hongarie in the Wars of Emperor MAXI MILIAN against the Turks, the harquebuziers, 
〈…〉 lique altogether used by the harquebusses and light horsemen Hongarians and other oriental nations.  Hongarians called by the name of Heydukes' march and serve in those orders and distances obliqne: And so in like manner the horsemen Hongarians being all light horsemen and called by the name of Vssarons although I have seen them in the field in many and divers orders and forms, yet their distances were most commonly obliqne; which order obliqne is also used by the Turks, Tartars, and other such oriental Nations: because that all their horsemen are light horsemen and not men at Arms, 
The Persians only of all the oriental nations do use men at Arms.  saving that the Persians only of all the rest of the oriental Nations do use both men at arms with their horses barbed, as also light horsemen. And this aforesaid order obliqne is of great advantage for all light horsemen in the field, and chiefly for such as do use to charge their spears, 
Distances obliqne in the field of great advantage for all light horsemen.  as the Hongarians do, in sockets made fast to their Saddles, or as our light horsemen borderers that do charge their spears upon their thighs, as also for such light horsemen Stradiots as will after the manner of the Moors, use double headed Lances, or zagayas by some called punching staves for divers causes and reasons, that I am able by the help of Almighty God to show by effectual demonstrations in the field, Of the which some I did show this jast Summer 1588. in exercises of the field, unto divers Captains and Gentlemen of the shire of Essex.   

Speeches to be used to a broad square, or to any ordered troop of harquebuziers being in a strait or ground of advantage, where horsemen cannot charge them.  
WHen a good number of harquebuziers are reduced into a square or troop form not in ranks obliqne but by right line to flank a breach or to make head against the enemy in some strait or passage, or that the place is such and of that strength for the guard of the harquebuziers that it is more requisite that they should make resistance against the enemy in some square or troop form then any ways dissevered or in troops confused, than the leaders upon the approach of the enemy are to say unto them Discharge soldiers & to your knees, and charge again volee after volee: 
How harquebuziers are to give their volees being reduced into a square in some ground of advantage.  which being by them heard, the first and second rank being in ranks of convenient distances, are at one instant to give a volee as near as they can, taking their sights at point and blank, which being done, they ought in an instant to fall upon one of their knees and to charge again while the third and fourth ranks do likewise give their volees, which being by them performed, they ought in like manner to kneel down and charge their pieces, giving place to the fist, and sixth ranks to discharge their pieces over all their heads, which being performed throughout the whole hearse or troop, saving that the two hinder ranks shall not need to kneel because there are none behind them to shoot over their heads, than all the first ranks that have charged their pieces again are to stand up & to give volee after volee, and so to their knees again, and to give place to the hindermost ranks to discharge their pieces over their heads according to the former prescribed order: But to the intent that two ranks may the better give a volee both at one instant without daungering the one the other as aforesaid, it were requisite that every second rank should be reduced obliqne as aforesaid to the rank preceding, for otherwise there can but only one rank discharge at a time unless their ranks be very thin.   

Brief speeches to be used to Mosquetiers being in a broad square.  
WHen a convenient company of mosquetiers well guarded with armed men are reduced into a broad square of 15. or 20. in frunt, and 6. by flanks, more or fewer, and that all their rests be fixed in the ground in convenient distances, and that their conductors upon the approach of the enemy would have them to give volee after volee from their rests, taking their certain sights from point at blank, and that every rank should orderly succeed the one the other in discharging their pieces; then they are to say unto them, Discharge, retire, and advance, which being by the mosquetiers heard, 
How mosquetiers are to discharge their pieces being reduced into a ●●oade square  than the first whole rank taking their sights at point and blank are all at one time to discharge their pieces at the squadron or troop of horsemen or footmen approaching, which being by them performed they are presently to retire to the last rank of rests there to charge again, leaving their own rank of rests still fixed in the ground. Then the second rank are to advance themselves and to clap their pieces upon the first rank of rests as they do stand directly before them, and the third rank are to advance themselves to the second rank of rests, & the fourth rank to the third rank of rests and the fifth rank to the fourth rank of rests, and the sixth rank to the fifth rank of rests, whilst the first that hath discharged, and is now retired to the sixth or last rank of rests do charge their pieces again & so giving continual volees of bullets by discharging, retiring, and advancing as aforesaid, they may annoy the enemy be they horsemen or footmen in terrible sort without falling into any disorder or confusion. And the very like speeches may be used to little squares or troops of harquebuziers in the field when they are to retire having discharged, and other troops to advance and supply their places giving them time to charge again, and so by retiring, advancing, and succeeding every one the other, they may give continual volees of shot at the enemies. Advertising and advising all leaders of mosquetiers that will work good effect and win reputation with that kind of weapon in the field, 
Mosquetiers are not to discharge their pieces at the enemy above 10. or 12. scores 〈◊〉 the furthest.  that they do not permit their mosquetiers to discharge their pieces at their enemies above 8. 9 10. or 12. scores, at the furthest, and therewithal to take their sights at point and blank from their rests and without their rests. Also I would that some convenient numbers of mosquetiers should be commanded to charge their pieces with convenient charges of powder and with 5. pistol bullets of a mean Caliver and height with some quantity of soft brown paper or something else, both betwixt the powder and hail shot of war, 
Mosquets charged with haile-shot of war within 10. 15. or 20. paces do work great effect.  as also after the haileshot to restrain both powder and bullets, to the intent that the same may work the more forcible and terrible effects: And that the same mosquetiers should be commanded not to discharge their pieces when their companies do discharge theirs with single bullets, but that they should reserve their shot until some squardron of footmen, or square, or troop of horsemen should approach within 10. 15. or 20. paces to charge them. At which time I would have them to give their volee of hailshot of war from their rests at their Enemies approaching within the aforesaid distances, and not any further, because they may be the more sure to hit either horsemen or footmen, which in greater distances they cannot so certainly perform.  
And here it is to be further noted, 
It argueth but small experience in those that would have mosquetiers in the field to give their volees of shot 30 24. or 20. scores off.  that such as do talk of giving volees of mosquet shot 30. 24. or 20. scores off, at squares or troops of horsemen or footmen that are in march or in any motion of the field do greatly err, as men that never had any good experience of that weapon in actions of the field, unless peradventure it hath been to their own mischief, encountering with old bands, Italians, Wallouns, or Spaniards, who were never so ill advised as in vain to give their volees so great distances off, and therefore do reserve their shot to discharge at the enemy not above 8. 9 or 10. scores off at the uttermost, although it be at a whole square or troop of horsemen or footmen, unless it were out of some fortification, from whence they may discharge their pieces with full bullets, and Demain puesto, as the Spaniards call it.  
For although the mosquet ranforced and well charged with good powder would carry a bullet point and blank 24. or 30. scores: doth it therefore follow that they should give Volees of mosquet shot 24. or 20. scores off, 
Why mosquetiers are not in the field to give their volees of shot 20 24. or 30. scores off.  when that in failing to take their just point and blank no more but the length of a Corn, their bullets do work as much effect at the stars, as against the enemy that they shoot at; Besides that in so great a distance of ground, how truly soever they take their sights at point and blank, the air doth work very great effect, with their bullets that are lower by 4. or 5. bores then the height of their pieces, to carry them by mounting, or otherwise from the mark or marks that they are shot at.   

Certain Orders, directions, and brief speeches to be observed by a Sergeant Maior, and Captains, and leaders of Archers in the field.  
ALl the most notable and excellent kings and their great captains of our English nation in times past, (who as it is most manifest by many notable histories both ancient and modern) were not any ways inferior in knowledge and skill in the Art and science military to the greatest kings and captains of our age deceased; but did also far exceed and excel all the Princes and Captains of this obscure time of Ignorance in christendom now living, in all proceed and actions military, (as it is most apparent by the many batt●les & great victories by them in divers ages, and against many warlike nations obtained) did (contrary to the vain and frivolous opinions of our new English men of war of this time) so greatly esteem of our archers, 
The account made of archers in times past.  through the continual and great experience they had of their wondered & miraculous effects in all battles and great in countries; that upon the composing & forming of any Army, the same being divided into five parts, always three parts of the five did consist of archers: And because archers in all actions military were so continually & greatly employed, they used to reduce them into the most convenient orders and forms that they could devise for them with their arrows to work their greatest effects, 
The ancient ●orme of reducing of archers ●ere into hearses.  against both horsemen and footmen their Enemies; which was into the form of hearses, which hearses were broad in frunt, and narrow short by flanks, which is to be understood, of many soldiers in every rank; and but of few ranks by flanks; in such sort, as what numbers soever of archers they placed in frunte, that is in every rank, the archers by flank did never exceed the number of 7. or 8. ranks at the most; And the causes and reasons were these: that the archers being reduced into their hearse or hearses, as also into their convenient distances in frunt and by flanks, every one of them without any trouble through the too much nearness of their fellows in the same rank, or by the overmuch nearness of the rank & ranks before them, might, without any impediment shoot and rove of any mean height at their enemies being either horsemen or footmen, over the heads of the rank or ranks before them; and therewithal that the hindersmost ranks, (being so few by flanks as aforesaid) might the more easily see their Enemies that they shoot at: As also that by the fewness of their ranks, the hindermost rank and ranks being the nearer to their Enemies, should the more easily reach their Enemies with their volees of arrows; whereas otherwise if the ranks were many, then by the overpluralitie of ranks the hinder ranks should be deprived of the sight of their Enemies that they should shoot at, and also should be driven to shoot their arrows at their enemies too high a compass, and by such means work the less effect against their enemies.  
All which considered, 
How to reduce archers into Hearses.  I thought good in this place to show how any number of archers should be reduced into the form of a hearse, or divers hearses, which is a thing of great facility to be performed, because that the Captain or Captains of archers have no more to do but to say unto their archers. Rank yourselves archers. 7. in a rank or if they will make a hearse of 8. ranks, than rank yourselves 8 in a rank, (as in the first part of this my book concerning the reducing of single bands into ranks, is very particularly contained); which being by the archers performed throughout the whole band, or as many bands of archers as they will bring into a hearse; then their Captains and conductors are to lead them by the flank and corner of the squadron where those archers shall be reduced into wing; and there drawing those archers as far out, and large from the corner of the squadron as they shall think requisite; and finding the hindermost rank of 7. soldiers, or of 8. if they be disposed to make their flank of 8. archers, to be of such convenient distance from the corner of the squadron as they shall think meet: then the chief Commander of those Archers is presently to go to the midst of that flank where they are to make of flank frunt, and then being a convenient distance from them, he ought to say unto them: Frunt to me Archers, and let this word pass throughout from flank to flank: Upon which his words pronounced, all the soldiers in flank throughout next unto him are presently to turn their faces and weapons towards him and make of flank frunt, and so subsequently all the rest of the archers throughout all the ranks must perform the like. And this making of flank frunt may be performed aswell by the stroke of the drum as by the brief speeches of the commander: which being by them performed, than they must presently reform themselves into their convenient distances both by frunt and flanks, that thereby they may without any impediment give their volees as aforesaid: And thus of a great number of ranks that they were before when they marched in their simple or single order of ranks, as of 7. or else of 8. in a rank from frunt to back, they are now become a great number of Archers in frunt; that is, in every rank, and but only of 7. or else 8 ranks by flanks, which order and form is to be understood and termed a hearse of Archers; and as this hearse is now reduced into a wing either from the right or left corners of the squadron: so may the like wings be drawn from all 4. corners, as also upon the frunt or flanks of the squadron, or any other place or places where it shall please the General of the field, 
Archers reduced into hearses, are never ●o give their volees but upon a sign given  or the Lord Martial to direct or command.  
But here it is to be further noted, that such hearses are not to give any volees of arrows at their Enemies, but only upon a token or sign given unto them by some chief Commander of the hearse, who by his officers is to make all the soldiers of the hearse privy to the same sign and token; And therefore the same Commander and sign giver is to be of good understanding in archery: as also of the distances of grounds, that thereby he may not fail to give his sign when the hindermost archers are within the reach of the former ranks of the enemies be they horsemen or footmen: for if he should fail in the same, whereby the Archers through the too great distance of ground should shoot short, he should then commit a very gross error.  
Also it is to be noted that if the commander of the archers do think it requisite, he may divide the delivery of his archers arrows into two volees, that is, that he may if the hearse do consist of 8. ranks by flanks take order that four of the foremost ranks shall give their first volees, and as the enemies do approach nearer to give order that the other 4. hindermost ranks shall likewise give their volees altogether with the ranks before them. And as the reducing of Archers into these aforesaid forms of hearses are very convenient and of great effect for battles: even so they may be brought into divers other forms according to the situation of the ground or grounds and divers other occasions, and likewise work very great effects.  
But now, whereas there be divers in this time professing Arms, that do greatly disesteem archers, thinking that a far greater number of Archers were not able to encounter with a smaller number of mosquetiers: 
An answer to such as do think archers inferior to mosquetiers in the plain field.  Thereunto I say that that their opinion doth proceed of nothing else, but of their lack of understanding and knowing the wonderful imperfections and failinges that do belong to muskets and mosquetiers in the field, as also of the strange and incredible effects of archers arrows, and therewithal that they did never enter into the consideration that mosquetiers are not to work any effect in the open fields but from their rests fixed in the ground, or some other accidental or natural rests and themselves standing still to take some sight from point at blank, at their enemies when they discharge, which at men in motion with any certainty it is not possible for them to perform, and if they fail in taking their sights at point and blank, than their bullets do fly strait at the Clouds without doing any other hurt; besides that when they have once discharged their first charges of full bullets, or haileshot of war from their rests in case they be forced upon the uncertain coming of the Enemy to remove and new place their rests and charge again, their pieces are so exceeding heavy, and they therewithal so troubled with their rests hanging upon their fingers, that they are driven to a very long recharging of their mosquets again, which recharging if it be not in such particular sort and perfection, as I have before set down, the bullets of their second volee will scarce go within the compass of the height of pikes uprighted, or rather of young trees, as all skilful soldiers that do know their wonderful uncertain effects in services of the field will confess: so as I come to conclude, if the trial were to be made in the open & plain fields betwixt 1500. archers, and 3000. 
1500. archers able to break 3000 mosqueters  mosquetiers without any other weapon of succour either for the one side or for the other, the mosquetiers being reduced into anyformes of greatest advantage and conveniency for mosquetiers that can be devised, those. 1500. archers being reduced into many & many troops of fifteens, of twenties, of five & twenties, of thirty & more or fewer, and they approaching & assailing the mosquetiers both in frunt and by flanks, & giving their volees of arrows in continual motions at the mosquetiers, who if they mean to work any effect of necessity must stand still to discharge their pieces as aforesaid during which time of their standing still they shall to their great error and mischief receive the continual volees of the archers arrows, upon all parts of their bodies, in such sort as the archers there is no doubt, being well instructed and led in their troops by their Captains and other officers, 
The advantage that archers have of mosquetiers.  would with great facility with a very few volees of arrows break all the mosquetiers, although they were of a far greater number: For although mosquets will carry their bullet's point and blank a great deal further distance than archers are able to work any effect with their arrows; yet their wonderful uncertenties (many of the particularities whereof I have in other my books very particularly set down) are such and so many, as against archers reduced into great numbers of troops as aforesaid, and assailing them in motion with infinite volees of arrows, they would be found to be of a wonderful, & incredible small resistance against the blows of such innumerable arrows as aforesaid.  
Howbeit peradventure some professing arms will say, that harquebuziers may with a great deal more advantage encounter with Archers than mosquetiers, 
Their opinion that think harquebuziers of greater advantage to encounter with archers then mosquetiers refuted.  because that harquebuziers may encounter with Archers divided into great numbers of societies and troops, and therewithal may give their volees of bullets in motion at the archers, aswell as the archers their volees of arrows in motion at them. Whereunto I answer, that if the volees of mosquetiers bullets from their rests be so uncertain at men in motion as I have before mentioned, then of necessity the volees of harquebuziers, themselves discharging in motion, at the archers likewise in motion must needs be a great deal more uncertain: besides that if harquebuziers do discharge 9 10. 11. or 12. scores distant at the archers, as the archers may do at them, it will be found that in 10000 of their shot they will not hit so many as 10. archers: 
The advantages the archers have of harque buziers.  so wonderful uncertain by all true experience of all well practised and skilful soldiers are those weapons of fire. So as I come to conclude also that a far greater number of harquebuziers are no ways able to abide the terror of a much smaller number of archers, I mean if the archers be of a thousand or any greater number, whereby they may reduce themselves into many forms and troops.  
And now as I have alleged divers reasons to show and prove that a smaller number of archers reduced into many greater and smaller troops, have great advantage to overthrow and break a great deal greater number of mosquetiers in the plain & open fields: even so am I persuaded by the like causes and reasons that. 
Reasons to prove that 500 harquebuziers are in skirmish able to overthrow as many mosquetiers.  500 harquebuziers in the plain and open fields reducing themselves into many societies of lose shot, as also into greater troops (as I have before in other places, whereas I have showed in what sort harquebuziers should skirmish declared) were able with great facility to overthrow and drive out of the fields. 500 mosquetiers; I mean, if neither the harquebuziers nor the mosquetiers had any other weapon to succour them but themselves, by reason that the harquebuziers being dispersed into many societies of lose shot, and into greater and lesser troops, may travesse their grounds and enlarge themselves, and give their volees in continual motion, javing only at the instant when they take their sights and discharge their pieces at the frunt, flanks and back of the mosquetiers standing still like butts without motion at their rests whereas mosquetiers reducing themselves into divers broad squares, or troops according unto their most convenient orders of advantage to discharge their pieces from their rests, cannot discharge their pieces although with haileshot of war at the harquebuziers to any effect, by reason that they are dispersed, and in continual motion. Howbeit if any man will say that mosquetiers might without their rests likewise reduce themselves into many little societies, and greater and smaller troops, and so with great advantage in respect that their pieces will carry point and blank a great deal surder, then harquebusses, skirmish with the harquebuziers: 
Mosquetiers are not able in skirmish to use their pieces without rests to any effect, & with rests they cannot skirmish.  Thereunto it is to be answered, that it is not possible that mosquitiers, although they were all men of great force and strength, should be able with their forehandes to support and bear their so heavy pieces to discharge, and shoot with any steadiness or certainty: Considering that for any man to discharge any piece either arqebus, Currier, or mosquet without a rest effectual●lie it doth behove him to have his piece of such lightness, as he may be Master of his piece, and not his piece through the great heveth thereof master of him; 
For any man to discharge his piece effectual lie, it behoveth him to be master of his piece and not his piece master of him.  that is, that he may with dexterity discharge it steadily and with ease from his forehand, taking his sight either from point at blank, or at least from the end of his piece with some kind of certainty: which if his piece be any thing too heavy for him with facility & ease to manage, it is not possible for him to perform, although it were at a firm and steady mark, by reason that he striving with all his force to bear the end of his piece, to discharge the same with some steadiness and certainty, the same overmaistring his forces with extreme heveth, doth make him to shoot just either at the centre of the earth, or else at the seven stars without doing any hurt to the enemy: Besides that when he hath once or twice discharged to recharge again, it doth not only through the great length and heveth of his piece require a much longer time then for a harquebuzier to recharge his arqebus, but also doth so weary the mosquetier, that it doth bereave him of his forces, in such sort as he is to work in a manner no effect, other then by his seldom discharging to make a great noise. So as in this matter I come to conclude, that as mosquetiers (as I have in certain other places before men tioned) through the great distance that their pieces will carry, and the great blows that they will give aswell with hailshot of war as with single bullets, have in their convenient and due times and places great advantage against harquebuziers: Even so for skirmishes, harquebuziers for the causes and reasons before alleged, do in their effects far exceed and excel mosquetiers. And thus far concerning these matters before handled. 
Instructions to be given by Captains and officers to their bands for the passing of any brief spe● ches or word.  All Captains both of horsemen and footmen and their officers should instruct and teach their bands that when they are reduced into their simple or single order, or into any form of squadron, or into any other form; that when any brief speeches or words are spoken either by the colonel or sergeant Maior, or by their Captains, to the intent that the same should pass from the hindermost rank to the foremost rank, or from the foremost to the hindermost, or from flank to flank: that then they do in no wise fail with all celerity to pass that speech or word without stop or stay upon severe punishment of every rank that shall be found not to pass the same, even to the very first or last rank, and so likewise from flank to flank. And the commandment of the passing of those brief speeches or words in bands single do appertain to the Captain, 
To whom the commandment of passing of brief speeches doth appertain.  his Lieutenant or Sergeants; and if it be in divers bands reduced into forms either to march or fight, than those commandments of brief speeches or words do appertain chiefly to the colonel or Sergeant Maior, or to his deputy Lieutenant, and not to any Captain or Captains, or their officers, without the special commandment of one of the three aforesaid officers.  
All drummers should be very skilful and perfect in all 
The duty of trompettors & drummers.  the different strokes that are to direct and command all captains and their soldiers be they either in Camp, field or Town. All trompettors also, aswell such as do belong to bands of horsemen, as others that do belong to Colonels of footmen should be very skilful and perfect to blow and sound all kind of sounds, directions, & commandments. And the Lord Lieutenant generals sergeant trumpeter, or trumpeter Maior, as also his Sergeant drummer, or drummer Maior, should have a special care to see that all trompettors, and drummers under them throughout the whole Camp should strike, and sound all diversities and kinds of sounds and strokes with one conformity, in such sort that all Captains and their officers & soldiers may at all times and upon all occasions understand distinctly by all those their diversities of sounds and strokes what they should perform without any ways mistaking them.  
Also all Captains and officers of bands aswell of horsemen 
The care that all Captains & officers of ●andes are to ●aue to instruct ●heir bands.  as of footmen should be very careful to instruct their soldiers to learn and know what every different sound of trumpet or stroke of drum doth signify, and how to perform the directions of those trumpets or drums: as for example, when horsemen or footmen should reduce themselves into their simple or single order of ranks, and when one or divers bands should reduce themselves into squadron, and how when they being reduced into squadron should make of back, or of flanks, frunt, when also to march faster or more leisurelie, and when to march a trot without disordering their ranks, when to stay and make a stand, when to retire, and when to advance, when also to straighten and close their ranks by frunt and flanks, with all other diversities of sounds and strokes, that are in the skill and science of trompettors and drommers to direct with their trumpets and drums. And as they are to learn and know when by the sound of the trumpet, or stroke of the drum to perform those and other actions military, so ought they to be instructed and taught by their Captains and officers by often exercises how to perform all those and other matters military with great order as well every soldier in particular as all soldiers in general. And thus all bands both of horsemen and footmen being instructed and taught by their Captains and officers to understand the different significations of all strokes and sounds of trumpets and drums, as also all such brief speeches, as I have before set down in this book, and how effectually to perform them, may in mine opinion be very well accounted not only soldiers, but old soldiers, in most services of the Camp or field.   

Certain Instructions and observations concerning the ordering and exercising of men at Arms, of dimilances, & all so of light horsemen, stradiots incorporated with Archers and crosbowers on horseback, for divers purposes & services.  
FIrst, when any Colonel or Captain or Captains will reduce their bands be they of men at Arms, or of dimilances, or Stradiots, or of any other sort of light horsemen into their simple or single order of 4. 5. or 6. or more or fewer in a rank, 
To reduce men at a●mes or dimilances into their simple or single order of ranks.  I would wish that they should instruct their horsemen that upon the sound of the trumpet for that purpose, or upon hearing such words pronounced by their Captains or officers, as I have very particularly set down aswell for horsemen as footmen in the beginning of this book, that they should presently reduce themselves into ranks by the left flanks the one of the other, and that there withal they should have regard to their distances, and to all other such considerations as are there mentioned concerning these and divers other purposes.  
Now to reduce men at Arms or dimilances into squadron, I think it is more than needeth again to particular the same; considering that any numbers of such horsemen are to be reduced into their squadron or squadrons in one of the same sorts that piquers footmen are; 
Squadrons of men at arms how many soever they be in frunt ought not to be above 10. or 12. by flanks.  and that with a greater facility; because that squadrons of men at arms, how many soever they be in frunt ought not in mine opinion (although I have seen otherwise) to be above 10. or 12. at the most by flanks; because all the ranks that should be above that number might be holden for superfluous and unprofitable; by reason that if another squadron of men at Arms that were but of the like number by frunt; and were by flanks 24. or 30. ranks or more, would upon that opinion of the plurality of the ranks conceived without taking any other advantage, charge such a squadron as aforesaid, that were of like number unto them in frunt, and by flanks only 10. ranks, they should find that squadron but of 10. ranks aswell able to encounter with them, and to abide their charge, as they theirs; because they should not be able with their charge to pass those 10. ranks, no more, than the squadron of 10. ranks to pass through their multiplicity of ranks; which is the cause that I would make my squadron of men at Arms or Lances broad in frunt according to the number, and by flanks not above 7. or 8. or 9 or 10. or 11. or 12. ranks at the most.  
Howbeit, true it is that such squadrons of Lances as do consist of 20. 25. or 30. ranks may draw forth from the back or rearward a sleeve of 5. or of 10. ranks of Lances, and draw them up by one of the flanks of the same squadron, and make the frunt of their squadron broader by frunt and shorter by flanks; and may also upon some other advantage espied with those ranks drawn out from behind, charge the contrary squadron in flank; or upon other occasions otherwise employ them, which is the greatest advantage that such squadrons of men at Arms or dimilances of many ranks have.  
Also it is to be noted that it is a greater advantage for such as are Colonels, 
Why 500 〈◊〉 are rather to be reduced into 3. 4. or 5. little squadrons, then into on● entire squadron.  commanders, or orderers of horsemen to reduce 500 Lances into 2. 3. 4. or 5. squadrons to charge either horsemen or footmen, then to reduce 500 lances all into one body of squadron; by reason that they being in so many squadrons may at one time be employed in divers services. Also if it were to charge a squadron of 500 Lances; 3. of the 5. of those little squadrons may make themselves all of one frunt: but I mean every squadron by himself separated a good distance one from another, and in that form may receive or give a charge all at one instant upon the broad frunt of the 500 Lances whilst that the other two squadrons that are in wings of those three, espying their advantages immediately upon the charge given and received, may likewise almost at the same instant give their charge upon the flanks, back, or hinder corners of the great squadron to the disordering of them: even so likewise 500 Lances reduced into 5. squadrons of 100 to every squadron may with greater advantage charge a squadron of pikes, then if the whole 500 were reduced but into one body of squadron, by reason that 3. of the 5. squadrons of 100 to every squadron reduced into 5. ranks 20 in every rank, charging the frunt & corners of the squadron of piquers at one time, and the other 2. squadrons of 100 a piece being each one of them reduced into 4. ranks of 25. in every rank to the intent to bear the greater breadth, or into 5. ranks of 20. in every rank as the other 3. were, may immediately upon the Retreat of those 3. Squadrons, give a new Charge upon the frunt and corner of the Squadron of piquers, to the endangering of the disordering and breaking of the said Squadron: whereas, if the whole number of 500 Lances were reduced into. 100 ranks. 5. in a rank, or into. 8 ranks that is 62. in a rank, overplus▪ 4: or into. 10. ranks that is. 50. in every rank, or more or fewer, I say (that in mine opinion) one charge of the squadron of 500 lances should not be able to work so great an effect to the endangering of the squadron of piquers as those 5. little squadrons or hundreds should be able to do, seconding one another and charging at different times, and thereby the two last squadrons finding the squadron of pikes in some disorder through the charge of the. 3. first squadrons should with great facility give in amongst them & overthrow them, or at least, put them in great hazard of breaking & overthrowing. And so likewise 500 lances or stradiots or any greater number have a great deal greater advantage to charge, disorder & break in the open fields any number or numbers of harquebuziers or mosquetiers, in case they be without any succour of pikes or advantage of ground in troops of hundreds and fifties, or many other smaller troops, then if they were reduced into any. 2. or. 3. great bodies of squadron or troops.  
But yet because I have said before that a squadron of Lances of 10. or 12. ranks are to be reduced into form with a great deal greater facility than a squadron of footmen that doth consist of many ranks and peradventure of diversity of weapons, and that all Captains that do lead Lances do not well know how to form such a squadron, although but of a few ranks as aforesaid; I will therefore here briefly set down how they shall presently reduce such a squadron of few, 
Two ways whereby to re●duce a squadron of lances of few or many ranks into form.  or of many ranks into form with great facility; and that is by any one of two ways, the first to reduce them by flank or flanks, & the other by right line.  
As for example, the Captain or Captains of such a band or bands of men at Arms or dimilances, commanding their officers to reduce their band or bands into their simple or single order of 6. Lances in a rank throughout, and then considering the one half of the full number of the ranks, they are upon the sound of the Trumpet, or else by brief speeches pronounced, to command the foremost one half of the lances to march some 20. or 30. paces, and the other half of the lances to stay and keep their ground, which marching forward of 20. or 30. paces by the first half to give convenient ground and place to the other half to reduce themselves into squadron by flank being performed, and they there in their ranks making a stay and pause, than some captain or captains or other leaders for that purpose appointed, placing themselves upon the frunt of the hinder half of the lances that have not yet moved, they upon the sound of the trumpet are to march up either by the right or left flank of the foremost half of the lances now making their pause and standing still, until that the foremost rank of the hinder half of lances do make equal frunte with the foremost rank of the foremost half of lances, and so likewise that the hindermost rank of the same one half of lances, be equal with the hindermost rank of the foremost one half of the lances, and so consequently all the rest of the ranks be even and strait by flanks one with another: which being performed then of 6. in a rank that the same band or bands of lances were before throughout, they are now comen to be 12. in a rank throughout; which being done, then to make them a broad square of many in frunte, that is in every rank, and but only of 12. ranks, the captain, or captains that do lead them, are to lead and draw the flank of their band or bands to the ground whereas they will make of flank frunt: where being comen, they are to make a stay and pause, and then either by the sound of the trumpet upon that flank that shall be made frunt, or else upon some of the captains galloping to the midst of the same flank, and being something distant from the flank; and pronouncing with a loud voice. Frunt unto me men at Arms; or frunt unto me Lances: then presently all the horsemen that are next unto them are to turn their horses faces and make frunt that ways, and so subsequetnly all the rest of the ranks of the lances one after another, which being performed, then of how many ranks soever they were before by flanks, now they are becomne to be only of 12. ranks by flanks, and in frunt, of the like number that they were by flank, or flanks: And as the first forming of this squadron was performed by doubling of the hinder half of the Lances by the flank of the foremost half of the Lances (as aforesaid:) Even so may the Captains either by the sound of the trumpet, or by brief speeches command their Lances to double themselves by right line; that is, that the second rank of 6. should enter into the foremost rank likewise of. 6. and that the fourth rank should enter into the third rank; and so consequently every second rank throughout to the very back or Rearward, to enter into the rank before him, in such sort that of 6. that every rank was before, they are now by this doubling by right line becomne. 12. in every rank from frunt to back: which being performed and all the ranks reform in their distances as well by frunt as flanks, than the Captain or Captains may presently make of flank frunt according as I have before very particularly declared; and then the standard or Ensign, 
Where the standard of men at arms or the guidon of distil aunces is to be placed.  or Ensigns if they be men at Arms, or the Guidons if they be dimilances being placed in the midst of the same squadron, the whole broad square is ready to straighten and close their ranks by frunt and flanks, and either to charge their enemies or to receive a charge. And as this broad square of many Lances in frunt, and but of 12. Lances by flanks hath been reduced into form by two different ways as aforesaid; so may any other squadron or squadrons of lances be reduced by any of those two ways, of how many ranks by flanks soever they are. But yet as the reducing of horsemen by right line is very good and ready: so the reducing of them into squadron by flanks as aforesaid, is better; because they do no ways alter nor disorder themselves in their distances neither in frunt nor by flanks; whereas otherwise by entering and doubling their ranks one into another by right line, they come to disorder their proportionate distances, which they must again with all speed reform. Advertising further, that as this squadron hath been form by the aforesaid two ways, so may the same or any other even at the first be as well reduced by any of those 2. ways into form, in vaungard and frunt, without making of flank frunt, so as the Colonel, Sergeant Maior, or Captain, that hath the forming of the said squadron, have good regard aswell to the ground and number that he will make his frunt of, as to the number of the ranks by flanks, and therewithal to place and accomodat the broken rank, or ranks if there be any with the standard, ensign, or Guidon.  
Now because in these days new opinions and fancies in matters of arms grounded upon very weak or rather no reasons at all, do bear a very great sway; and that amongst other errors military there be some that do hold & allow that lances should be rather reduced into troop to charge or receive a charge, 
Lances are always rather to be reduced into squadron, then into troops.  then into squadron form: I for divers reasons, of the which some I will after allege, would that when any Colonel or Captains of men at arms or dimilances shall have occasion to reduce their bands into form, either to march or fight; that then they do in any wise reduce them into form of squadron, according to the ancient-use, and not into troop according to the new fancies, in case that time and leisure will serve: And therewithal that they do form them with a triple frunt, 
Lances are always to be 3. times and sometimes 4. or 5. times or more in frunt than by flanks.  that is three times as many in frunt as by flanks, and sometimes more: As for example, if the frunt be of 24. or 25. Lances, than the flank should be of 8. lances: And sometimes also with a quatriple frunt, that is 4. times more in frunt, then by flanks; as also at other times and upon other occasions into far broader frunts then quadruple, although by flanks not above 10. or 12. ranks at the most as aforesaid: and that the Standards or Ensigns, if they be men at Arms; or the Guidons if they be dimilances be placed in the midst of the squadron.  
And the those horsemen be instructed how to enlarge themselves in their ranks when they march in squadron: and how presently upon the sight of the enemy approaching to straighten themselves by frunt and flanks, with their just & proportionate distances, in such sort as they may charge or receive a charge of the enemy without disordering their horses or Lances, or confounding their ranks. But in case that upon a sudden Alarm given upon the approach of the Enemy the Lances being in Camp, Town, or Village be not reduced into their single order under their Ensigns or Guidons, but that they are then assembling themselves and the enemy near at hand; then they must make of necessity virtue, that is to reduce themselves into troop, making as near as they can a triple, or quatriple frunt, or more that they may somewhat resemble a squadron, having regard to their distances, that they may use their Lances without disordering the one the other as near as they may.  
And whereas there be some professing arms in this time that do hold an opinion that Lances have a greater advantage to charge or receive a charge in troop, then in squadron as aforesaid; they therein do show that for lack of understanding and consideration they do greatly err in the ordering of horsemen Lances. For the Almains, Italians, English, and divers other Nations have of great antiquity used, both squadron of men at Arms and dimilances, and also troops: But it was never heard of before these disordered civil wars of France, 
whereupon the ●educing of aunces into roupe doth amongst men of war proceed.  and the Lowcountries, that Lances in troops confused, should be preferred and judged to be of greater advantage than lances in squadron form, considering that the reducing of Lances into troop doth amongst men of war proceed of nothing else but of lack of time to reduce them into squadron upon some sudden Alarm and approach of the Enemy: So as such as do hold that opinion might aswell say that two, 
● battle of neces●●tie is a nom●er of piquers 〈◊〉 horsemen ●unces out of ●●nks in ●roup.  or three thousand piquers, and short weapons have more advantage to fight in a battle of necessity, then in a Squadron form: which battle of necessity or extremity, term it as you list, is never used but upon some great and sudden accident as when a puissant enemy doth make a sudden approach upon your Camp most commonly by night, or at the break of day with a Canuesada, killing both scouts, Sentinels and watches, through their negligent watching, or discovering, and thereupon an alarm given, for lack of time to reduce your piquers into squadron form, you are feign in the place of assembly to make them to run together into ranks confused, closing themselves as close as they can to defend the Ring, or entry of the Campe. By the which comparisons, reasons, and examples of footmen piquers before alleged, such new fancies and lack of understanding in the ordering, or rather disordering of lances may be easily discerned by men of reason and judgement.  
And now to the intent that your men at Arms or dimilances may be the better able to charge or receive a charge of their enemies, it is very meet, and convenient that their Captains and officers should reduce them some time into squadron with a triple, or quatriple frunt.  
And being so reduced, that they should be taught, 
How and in what distances men at Arms or dimilances are to charge or receive a charge of their enemies.  how to straighten and close themselves in frunt and flanks; and how presently upon the sound of a charge they should almost all at one instant put spurs to their horses galloping upon the hand about 8. or 10. paces, and then charge their Lances from their tasses or long Cuisses and thighs presently into their rests, and not to carry their Lances at the Arms end, as they do commonly use at Tilt, to make the fairer show; and then imagining the squadron of the enemy's Lances to be within 15. or 20 paces directly before them, they should altogether put their horses into their Carrires to the intent to give the greater blow and shock to the overthrowing or breaking of their enemies. Then I would wish them to be taught how they should receive a charge if another squadron of lances should charge them: and that they should do in this sort.  
First when they shall see the squadron of their enemies coming to charge them either galloping upon the hand, or in their full Career; then they being straightened & closed in their ranks by frunt and flanks should stand firm, all the Lances of the three foremost ranks ready charged in their rests, but yet the points of their lances something high, until they do see the enemy's squadron within 15. or 20. paces of them: at which time they should with a terrible shout altogether in an instant, as if they were one entire body, put spurs to their horses, and fall into their Career, and so charge and shock with their enemies, to the disordering or breaking of them.  
All which being by them performed, they should then stop their horses and discharge their lances, setting them again upon their thighs: And then they should be instructed how with all celerity to make of flank frunt, by turning all their horses faces that way, and by enlarging themselves and doubling, and redoubling their ranks to reduce their squadron again into a triple, or quatriple frunt. Then I would wish that all the squadron of Lances should disorder themselves pelle melle out of their ranks: and that they should be instructed either upon the sound of the Trumpet or upon the pronouncing of these words, 
divers exercises for horsemen to be instructed and taught in.  troop, troop Lances, presently to fall into troop, making their frunt, triple, or quatriple, or more in respect of the flanks, as near as their Captains or officers can guess; And being thus fallen into troop, they should be taught how to charge or receive a charge of their Enemies, without disordering themselves or their lances.  
Then I would have them again reduced out of troop into squadron, and taught how they should charge the flank or corner of a squadron of pikes, and how in case they do not disorder▪ nor break the piquers, that they should retire again; and then falling into troop they should with a terrible shout offer a false charge by making a point & casting about when they come within 10. or 15. paces of the squadron of pikes, in case that the piquers making head with their pikes do not disorder themselves: But if they should perceive the squadron of piquers to wa●er or sway (as commonly they do a little before they break) that then they should give in upon the piquers with a full charge, to the utter overthrowing of them. And thus with these and such like exercises they should be made skilful & able with all advantages to charge any squadron of horsemen or footmen with great art and dexterity.  
Now peradventure some not skilful in matters of arms may say that I have made in a manner no difference betwixt the charging of a fquadron of men at Arms, or dimilances, and the receiving of a charge of another squadron of the like Weapons, because I do allow to the squadron that should charge but 30. paces, that is 20. galloping upon the hand, and 10. for their full Career to give the greater blow and shock: 
An objection answered.  Whereunto I answer that such as are leaders of any squadron of Lances that will fall into their gallop 12. scores, or 15. scores distant or more, to the intent to charge another squadron of Lances, shall find themselves in so great a distance greatly disordered & confounded in their ranks, and their horses out of breath, and thereby the force of their blow and shock greatly weakened when they shall come to encounter with the squadron of their enemies fresh, and not disordered, ●ho have put forward their Horses into their Career not above 10. paces.  
Now if it should be said unto me that it were more meet that a squadron of lances that is disposed to receive a charge, 
The opinion of such as hold it best for launcer to receive a charge standing still, answered.  should keep their ground and stand firm with their lances in their rests rather than to fall into their career of. 10. paces as aforesaid: I say that their receiving of a charge in standing still, should be greatly to their disadvantage, because that force and violence in this action must be repulsed with the like or greater force & violence. For any man of judgement by reason may consider that a squadron of lances straightened and closed in frunt and flanks with their just and proportionate distances coming to charge their enemy's squadron but 30. paces, that is. 20. galloping upon the hand, and. 10. with a terrible shout in their full career will work a wonderful effect to the breaking of the squadron of lances standing still, 
The disadvantage of a Squadron that receiveth a charge standing still.  without moving forward with any force. Besides that the disadvantage of such a squadron as receiveth a charge standing still without moving forward with force, is greatly augmented by the terror and thundering of their enemy's horses feet upon the ground coming in their full cartire, as also by the noise of the armours of the horsemen, and with the furious coming of the horses in squadron with the points of so many lances in the eyes and sights of both horses & men standing still in cold blood: whereas contrariwise the squadron coming but. 30. or. 40. paces in hot blood to charge them, first galloping upon the hand, & after in their full career as is aforesaid, do gather heat, fury, and force, in such sort as their blow and shock becometh so violent, that it doth amaze, disorder and break the contrary squadron with great facility; But a squadron of Lances standing firm upon their ground until they see their enemies within. 20. paces of them, & then putting themselves into their full career and meeting with their Enemies. 10. paces of, it is distance enough to receive and encounter them with as great force as if they had begun their career when the squadron of their Enemies was a greater distance of.  
But now in this place it is to be noted and observed that the Ensignebearer if he be of men at Arms, or the Guidon bearer, 
Where the En●ignebearer of men at Arms or the Guidon beare● of light horsemen are to ●e lodged.  if he be of light horsemen, be ever lodged both in Camp and Town in the captains Tent, or lodging, or very near unto the same, ever accompanied with the trumpeter of the same band, to the intent that they may receive all orders and sudden directions; and having received the same, may signify them by the sounds of the trumpet.  
Light horsemen borderers I will not take upon me to set down any thing for their instructions how they should use their spears in the field, because that they themselves by their continual exercise are so skilful with all such weapons as they do use in the service of the borders. 
Into what forms, light hors● men borderers are to reduce themselves.  But yet I would wish them to learn to reduce themselves into semicircles or half moons into two ranks either by right line or else obliqne, after the manner of the Turks and Hongarians; Because I think that the same would be of great advantage for them, for diverse purposes, as I have showed by divers demonstrations and forms in a Book by me Composed 1585. and not yet printed, entitled; Certain Military discourses, Arithmetical Tables, forms and demonstrations to reduce both horsemen and footmen into many forms of squadrons. etc.  
But because that in my forementioned Book I have but only set down the forms and demonstrations of those semicircles by figures of little horsemen, and not how nor in what sort they should be reduced into those forms; I will here briefly set down concerning those reducements, as also of the advantages that such light horsemen have in such semicircles against a squadron of Lances. And therefore to reduce them into the aforesaid forms, I say that if there be (for examples sake) 200. light horsemen; they are to march 2. in a rank either by right line or obliqne: And in case they march 2. in a rank by right line, than every 2. horsemen are of equal frunt throughout from frunt to back as all other sorts of horsemen in their ranks are: But if they march in ranks obliqne, 
How to reduc● light horsemen or Stradiots in to the form of a Semicircle.  than every second light horseman doth march retired and a good distance wide from the first, in such sort as he may march and have in flank the midst of the void ground that is betwixt his fellow foremost horseman of his own rank, and the foremost horseman of the second rank, that followeth the first, and so likewise the second soldier of the second ran●e is to follow him in the like sort, but marching and having on his flank likewise the midst of the distance or void ground that is betwixt his foremost fellow of his own rank, and the foremost light horseman of the third rank; And so subsequently all the rest of the light horsemen must march in ranks obliqne the one to the other.  
Now all this band of 200. light horsemen reduced into 100 ranks marching by right line strait forward, are to be reduced into a semicircle in this sort following, that is, that one Conductor ought to march before all the ranks; And another last of all behind all the ranks; Then after two other Conductors are to be placed in the very midst, the one to take care and to see order observed by the one half of the semicircle, that is of his right hand; and the other to see order observed by the other half of the semicircle that is of his left hand: which conductors being so placed, and the Cornet either in the midst of the ranks of the light horsemen, or else in one of the foremost ranks; then to reduce these 100 ranks into a semicircle, either the Captain, or foremost Conductor must march with his band & fetch a great and a large compass and circuit of ground, either upon the right, or left hand, according as he intendeth to make the frunt of his semicircle: And thus he must lead his band in compass and half circle, until he seethe the hindermost rank right over, and against in semicircle to the foremost rank of all the band, which he himself leadeth: which he perceiving, than he must command his trumpeter to sound a stay or pause, which done, the trumpettor must gallop towards the midst of the semicircle; I mean of the inner or compass side, and there must again sound to make of flank frunt: which being performed, then of 100 ranks of 2. in a rank that they were before, they are now becomne to be only 2. ranks of. 100 in each rank, which being performed, then may they march in this form of semicircle in their ranks, either by right line or obliqne if the fields be large and open (as they are most commonly in France, and many other Countries) with great facility: And in case there were a squadron of. 150. 
The advantage of a semicircle of light horsemen or Stradio●s, against a squadron of lances.  Lances that would think to break that semicircle by a charge given in the midst of the same semicircle, than the advantage of the semicircle is, upon the instant and very beginning of the charge of the lances to open themselves in the midst; the foremost Conductor of the Corner of the right hand galloping large and something in compass, and leading the one half of the semicircle of light horsemen, upon the one flank of the squadron of Lances; and the other Conductor of the other end, or corner of the semicircle to gallop likewise somewhat large in compass, and lead the other half of the semicircle to charge upon the other flank of the squadron of Lances, and with terrible noises and shouts to charge both the flanks, as also the back of the squadron with their spears all at one time. Or if the Semicircle be all of stradiots, with their zagaias, which are double headed Lances, then that they being lead by their Conductors and opening in the midst, as aforesaid, do charge both the flanks and back of the squadron with their zagaias striking both forward and backward, killing, and wounding, both horses and men.  
By which new, extraordinary, and unexpected kind of charge, the squadron of Lances that thought by right line to have charged and broken the semicircle in the midst finding nothing there before them to charge but only the air, are forced to make a stay or stand, and to defend themselves with great disadvantage of Weapon; and are compelled to make frunt of both their flanks and back, all at one time; which they can no ways perform without disordering themselves out of all form: whereof, and by the nearness of the light horsemen be they spears or zagaias, that have charged them, as aforesaid, it cometh to pass, that they have not any ground nor room to put their horses into any Career, nor to charge their lances into their rests, thereby to give the greater blow and shock, or any other ways to annoy the light horsemen, that have charged & do with their zagaias, or spears used as punching staves, wound and kill them and their horses both in flanks and back, as aforesaid, by means whereof they have not only utterly lost the use of their Lances, but are driven with many wounds already received to disorder all their ranks & squadron & in tumultuary and disordered sort, to fight with their swords, and other such short weapons against the said light horsemen with their punching staves, to the g 〈◊〉 disadvantage and utter ruin of the Lances.  
And whereas I have showed this order of marching of a semicircle of two ranks obliqne according to the Hongarian and Turkey manner: I say that it hath been and is in respect, that if any other such light horsemen in ranks by right line should charge them, that the hindermost light horsemen of the second rank, that are obliqne in rank to their fellows before them, may at the same instant, have more open and conveniency of ground to secure their fellows in the foremost rank, and to charge their enemies, than they otherwise could have, if they were by right line directly behind the first rank.   

The great effects that Stradiots, Archers on horseback, and Crosbowers on horseback, are to perform in the field, both against horsemen and footmen, with also, the great advantage that they have against Carabins, and against Reistres, and all other weapons of fire on horseback, in services of the field.  
STradiots before mentioned are a kind of light horsemen that have been used of many years both in Italy, France, Spain and Germany, although in their weapons & manner of arming, every Nation hath differed one from another more or less. 
Stradiots much used in times past.  Amongst the Pagans, the Arabians and Persians, the Turks and the Tartars, in such ages as they conquered the greatest part of Europe, Africa and Asia, used almost no other soldiers and weapons on horseback but light horsemen Launciers with long lances, Stradiots with Launcezagaias headed with two steeled heads, Archers with their bows; and Crosbowers, and all those with their Cemeteries and strait or crooked daggers, and other weapons in use with them. 
Stradiots of great execution and effect in the field.   
Now these light horsemen stradiots that have been used by so many Nations are of great execution and service in the field, both against horsemen and footmen disordered, and very excellent to enter into and maintain skirmish, chiefly if they be incorporated with Archers on horseback, and Crosbowers on horseback: The difference of which armours, weapons, horses, and other furniture belonging to those three sorts of weapons I omit, because I have very particularly set down mine opinion of those matters in my forementioned book, entitled; Certain Military discourses, Arithmetical Tables, forms and demonstrations, etc. by me Composed 1585. not yet printed. Now therefore I will make mention of nothing else but how they should behave themselves in the field against their enemies, and that I would have them to perform in this sort.  
Stradiots, 
How stradiots Archers on horseback, & Crosbowers on horseback, incorporated in bands, are to behave themselves in the field.  archers on horseback, and Crosbowers on horseback, being incorporated into bands, every band of 100 of the which I would have 40. stradiots, 30. archers, and 30. Crosbowers all on horseback, and all those reduced into Cameradas or societies of tens, or fifteens I would wish that they should not fight in squadrons nor in great troops as men at arms and dimilances should do; but that they should fight in many little troops of tens, or fifteen, or twenties, and not above; and that they should charge a squadron or troop, or divers squadrons or troops of Lances in frunt, flanks and back, in many little troops some advanced, and some retired, in such sort, as all the troops next unto the squadron of their enemy's horse, might have other troops in wing more retired to second and secure them; and that the troops of archers & Crosbowers should give their volees of arrows and quarrels at the squadrons or troops of their Enemies both in frunt, flanks and back, all at one time, and that the little troops of Stradiots should remain in wings somewhat retired, ready upon all occasions of any disorder of their enemies to give in, by flanks, and back, and to kill, or wound the horses of their enemies; and that in case the Lances being in great squadrons, or troops, should charge them; that then they should presently cast about and fly in their little troops, and that they should disperse their troops all over the large fields, in such sort, that the squadrons of lances should not well know which troops to follow; and that upon the Lances pursuing of those troops; that other little troops and societies should charge them again both in back and flanks, and that with terrible shouts and volees of quarrels and arrows, the Stradiots at the same time galloping in their troops by the hinder corners of the squadron, should wound their horses with their Launcezagayas, and give them occasion to stay their pursuit, & to make head against them; which if the Lances do without disordering themselves; then I would wish those troops that charged the back and flanks presently likewise to disperse and fly: and that the other little troops that they had followed before, should upon some extraordinary shout or hubabub, (whereto they should be enured) return again upon them with new charges and volees both in back and flanks with terrible shouts and cries as aforesaid: In such sort that although all the little troops of Stradiots, and shot, do not exceed the number of the lances in their great squadrons; yet that their false charges should be such, so many, and so continual in giving their volees in frunt, flanks, and back, as that by continual molesting of them, they should put them in hazard to disorder themselves and disperse: which if it should happen; then that the Stradiots should enter pelle melle amongst the Lances, and striking both forward and backward with their Lances that have double heads, should kill or wound their horses; and so by the advantage of their weapons, should do execution upon their Enemies to their utter overthrow.  
Now peradventure some will say that there are no squadrons of Lances that willbe without some companies of Carabins, and Argolettiers, or else of Reistres to secure them, which should greatly trouble the archers and Crosbowers to work the effect before declared. To the which I answer, that I am persuaded that if the Stradiots, archers and Crosbowers, be as many in number, as the Lances, 
Argolettiers Carabins, or Reistres are of small succour to a squadron of lances against stradiots, archers and crosbowers.  and Argolettiers, or Reistres; that the Argolettiers or Reistres will be of small succour to the Lances against those kinds of weapons, but that they would upon three or four volees of quarrels and arrows turn their backs, and leave the lances to defend themselves: For Argolettiers, or Reistres in true experience, are not to discharge their pieces and work any effect above 6. 8. or 10. paces distant, 
The distances wherein Argolettiers or Reistres are to discharge their pieces.  and yet that too far, considering the uncertainty of those weapons caused through the motion of their horses: whereas Crosbowers and chiefly archers, may work very certain and great effect to the mischief both of men and horses a great deal greater distance off; which with divers other reasons that for brevities sake I omit, do persuade me to think that 2000 Carabins or Reistres, are not able in the field to abide the charge and volee of 1000 stradiots, Archers and Crosbowers.  
Now the effects that bands of stradiots, archers and Crosbowers on horseback may work against footmen, 
Theeffects of bands of stradiots archers & crosbowers on horseback against foot men in the field.  upon divers opportunities are, that they may give their volees of quarrels, and arrows at random into the squadron of piquers or into the wings, or sleeves of shot, to the disturbing and molesting of their orders; and upon the overthrow of horsemen or footmen be they armed men or shot, the stradiots in following the chase may do great execution and slaughter by striking both forward and backward with their double headed lances. And these actions before declared are in mine opinion the chief effects of those three sorts of weapons in corporated in bands, as aforesaid.  
And thus having now finished all such instructions, and advertisements military as have at this time fallen into my remembrance, that do concern the ordering, forming and exercising of single bands and companies aswell of horsemen as of footmen, as also of reducing and sorming of squadrons into all the chief forms of battles ●y are requisite for armies to march or fight withal in the open fields, with many other important particularities: I will now (with the help of Almighty God) proceed to the setting down of mine opinion how new bands and companies that should be elected and enroled for defence of the Realm, or for foreign invasion, are to be elected, enrolled, armed and weaponed, with divers other particularities. For as for the mustering of old bands that have either served long in Armies, or in Garrisons, they are matters so common in use, as it might be holden but for superfluous to set down the orders and proceed concerning the same; considering that the most of all Warlike Nations do observe almost all one sort of proceed and observations in viewing and mustering of armies and Garrisons that have of long time served.    

Certain proceedings and observations that I would wish to be observed in the first election, enrolling, arming, and weaponing of Soldiers, for any employment; but chiefly for the ordinary bands and companies of horsemen and footmen that are to be chosen in the Shires of England, for the defence of the Realm, or for foreign Invasion; as also for taking of reviews of musters again from time to time, with divers other particularities.  
THe first thing of all others that doth belong to any perfect Militia, 
The first and chief thing 〈◊〉 all others tha● doth belong 〈◊〉 any perfect Militia is goo● election and choice.  either of horsemen or of footmen, or of both, is good and orderly and sufficient Election and choice of soldiers, which we commonly call taking of Musters, without which well and sufficiently performed, all the rest of any Militia and discipline Military can have no good form, nor work any great effect: and therefore, according to orderly writing, I should first have begun to have written of the same: Howbeit, because I mean to write but of some parts thereof; I thought good in that respect to set it down in the end of these my former instructions: And therefore I say that there are only two principal causes of elections, 
Two principal causes of elections inrollements and levies of men of war.  enrollements, & levies of men of war, of the which the first is for employments, and services by Sea; into the which there do enter none but only footmen and that of two sorts: the one Masters of Ships, officers, mariners, and sailors that are to manage the Ships, 
The first.  and all other sorts of artificers that are to repair the Ships, and all things belonging to the same: And the other of soldiers and their officers that are chosen, elected and levied to use their weapons for the annoying of the Enemy, and defence of the ships; in which number of soldiers are contained, all sorts of gonners and officers belonging to great ordinance, as also all others that do receive pay for and concerning those services; which because it is a distinct and different thing from that part of the Militia, that I intent to handle, 
The second.  I will omit. Now the second cause of musters and levies, is, for employment and services by land, either for a war offensive, or defensive or for both; into the which doth enter the first elections, choice, and enrollements aswell of horsemen, as of footmen, and aswell the horsemen, as the footmen of different sorts of armours and weapons.  
Now because I have in divers parts of Christendom seen soldiers both horsemen, and footmen elected, enrolled, and levied, in some Countries with greater order, and in others with less; and that also I have partly observed the ancient manner of election, enrolling, arming & furnishing of soldiers here in England when I was young, as also the proceed in those affairs of this time; I thought good in this place to set down my opinion how and in what sort, I would have all horsemen and footmen of such armours and weapons as we at this present in England do use, to be elected enrolled and every ways furnished; and there withal in their first election and inrollement instructed: And therefore I will first begin with footmen.  
And because that in all right and true elections and first enrollements of men of war, 
Three principal things to be observed in all right and ●rue elections of soldiers, by coronels captains, and muster masters.  there be three principal things to be regarded and observed; of the which the first is, conveniency of age and years: The second Corporal disposition and ability of body: and the third, honesty, which proceedeth from honest education, which in respect of obedience Military that ensueth thereof, is no less requisite than the other two: therefore I mean to include those as three principal matters belonging to my whole election. Of the which three concerning conveniency of years, 
Concerning the conveniency of years ●f such as are to ●e elected and ●nrolled for soldiers.  I think none meet to be elected and enrolled under the age of. 18. years; which is the lowest age that hath been allowable amongst all warlike nations of ancient and modern times; nor none above the age of. 35. or. 40. at the most: And of the age of. 18. I would have none elected unless they were of so great growth, & corporal disposition, as that they were able to perform the duties & effects of soldiers, which very few at that age can. And such as should be elected after the age of 18. I would have to continue soldiers until they come to the age of 45. in case their health and corporal disposition of body, do continue in them until that age.  
And so likewise, I would that such as were elected through their good disposition of bodies to be soldiers at 35. or 40. years old, should with good account and credit in the shiers where they dwell, be dismissed from being soldiers at the age of 45. and no ways further to be employed in matters military, unless their wisdom and sufficiency were such, as they were to serve as officers of bands. And the causes wherefore I would not have any to be elected to be soldiers above the age of 40. or to continue soldiers above the age of 5. years more, which is 45. are; that to elect and levy old men that never served before to be young soldiers, is contrary to all discipline; and to serve as private soldiers above the age of 45. (unless they be excellent archers in perfection of strong and clean shooting) it is more than is convenient, considering that for the defence of a kingdom where there is choice of young men enough, it were contrary to all reason and discipline that they should continue their services as private soldiers any longer, then until that age of 45. but in the countries where they dwell, at that age with great credit to be dismissed, that they may the better intend and follow their own private affairs and other younger men of sufficiency and ability of body and mind to be chosen in their places: And thus far concerning conveniency of years. 
Concerning the good and convenient corporal disposition of body of such as are to be elected and enrolled for soldiers.   
And now to the second sufficiency that is to be required in such as are to be elected and enrolled to be soldiers either horsemen or footmen; which is good and convenient corporal disposition of body and mind, able and apt to handle, or to learn to handle & use divers sorts of weapons, without which none are worthy nor meet to be elected and enroled for private soldiers. First therefore I would concerning the same, that the choice and election should be such, as every soldier that should be chosen should be a man well form and disposed of body and mind, and therefore meet and fit either by former exercise from his youth; or at least by aptness of mind and force, to learn the use of such weapons as he should be chosen and enrolled unto: as for example: I would have no man chosen to be an Archer that had not so practised the use of his bow from his youth, that he should be able to shoot strong, or at the least of a convenient strength and long arrows, and therewithal used by continual exercise to draw his arrow with three fingers, and not with two (according to the new fashion) to the head: of which shooters with two fingers, I would have none to be allowed for archers, 
Archers shooting with two fingers are not to be allowed for soldiers arthurs.  how fair soever they shoot, unless they could very well reform themselves from that fond new fashion: because that in their so shooting they lose a great deal of the strength of their draft. And thus far in this place concerning corporal disposition of body.  
And now to the third sufficiency of such as are to be elected, chosen & enrolled, 
Concerning the honesty of such as are to be elected, choose and in●olled.  which is honesty, I would that all such as should be elected and enrolled should be of honest parentage, and that their education and course of life had been such, as there were no notable vice to be noted in them, and chief of drunkenness, theft, blaspheming, common swearing or brawling. All which vices are such, as they cause all such as are possessed of them to be disordered, mutinous, and disobedient; which are things most contrary to all true discipline. Also I would if it might be, that all such as should be elected and chosen to be soldiers, should be of themselves of some ability and substance either in lands, or goods, or both; or else that from their parents they should be in possibility after their deceases to enjoy some lands, or goods, or both: And I would that they should be of those two conditions before mentioned; I mean of good parentage & present haviour, or in possibility by the death of their parents as aforesaid, because the same should be a kind of obligation to their captains, as also to the common wealth, for their good and obedient behaviour, in their vocation and degrees of soldiorie. Besides all which I would have all soldiers and officers of bands at their first election 
All soldiers & officers of bands are at their first electi●on and enrolment, to take their oaths of fidelity to the crown and Realm of England and obedience to their captains and superior officers.  and, enrolment to take their oaths of fidelity and loyalty to the crown and Realm of England; as also of obedience to their captains and officers, in such matters as do concern the art, science, and discipline military, for the defence of the Crown and Realm of England.  
Now the election and enrolment of the archers, as also of all the rest of the soldiers of other weapons being taken with such regard and respect as aforesaid; I would then have them to be armed very fitly and conveniently according to every different sort of weapon: And because that no man can be conveniently and fitly armed, unless he be first fitly appareled for his armour, and also for the use of his weapon, 
No man can be conveniently, armed unless he be first fitly appareled.  and that in the camp and army at Tilburie 1588. whereas there were the regiments of divers shires, with divers bands both of dimilances and light hormen, I did see and observe, so great disorder and deformity in their apparel, to arm withal, as I saw but a very few of that Army that had any conveniency of apparel, and chiefly of doublets to arm upon; whereof it came to pass that the most of them did wear their armours very uncomely, and uneasilie; which foresaid doublets if they be not conveniently made, and of purpose to arm upon according to the use of all antiquity, it is not possible that armed men horsemen, nor footmen should find themselves in their armours at ease: nor that they should use their weapons with such dexterity as they may do if their garments be purposely and fitly made to arm upon; nor yet that there can be any comeliness in wearing their armours upon such deformed doublets; I would first therefore, that there should be special regard had to the fit and convenient appareling of all sorts of soldiers; and therefore to begin with soldiers doublets, 
Concerning the convenient appareling of all sorts of soldiers.  I would that their doublets should be made of Fustian according to the use of all antiquity, or of chamoise skins, aswell in respect of lasting, as that a man may arm better upon any of both those things, then upon Canvas, or any thing that is more smooth, and less woolly.  
Then concerning the form and fashion of their doublets, I would that they should be of a convenient height in the Collars, aswell to defend their necks from cold in winter, as from heat in Summer. Then▪ I would that they should be narrow in the shoulders, & so small in the sleeves, and with so little bombast, that the vambrases of armed men might easily close together; and that archers using no vambrases but certain stripes of serecloth or mail within their sleeves to defend the cut of a sword, might through the smallness of their sleeves easily draw and shoot, without the string hitting upon any part of the sleeve, but only upon their bracers.  
Then I would that their doublets should be made easy and wide upon the stomachs and breasts, that the soldiers being not penned by the straightness of their doublets upon their breasts, might the easilier fetch their breath either in fight, or in any hasty march: and therewithal, that their doublets be cut flat upon the belly, and wasted of like length to the Cuirasses of their armours, to the intent that armed men's armours might sit the more just and flat to their bodies: But because the collars of armours do bear the chief weight of all the rest of the armour, I would wish that the soldiers armed men horsemen, or footmen, should either have under Collars of Fustian conveniently bombasted to defend the heveth and poise of their armours from the paining, or hurting of their shoulders and necks; or else that their doublets should be very well bombasted in all that part under their Collars both before and behind according to the depth of the same, which will be a great ease to all armed men horsemen or footmen, for their often and long continuing armed.  
Also I would that no armed men should wear any cut doublets, as well in respect that the wearing of armour doth quickly fret them out, and also by reason that the corners and edges of the lambs and joints of the armours do take such hold upon such cuts, as they do hinder the quick and sudden arming of men; as also that they are of more impediment to harquebuziers, mosquetiers, and archers, for divers respects to all skilful soldiers well known, than doublets uncut are. Then I would wish that there should be regard had to their hosen, that they might be easy for them to march and fight in; which the new fashion strait hosen are not: and therefore I would that they should rather wear Greygescoes too under the knee, that should be large, wide, and easy, lined with a Cotton lining without any bombast; and next to the thigh with a strong Canvas lining or false slop, whereunto the neither stockings should be set and sowed, and gartered under the knee, then either these new fashioned little round hose, or new fashioned bombasted Greygescoes that are very strait to the thighs and upper parts; which in summer besides the uneasiness of them, do with so much bombast keep armed men exceeding hot, whereas the other being large and wide as aforesaid, something after the fashion that the Spanish soldiers do use, are a great deal more easy, and chiefly for all sorts of footmen. 
How archery should be armed and weaponed.   
Now as for their armours I would wish, that archers should either wear Eyelet hole doublets, that will resist the thrust of a sword, or dagger, and covered with some trim and gallant kind of coloured cloth to the liking of the Captains, with their sleeves striped within, with certain narrow stripes of serecloth or mail, to resist the cut of a sword, or else jacks of mail quilted upon fustian to resist a blow or a thrust, of a convenient length, and the skirts not too long, in respect of the lightness & easiness of them: with their doublet sleeves as aforesaid; and for the defence of their heads, because these steel. Caps commonly used, are of very small comeliness for soldiers, and most of them too shallow, and therefore of small defence, I would wish some new and gallant fashion morrions very light and easy to be made for archers to wear without any covering upon them, but that they should be mild or burnished white; which besides their greater defence, being well and aptly made; would with their brightness greatly beautify the archers that do wear them. And as for the archers bows, I would that they should not be short after the new use which causeth them often to break, but that they should be long and well backed and nockt, according to the ancient use; and their strings whipped with fine thread, or silk; and that they should head and make their first sheaves of arrows, according to the length that they do commonly use to draw. The blades of their sword I would have to be very good, and of the length of a yard and not above; with their hilts only made with. 2. ports, a greater and a smaller on the out side of the hilts, after the fashion of the Italian and Spanish arming sword; and those sword I would have them to wear with strong girdles of leather, their hangers of such convenient length, and so well form as their sword might hang upon the upper parts of their thighs; not only ready and very easy to be drawn; but also by their well hanging of them strait forward and backward, (I mean not athwart their bommes, as drommers, to give place & room to their drums do use; nor yet so far forward as they may lie athwart their Codpieces, as great boys do use at their first wearing of sword when they come new from school) that the said soldiers swords upon their hasty march, or any other occasion by their strait and well standing of them, should hang firm without dancing, or bobbing forward and backward, as swords unsoldiorly worn, do commonly use. The blades of their daggers also, I would wish them to be not above 10 inches long, and that the hilts of the same should be only made of one single and short cross without any ports, or hilts at all, and not with great hilts after the fencers or alehouse fashion; and that they should wear their daggers not upon their girdles at their backs, but hanging down upon their right thighs before them, after the old English fashion; and because that their daggers should stand the more firm and steady without bobbing or dancing up and down upon the hasty march of the soldiers; I would that they should wear them in leathers, after the fashion that I saw some of the soldiers of Sir john Peter's band devise and use, at such time as I mustered his band near unto Brentwood the year 1588. Which leathers being of the length of 7. inches, and 3. inches broad beneath, but above not so broad, and have in the upper parts two cuts strait downward, for the waste of the girdle to go through, and in the lower end, two cuts strait athwart, for the dagger sheath to be thrust through and down even to the very locket; & then the locket of the dagger being fastened a little above, to two holes through the leather right against the same with a string or a lace; such daggers so worn, do stand wonderful firm, and very ready for soldiers, archers, or armed men to draw, and with thrusts to use the points of them. The archers also I would have them to use shooting gloves with the inner parts of the fingers of Bucks leather, and in no wise any leathers called finger stalls after the new fashion. Al their bracers also I would have after the old fashion of our English archers to many well known, and not according to the new devices. And thus far concerning the election, appareling, arming, and weaponing of archers. And now to the election, appareling, arming and weaponing of harquebuziers.  
Harquebuziers I would wish them to be elected and chosen of the youngest sort of men, 
Concerning the election appareling, arming, and we aponing of harquebuziers.  and of the meanest stature and size of all other sorts that should be allowed of, to be elected and enrolled, and chiefly of such as have small skill and dexterity in the long bow, and archery: For I would that such as were skilful in the long bow; I mean good archers of what size of men soever; that they should not be enrolled to any other weapon, considering that the number of good archers of our Nation in these days are so few, and that, that kind of weapon is of so wonderful and miraculous effect in services of the field as by all ancient and modern experience amongst all Nations it hath been and is most manifest. Harquebuziers therefore I would have them to be of the youngest sort of men, as aforesaid, because they should be the more nimble to travesse their grounds, and to stoop to their pieces, and to take all advantages of grounds, and of the smallest sort and size of men, because they should be the lesser marks in the sights of their enemies in skirmish near at hand, as is in my former instructions at large contained.  
Their apparel I would have to be doublets of fustian without any cuts, and Greigescoes all of the like sort and fashion, as I have before particularly set down concerning archers; and that they should have every one of them a saltenberg, commonly called a Mandilion of very good broad cloth that will not shrink, to encover and keep dry their flasks and touchboxes and the pans and touch-holes of their harquebusses in the time of wet & moist weather; and the same handsomely made to their bodies, and of such Colours as every one of their Captains should make choice of.  
And therewithal that every one of them should have an upright or sharp morrion fast tied with a red scarf under their Chins after the spanish fashion, all white and graven, or at least, white ungraven, and in no wise any black mortions; because that the white doth beutefie the soldiers more, and is of greater terror in the eye and sight of the Enemy. The Cannons of their harquebusses I would have them to be all of the length of a yard and not any longer nor shorter all ranforced backward, and conveniently thin forward; and that the sights of their harquebusses should be all open sights; I mean without any pipes or covers upon them, because they might the more readily take their sights either from point at blank if time will serve, or else from the ends of their pieces. I would also that all those sights as also the pins of their pieces should be very even and strait set and filled to a just and convenient height; and their pieces chosen without any cracks or flaws within, very well bored and drawbored, and therewithal their vices at the hinder ends of their pieces of such convenient length, & so well made and filled, that their harquebusses should not recoil: besides all which I would that all their bullets should be of one Caliver and height, and that of a mean size for divers causes, & reasons that I have before in mine instructions alleged.  
All the stocks of their harquebusses I would have them to be crooked (as we call them) and of good form, and not strait stocks, because that being crooked and compassed stocks they do more readily counterpoise the fore end of their pieces, and more readily fall into level when they are in skirmish, and have no leisure to take any sight from point at blank, but from the fore ends of their pieces, then strait stocks do: Besides that considering the lightness of their pieces they may aswell and as readily without rests at any time take their sights from point at blank with crooked stocks of good form as if they were strait. The Cocks, or serpentines I would have to be of convenient compass and able to receive any convenient match, and that the feathers and springs that do belong unto them should be of so hard and good temper, that they should cause the ●ockes or serpentines to fall and rise so strong and quick, as by their strong falling with the matches into the pans, they may make the fire to sparkle, thereby in an instant to make the powder to take fire.  
Then I would that every harquebuzier should have a good and a fair flask and touchbox, with strings to them of convenient length, and that they should be taught by their corporals very souldiorlie to wear them, and to keep their powder in their flasks and touchboxes very dry. And I would that the pipes or mouths of their flasks should be a just charge for their harquebusses according to the use of the Spaniards and Wallouns, and that the feathers and springs that do make the plate or cover of the lower part of the mouths of their flasks to open and cover again, should be of so good temper as they might open and cover quick and close, that the soldiers thereby might be assured not to overcharge their pieces to their danger.  
Then I would that every harquebuzier should have in a little purse, or in a little bag in his pocket, a little steel with a flint, and a little piece of a certain kind of tinder like a sponge, such as the harquebuziers Spaniards do use, to strike fire to light their matches, with scourers, skrues, prining irons, and moulds, and all other things requisite for the well charging and keeping of their harquebusses clean and neat. sword also the blads of the length of a yard, with hilts of the fashion before mentioned, with strong leather girdles, able to bear their sword, flasks, and touchboxes, I would wish every harquebuzier to have; & that they should wear their sword of such convenient height, as I have before declared, that archers and armed men ought to do. But as for daggers, I would wish no harquebuzier to wear any, because they have so seldom occasion to use them: and therefore do rather increase heveth and burden then serve for any other purpose; the experience whereof hath taught the harquebuziers of all Nations to wear no daggers; Besides all which, I would have the harquebuziers to be taught, as also the mosquetiers, to know the differences of powder and of match, that they may be the better able to know what charges they shall give to their pieces, according to the goodness or badness of the powder, and therewithal always in skirmish or otherwise to charge their pieces with some soft paper, or something else betwixt their powder and their bullets, and after their bullets to restrain the same: and to have their flasks full of good and dry powder well corned; and their touchboxes full of fine and dry touchpowder, with all other things requisite to the well using of their pieces, and thus far concerning harquebuziers.  
Mosquetiers I would wish to be elected of such men as are of good force & strength of body, 
How mosquetiers should be elected appareled, armed, and weaponed.  although they were but of mean statures, for the tallest and best form men I would have reserved for armed men piquers, and battleaxes or halbarders to be reduced into squadrons or battles; and yet I would not as aforesaid, that any good or strong archers should be enroled to any other kind of weapon, but only to the longbowe, for the causes before mentioned. But it is convenient that mosquetiers should be of good force, and strength, in respect of the heaviness of their weapons and furniture, that by their strength and agility, they may the better carry, handle, and manage their mosquets: And I would wish that they should be every ways appareled, and that they should wear their sword in strong girdles without any daggers as the harquebuziers aforesaid, and that they should be armed with the like morrions to the harquebuziers before mentioned. Then I would wish that all their mosquets should be of one length well ranforced backward, 
The Author would that all mosquets curriers of war, and other such pe●ces as are to be used in the field with rests, or in places fortified or against places fortified should have strait stocks and tha●●ll other lighter pieces that are for the skirmish and therefore to be used without rests, should have crooked stocks.  and of convenient thinness forward, and of one height, or caliver of bullet with open sights, and in all other things and particularities of the like perfection to the harquebusses that I have before mentioned.  
But all the mosquets I would have them to be with strait stocks because that considering their rests with the great heveth of their pieces they may the better set the strait stocks to their shoulders and take their sights more readily & certainly from point at blank, then if their stocks were crooked. Their iron forks, or rests I would have them to be well and even form, that when the staves are fixed in the ground, their mosquets might lie just and even in their rests, which they cannot do if they be made higher on the one side then of the other, as many are. The staves of their rests, I would wish to be of just and convenient length and strength with pikes of a good length that they may enter a good way in and stand the more firm in the ground. Their flasks, touchboxes, and strings I would have to be of as great perfection as the flask and touchboxes of the harquebuziers before mentioned. And I would wish that they should charge their mosquets with powder out of the pipes or charges of the flasks as the harquebuziers aforesaid, and not out of charges that hang upon band rolls as many do use: Because that oftentimes the covers of such charges do fly off, and shed the powder, in such sort as the mosquetiers if they be not old soldiers or well practised, do sometimes think that they charge their pieces out of such bandrol charges, when the powder was spilled before, so as sometimes they put in their bullets into their pieces without any powder.  
And I would that every society or fellowship of 10. mosquetiers should have one great mould to cast 2. sorts of bullets, the one full bullets, and the other 2. or 3. bores smaller to charge upon some occasion with the more celerity. Also that the same mould should be so long and big, as it should be able to cast at one time 8. haileshot of war besides the bullets, which haileshot of War should be of the height and Caliver of small pistol bullets. And this great mould with a melting pan and lead, and all other things belonging to the same, should be for the common use of the whole society of 10. mosquetiers: as the like pan and mould and other things which I for brevities sake did omit should be for the common use of every society of 10. harquebuziers. And yet it doth behove the societies aswell of mosquetiers as of harquebuziers to have some private moulds for bullets, besides their common and public mould. And thus far concerning mosquetiers. And now to armed men piquers.  
The arming doublets and greygesc●es for armed men piquers, 
How piquers should be appareled armed & weaponed.  I have before described, and therefore I proceed to the arming and weaponing of them, as followeth. I would have all the piquers armed with burgonets of good depth well lined and stuffed for the easiness of their heads, and tied with a red scarf under their chins, and that they should not wear them flapping open untied, as I have seen many of our Mosquetiers and armed men here at home do. Also I would have them armed with collars of a good size, with backs and with cuyrats not too flat but something high upon the stomaches, that they may easily in any hasty march fetch their breaths: & the belly or lower part of the Cuirasses, I would have to be low, and rather something flat than any thing ri●ing or high, because they may having their vambraces on, the more easily put their hands to their swords without any impediment of the overmuch height of the lower parts, or bellies of their Cuirasses. Also I would have them to have tasses to the mid thigh not too broad, but of convenient length and breadth, comely and fit for their greygescoes.  
Also I would have them to have pouldrons of a good compass and size, and vambraces both joined together, and not asunder, because that the poise of the pouldrons and vambraces, hanging upon the pings and springs of their collars, they do not weigh so much, nor are not so wearisome as when they are separated; and that they wear their vambrases tied with points to their doublets under their pouldrons; Also I would that all armed men should wear gauntlets, as the armed men piquers Italians, and Spaniards do, and not to be bare and disarmed handed as our English and some other Nations of late years have used, because that any small wound received upon the hands doth presently make such soldiers impotent, and unable to use their weapons that have received such wounds although they be but small. Their swords, their daggers, and their girdles I have before particularly set down, how and in what sort I would have them to wear them. Their pikes also I would wish them all to be of the length of 18. foot, and neither longer nor shorter for the causes in my former instructions and discourses mentioned, as also contained in my Book of certain Discourses printed 1590. and that they should have very good and four square heads of good temper, and low armed with long cheeks, and in the midst covered or armed with black leather or black velour, or with some other such thing, and the they should not be too great nor heavy in wood, that thereby the soldiers may carry them and manage them with ease.  
Also I would that the staves of the pikes should be of a tight and stiff ash, and not of ash that doth sagge, and bend when the piquers do carry their pikes breast high before hand couched, because that such sagging and bending ash, although it be very tough yet it is more heavy than the other ash: besides that the piquers cannot carry the 〈◊〉 of such sagging, and bending pikes so even and strait in their Enemy's faces, as they may carry the other pikes that do not bend nor sagge, but are tight and strait. And thus far concerning armed men piquers, And now to battleaxes or halbarders.  
The election, choice and enrolment, of soldiers with battleaxes or halbarders, 
Concerning the election appareling arming and weaponing of soldiers with battle●kes.  I would wish to be of the taller and stronger sort of men, and that all the halbarders or battleaxes that should be to enter into squadron, should be appareled and armed in corselets in all points and pieces of armour like unto the piquers before mentioned: and yet if those halbarders or battleaxes in stead of pouldrons and vambraces did wear sleeves of good reveted mail that might cover all their shoulders and arms even from under their Collars, breasts and backs, to the very Gauntlets, considering that by the good defence and easiness of such sleeves of mail, they might manage their halberds the better, I would for my part allow them for very well armed, although I would that the piquers because they are the foremost ranks should be in any wise armed with pouldrons, vambraces and gauntlets, as aforesaid, and not with any sleeves of mail. Also I would that the halbarders should wear their swords and daggers of the same length, and in the very same sort that I have appointed the armed men piquers. But their halberds or battleaxes I▪ would have to be strong and of good weight with long strait edges, with good pikes backward, and strong points of convenient length, but in no wise too long forward, and that they should for the strengthening of them, be armed with two cheeks down the staff of a soot and more long, and that such battleaxes, or halberds for the squadron should not be above 6. foot long from the top of the points to the lowest end of the little iron hoops commonly called the Feralles of their staves.  
Also I would have certain other halberds that should be incorporated in every band of archers and likewise of harquebuziers, who should ser●e upon divers occasions, to do execution upon the enemy: And those Halbarders I would have them called extraordinary because they are not for the squadron; And those I would have to be armed only with burgonets with collars, very light Cuirasses and backs, and without any tasses, and in stead of pouldrons; vambrases, and gauntlets, the sleeves of their doublets I mean within the fustian striped with certain narrow stripes of serecloth, or of mail, to defend the Cut of a sword, and if that some of those extraordinary battleaxes, or halbarders, were armed but only with burgonets and with short skirted jerkins of buff, with a double buff upon their breasts, and the sleeves of their dou blets with stripes of mail or serecloth as aforesaid, and their sword and daggers worn after th●same sort, as the piquers before mentioned, I think it allowable: But the staves of the halberds of such halbarders extraordinary, I would wish to be longer by a foot, or a foot and a half or more, than the armed and ordinary halberds that are to enter into squadron, that is of 7. foot and a half long, or more, because that they being to succour troops and societies of lose shot, or to do execution upon divers accidents as aforesaid, and often times to fight with the enemy hand to hand, and sometimes to encounter with two, or three against one, it is requisite that their halberds for their advantage in fight should be longer than the ordinary halberds that are to enter into squadron; And in case that those halberds were lighter also than the others that are for the squadron, being of good strength, it wear not amiss.  
But whereas I have before armed all the piquers, and battleaxes ordinary, I mean, that are to enter into squadron in corselets complete, and that contrariwise I do understand that divers of our Captains of this time when they receive any English bands ready armed and furnished to serve withal either in France, 
It is contrary to altrue discipline military for soldiers to leave of their pouldrons vambrases and tasses.  or the Low Countries, and that the piquers of those bands are delivered unto them armed in corselets complete all saving gauntlets; they presently give, or throw away all their pouldrons, vambraces and tasses in such sort as the soldiers do remain armed only with burgonets, Collars, Cuirasses and backs, contrary to all true discipline: Certainly, it seemeth unto me very strange, that the lack of judgement, or rather the ignorance of this time in matters Military should be so great, 
The greate●illes ensuing to soldiers by leaving of their pouldrons vambraces and tasses.  that they should contemn the arming of their shoulders, arms, hands, and thighs, and only seek to guard their breasts, bellies and backs, in respect as I do think that they would preserve only those their vital parts: when it is very well known by all experience Military, that such as come to be wounded in their shoulders, arms hands or thighs, do oftentimes by such wounds, come to be in their Enemy's hands, and mercy, who many times upon such advantages do put them to the sword▪ Besides that it is more than strange that such Captains do not censider that soldiers with their legs and thighs do march forward to encounter with their Enemies, and with their shoulders, arms, and hands, they do use their weapons and fight with their Enemies; whereas cotrariwise with their bellies and backs, (which they altogether seek to guard) they do neither march forward against the enemies, nor fight: which is a great scorn and mockery that some of the men of war of this time should so imitate the French, and Flemish fashions, who of late years, have scarce remained one whole year in one order and manner of arming, but have still changed from fashion to fashion. Howbeit such of our Captains as do contemn the wearing of pouldrons, vambraces, gauntlets, and tasses do vainly allege for the reason and excuse of their so doing; 
A very val●e opinion and frivolous excuse.  that battles now a days do never come to join, but that they do only fight in skirmish; which is a very vain conceit and a frivolous excuse, and contrary to all reason and true experience of divers battles, that themselves may remember have been fought in France, and in divers other Countries, within these few years: considering that whensoever there are two Armies of Enemies in the field, or two puissant powers of horsemen and footmen, and that the one army or power of them upon any advantage or conveniency of ground espied, shall resolve to give battle or fight, that the contrary power or army shall not be able to refuse the battle, unless they will turn their backs and betake themselves to their heels; and that by reason that armies when they are in march, cannot assure themselves always to find grounds of such advantage and strength, whereupon the enemy's resolution to fight they may suddenly entrench, or encamp & fortify themselves. Besides all which, it is to be noted as Vigetius and divers other ancient, 
The Romans' observing their ancient orders and discipline military prevailed: but neglecting the same, came to utter ruin and destruction.  and more modern notable historiographers do write, that so long as the Romans did observe their ancient orders and discipline military, they did prevail against all other Nations; but that assoon as they began through effeminacy to neglect the same, and to leave the covering and guarding of divers parts of their bodies with armour in respect of the poise and heveth thereof, and other su●h important matters, that presently their Empire began to decline: 
The neglecting of the well arming of themselves with the contempt of archery were the utter ruin of the two notable Christian Empires of constantinople & Tr●pisonda.  in such sort as the Goths, Vandals, Huns, & other septrional Nations, as also of later years the Arabians, and the Saracens did chiefly with weapons of volee, overthrow them in many, and many battles, whereof and of the contempt of their archery ensued the loss of a great part of the Roman Empire, and finally upon the neglecting & forgetting of the like discipline did likewise ensue the utter ruin of the two notable christian Empires of Constantinople & Trepisonda with divers other christian Kingdoms. And thus far concerning the appareling, arming & weaponing of halbarders, or battleaxes: So as I have now finished the appareling arming, and weaponing of all sorts of footmen by our Nation in these days used, and therefore I will God willing proceed to the appareling, arming, weaponing, and horsing of all such different sorts of horsemen, as we now a days do use, with some other such sorts of horsemen also, as I would wish should be in use and exercise for the defence of the Crown and Realm, as also for any foreign invasion.  
And therefore to begin with light horsemen, such as in divers shires of england we do now use, 
How light horsemen should be appareled, armed, horsed & weaponed.  armed with red or pied caps and steel skulls within them, and with jacks and spears by some called Gads; in stead of this rude kind of arming as I account it, ` I would wish that they should be armed with burgonets, or else with upright morrions after the Spanish manner, with collars, cuirasses, and backs, and short tasses, and with sleeves of mail and gauntlets, or else gloves of mail in stead of gauntlets; And to the intent they should be the more easily & fitly armed, I would wish that they should be appareled I mean in doublets & Greigescoes, in the very same sort as is before for armed men declared; And as for their spears I would wish them to be of 18. foot long, and those I would wish to be so long, because they might not only use them to charge upon their thighs, but also that they might by taking and holding them in the midst, use them in stead of punching staves: And as for their geldings, I would have them to be of good life and size, and swift of career, and that they should ride them with light short cheeked bits, according to their horses mouths, & that their saddles should not be so little and ill fashioned, as those which we commonly call scottish saddles, but rather that they should be of that fashion, which we call now a days Morocco saddles, with pommells of such convenient height as one single pistol in a case might be buckled and set fast to the same, as also that the same should be made fast and buckled athwart the lower end upon a little bolster to make it to sit the more firm, and fitly upon all occasions to be used according to the manner of the Reistres: Also I would that no saddle should be without 3. girths, and there withal should have Patrells, and croupers with the rains and headstalles light and of very good fashion. Besides all this, I would have those kind of light horsemen to be very well practised in the well riding and using of their horses, and handling of their weapons in every kind and sort. And thus far concerning that kind of light horsemen. And now to the appareling, arming, & weaponing of stradiots by me mentioned in my former instructions, and discourses.  
Stradiots are a kind of light horsemen that have been used by many Nations, 
Concerning the appareling, arming, horsing and weaponing of stradiots.  aswell Pagans, as Christians, and have been armed and weaponed in divers different sorts according to the liking of such different Nations: Howbeit according to my opinion and best liking, I would wish those kind of soldiers to be very well elected and chosen of such men as have dispositions of bodies and minds to learn very well to ride, as also to diet, use, and keep their horses, & therewithal to learn to handle all their weapons with great dexterity: And as for their apparel, I mean their arming doublets & hosen, I would have them to be after the very same sort as I have appointed unto other armed men. And I would wish them all to be armed with good burgonets and buffs, with Collars, with Cuirasses, with backs, and with long Cuisses, from under the lowest lamb, or skirt of their Cuirasses to under the knee, and in stead of pouldrons and vambrases, sleeves of mail complete, with gloves of mail also, or gauntlets, with all the upper parts of their thumbs and forefingers of their right handed gauntlets covered with mail, thereby the better to use their pistols and other weapons; with such good sword, daggers, and girdles, as I have before appointed to other armed men, and in stead of Lances or spears, I would wish them to have Lances commonly called Laun●ezagayas of good, tight, and stiff ash, coloured black, with double heads of good and hard temper according to the use of the Moors, of 18. or 20. footlong; to the intent that taking them in the midst, they may strike both forward and backward, I mean aswell their enemies that they have in frunt or in flanks, as also their enemies & their horses that may upon any retreat pursue them: I would wish them also to have horses or geldings, strong, of good size and Career, with saddles of the fashion of the Reistres of Saxony, with Croupers, pat●els, good headstalles and rains with small chains, to the intent that if their rains should happen to be cut, they should not be strait at the mercy of their horses, or of their enemies. And I would wish them to have at their saddle po●mels very good single pistols, in good cases well and firmly set at their saddles as I have before mentioned, with touch boxes full of fine powder in some convenient places about them carried, and with a Cartage box of Iron of 7. or 8. cartages fast set upon every pistol case, and the Cannons of the pistols ranforced backward, and of small bullet; and of the length of 12. inches, with good firelocks and no snaphances, because in true understanding for divers causes that I could allege, firelocks are a great deal more certain and of less failing then snaphaunces are. Also I would that they should have at their saddle pommels of the contrary side to the pistols, men at arms axes; which beside that they are good to fight withal, are very commodious for horsemen to use for many requisite purposes, and uses, which because they are things so well known to all men of War of experience, I omit. And these kind of light horsemen Stradiots thus horsed, armed, and weaponed, are meet for all sorts of skirmishes and incountries, and also are of great execution against harquebuziers and mosquetiers, and to be brief against all sorts of horsemen and footmen.  
But because their so many weapons, as are before mentioned for one horseman to use may seem strange to such of this time as do not love to trouble themselves but with very few weapons, I say it is no strange matter, considering that such as do mean to fight well, do like to have store of weapons, that in case one or two should fail, they may presently betake themselves to the choice and use of others, according to the time and occasion: But such as would think those weapons by me before mentioned to be too many for one man to use, would think it a great deal more strange, to see a Turkey horseman that traveling by the way doth beside his Cemeterie, and his crooked dagger, voluntarily carry his Lance, his arqebus, and his Turkey bow, with his sheaf of arrows, with another weapon which now I have forgot, and all those weapons they do wear and carry so conveniently, and aptly, as they may use every one of them in his most convenient time and place. And thus far concerning Stradiots. And now concerning dimilances.  
dimilances are horsemen next in degree and account unto men at arms, as well in greatness, 
Concerning the appareling arming, ho●sing and weaponing of dimilances  and puissance of horses, as in strong and sure arming; and they ought to be appareled, as I have in divers parts before mentioned. They ought to be armed also, with their helmets, with their beavers, with their sights not too high nor too low, with collars, cuirasses, with rests very conveniently set not too high nor too low, backs, tasses, & short cuisses too under the knee, or else with long Cuisses from under the lowest lamb of their Cuyrasses to under the knee, without tasses. Also they ought to have good and well compassed pouldrons, vambrases, and gauntlets, and gussets of mail well set for the defence of their armholes, and their weapons ought to be arming swords, and daggers, worn in good and strong girdles, long, and strong lances, with a curtilace of the one side of the saddle pommel, or a steel mace, or a man at arms axe on the other side as aforesaid. Howbeit I have seen some both men at arms, and dimilances use tocks very conveniently worn after the Hongarian & Turkey manner under their thighs; which Tocks are long narrow stiff swords only for the thrust: And others I have seen that in stead of Curtilaces & tocks have worn single pistols, which pistols because men at arms or dimilances are to give their charge in squadron with the points of their Lances and shock of their horses, they cannot have so much leisure to pull out, and to pull down their cocks, as stradiots and other light horsemen that do fight lose in skirmish or in other little troops may: Besides that the gauntlets of men at Arms and dimilances are not fitly made to handle pistols in, as all men may see that list to prove them: and those dimilances ought to be all horsed upon puissant horses for the shock and not upon geldings unless they be very puissant; And their furniture for their horses ought to be steel saddles of good form, and of a convenient bigness, and as light as they conveniently may be made with good headstalles and rains with chains as aforesaid; with good patrells and croupers. Also if there were any gentlemen in those bands of dimilances, I would wish them not to be without the forepart of steel barbs, to the intent that upon any day that were likely to be of great service against the enemy, they should arm and barb the forepart of their horses, because that they being placed in the first rank, or two ranks, should be the better able to give and receive the charge and shock with the less danger to their horses. And thus far for dimilances.  
Now as for men at Arms because all men that are of any experience and understanding in matters military, 
Men at arms out of use in Christendom.  do well know that they must be all armed, cap a pie, and their horses very puissant, and all barbed aswell behind as before, with the number of weapons that they ought of ordinary to wear and use: And because that in these days partly in respect of their great pay; but chief because the art and science military hath been of late years, and presentl●e is in great declination and decay, they are not in use in England, nor in any part of Christendom as they have been, I overpass them.  
But now it is likely enough that some Gentlemen that have been trained up in these late Civil wars of the Low Countries or France may think that I have forgotten myself in not making mention in these aforesaid musters, of Carabins or Argolettiers; unto which kind of horsemen they are greatly affected: Whereunto I say that for the small effect that by experience I have seen those Carabins in services work, 
An objection answered.  through their great and many failings, which I have sufficiently proved in the latter end of my book of discourses that I did set forth, and cause to be printed the year 1590. as also in the former discourses of this book, where I have written of them; I do not any ways hold them worthy to be compared in their effects neither to archers on horseback, nor Crosbowers on horseback; and therefore will in this place make but very small mention of them, but do in stead of them wish that there should be an election and inrollement made of certain archers and Crosbowers on horseback in every shire who should be armed weaponed and horsed, and reduced into 〈◊〉 bands under their Captains and leaders, as here in this place I will out of my former book set down again, and that is in this sort following.  
All the Crosbowers on horseback under sufficient Conductors well skilled in the weapon, 
How Crosbowers on horse back should be horsed, armed, and weaponed.  I would they should have Crossbows of two pound and a half of the best sort, with crooked gaffles hanging at their strong girdles after the manner of Germany, that they might on horseback bend their Crossbows the more easily and readily with 24. quarrels in a case, well, fitly, and firmly set at their saddle pommels, and mounted upon good cold geldings, of mean size, the●selues armed with good morrions of the spanish fashion upon their heads, Collars, light, and short wasted Cuirasses, and backs, with sleeves of mail, or their doublet sleeves chained with ma●le, betwixt the lining and outside of their said sleeves; or with certain narrow stripes of serecloth within their sleeves, as aforesaid; or else chat they should be armed with morrions, light and easy brigandines, and sleeves chained with mail, with broad short sword by their sides of not above a yard in length, and short daggers. The archers on horseback under their Captains or conductors skilful in archery, I would likewise have mounted upon good quiet geldings of mean size with deep steel skulls in very narrow brimmed hats, well stuffed for the easiness of their heads: or rather with certain light morrions of some gallant fashion invented and devised for them; and either jacks of mail according to the ancient manner when they were called Loricati Sagittar●, or else light and easy brigandines, or at least Eyelet hole doublets, very easy and well fitted to their bodies; their sleeves chained within with mail, or else with certain narrow stripes of serecloth betwixt the lining and outside of their sleeves for the easiness of their arms; with broad short sword and short daggers, their bows of good yewgh, long, and well nocked and backed, and all their strings well whipped, with sheaves of .24. arrows ● piece in cases, with shooting gloves and bracers after the manner of our archers in times past. And all these both archers & crosbowers I would have them to be well practised, that they might know how to discharge their arrows and quarrels galloping upon the hand and in all other motions of their horses, and the Crosbowers to bend again with great readiness; and divers bands being thus horsed, armed, 
Crosbowers & archers on horse back of greater service than weapons of sire on horseback.  weaponed, and exercised, as also reduced into bands of fifties under sufficient conductors and other officers skilful in those weapons, should in mine opinion be able to perform far greater service in the field either against horsemen or footmen, than any of the forenamed weapons offire on horseback: Considering that both archers and Crosbowers may with their arrows and quarrels very certenlie wound or kill in their points and blanks either horsemen or footmen, that are in squadron, or troop. 2. or 3. scores of, and roving 6. 7. or 8. scores or a great deal further may greatly mischief and annoy any squadron either of horsemen or footmen: where as the Argolettiers or Pistolettiers are not to work any effect against squadrons or troops of horsemen or footmen above 10 or 15. yards off, at the furthest, and if it be enemy to enemy single, than they are not to discharge their pieces above 4. or 5. yards off; unless they will fail 5. times, before they hit once, so uncertain are those weapons of fire: The judgement whereof because this mine opinion may seem strange to such as do not know the imperfections of those weapons of fire on horseback, I refer unto any Captains or conductors of those weapons, either Italians, Spaniards, Wallouns, or French, that are soldiers of experience and judgement.  
But now because I have divers times seen new bands of divers sorts of horsemen very slightly mustered, 
With what cur● os●tie musters of bands of horsemen, and footmen ought to be taken.  aswell beyond the seas, as also in England, I think it good in this place briefly to write with what curiosity I would wish musters of bands of horsemen and footmen for the defence of the Realm to be taken: And therefore I say, that I would wish that the Mustermaister of horsemen & footmen of every shire, 
Of what calling the muster-maister of every shire should be.  should be a knight or an Esquire of greatworship of the same shire, or some other shire next adjoining, and such a one as had served in some war or wars in former times, and therefore of some good experience in matters military, who in respect of his good calling and worship would have special care to the good and faithful service of the king and Realm, without any ways abusing the performance of his duty in those services, as most of the common Mustermaisters of this time do; who being either Captains newly come up and of small account, or else such as have been soldiers and officers of bands, and now retainers and servants to Noblemen, and do procure and sue for such offices, rather to have ordinary and yearly stipends at the charge of the shires, as also by divers other ways and means to make their unlawful gains and profits of the subjects (than any ways to perform their duties in taking right and skilful musters, and reforming of military lacks and imperfections) do wittingly and willingly in respect of gain work but very little good effect in those employments.  
And because all the bands of horsemen of every shire are composed of knights, of gentlemen's, & of yeoman's servants and that betwixt musters and musters they do sometimes change by putting out of their service, or otherwise, their men that are enrolled into the bands of horsemen, whereof it cometh to pass that sometimes a mean man of stature, putteth on a tall man's armour, and sometimes a taller man putteth on the armour of a man of smaller stature, in such sort as many of them are very unfitly and uneasily armed, and as unskilful in souldiorlie wearing, and using of their weapons, and altogether ignorant to ride, handle, & use their horses: and that armed men being on horseback may seem to be conveniently appareled and armed, when if they were a foot they would show to be far otherwise; 
The order that all muster masters are to use in mustering o● their bands of horsemen.  I would therefore that every such principal Gentleman Mustermaster should in calling over of every horseman by name in order as they are in his muster roll set down, make every one of them in order as they are called one after another to alight a foot, and to view every horseman well, whether he have an arming doublet fit for his armour or no, and whether both the armour and doublet be fit for the man, and ●hether there be any buckles, or leathers broken, or any piece, or pieces lacking; none of the which particular lacks are sufferable.  
Then he is to peruse whether he have all the weapons belonging to horsemen of his sort, as if he be a demi-lance with such weapons as I have before particularly named that do belong to a demi-lance; and if he be a stradiot, than the Mustermaister is to view him a foot as aforesaid, to see whether his apparel and armour be fit for his person, and therewithal aptly and soldiorlie worn, as also whether he have all his weapons belonging unto horsemen of his sort, and whether they be good, and that he doth wear them aptly and soldiorly, yea he ought to view how he doth wear his hosen and Greigescoes, bootehosen, boots and spurs, and whether he doth wear them aptly and fitly like a horseman or like a Clown: And in case there be any imperfections or imperfection in any of those particularities, he is presently to give order upon some convenient penalty according to the desault or imperfection to be imposed upon the party that doth set forth the horse and horseman, that the same with all speed by a certain prefixed day be supplied or amended; Then he is to view his horse, and every part of the furniture of his horse to see whether there be any lack, unfitness, or imperfection in any part of the same, or whether his horse since the last muster hath been changed, or whether since that time he hath by misusage been broken wound or made lame; and therefore it behoveth the Mustermaister to have a skilful Ferrar with him at his taking of Musters, that can with skill judge of their lameness or soundness. All which performed, than the Mustermaister must command the horseman to mount on horseback, 
Muster masters are to see that the horsemen can well use their horses and weapons.  and to put his horse orderly into his Career, and to charge his staff presently and soldiorlie from his thigh into his rest if he be a lance, and not as they do commonly use to carry their staves at the tilt to beautify their courses, as is before declared, and again at the end of his Career to discharge the same, and to set it again upon his thigh and to stop and turn his horse both of the right and left hand; and if he be a Stradiot, after that he is remounted again on horseback he is to command him to gallop the field as if he were in skirmish, and to use his double headed Launcegaie in striking both forward and backward, as also on every side, as though he were in action with his enemy, and suddenly to cast from him his double headed Lance, as if the same were broken, or by some accident lost, and to draw his pistol, and pull down the Cock, and discharge the same, and presently again to pull up the cock, and to thrust it into his case, and to draw his sword, or to handle some other weapon of his with dexterity; which being soldiorlike performed, he is to be allowed to pass the muster for a sufficient soldior: but in case his horse be resty or headstrong, such a horse how sound soever, is not to be allowed, unless he may in short time be reform. And so likewise if he be an archer, or Crosbower on horseback, he must very particular view, and see; whether his apparel, armour and weapons with all other furniture belonging to the same, be all in as great, or greater order and perfection than I have before particularly set down: and so likewise he is very curiously to view every one of their horses that they be of convenient age, and size, and sound of wind and limb, as also whether their saddles, bridles, bits, pattrels, and croupers, and other furniture be in perfection.  
All which being by the mustermaister throughoutlie viewed and found in order and perfection, than he is to command the archer to mount on horseback, and to gallop upon the hand, and passing by some mark set up in the field, to draw 2. or 3. arrows out of his sheaf one after another, and drawing every one of them to the head, to discharge them at the same mark, some 3. or 4. scores off; which being by him souldiorlike performed, he is to allow him for a sufficient soldior and archer on horseback; & so all other archers that he shall muster & find to be armed, horsed, weaponed and furnished, and of sufficiency as aforesaid. And so likewise, having viewed, and perused every Crosbower on horseback, with all their armour, Weapons and furniture, as also their horses with all other furniture belonging to them, and finding them all in perfection, than he is likewise to command the Crosbower to mount on horseback, and to gallop upon the hand, and in passing by to discharge a quarrel at some mark set up some 30. paces off, and again presently with his gaffle to bend his crossbow and to discharge a second quarrel at that or some other mark; which being by him, and all other crosbowers orderly and souldiorlike performed; then he is to allow them to pass the muster as sufficient soldiers, and so likewise he ought to allow the Archers being in such perfection as aforesaid. 
The reducing of bands into one or divers forms appertaineth to the Captain and not to the mustermaister.   
And in this curious sort a Mustermaister is to take the view and Muster of every different sort, and kind of horsemen; For as for reducing any number of them into any form or forms with many other particularities. ●hose things do appertain to their Captains, and higher and lower officers; and so likewise the mustering of them in such curious sort as aforesaid, doth appertain also unto every good and careful Captain, that doth desire to have his band in good order. 
When mustermaisters are to take their muster.  But because some such gentlemen as are appointed Captains of horsemen and footmen for the defence of the Realm, are for lack of skill or care, not so curious in having their bands in order as they ought to be: therefore the foresaid knight or principal gentleman that is appointed to take musters, should at certain convenient times in the year, when all sorts of men are at most leisure from their country affairs & business, muster them in convenient places, some at one time and some at another, to see that they should be always in order, to be employed for the defence of their Prince, and country: & should also in calling them over one after another by his muster roll, be as curious in viewing not only the sufficiency of the person of every soldior, whether he be any ways by any accident decayed since his first election & enrolment: but also should very curiously view the fitness of his apparel and armour, lest that since the first election and enrolment, or since the last musters, the man, his apparel, or armour had been changed. Then he is to view his weapons, and the apt and fit wearing of them, & whether both armour & weapons be clean and neat, 
Mustermaisters finding any abuses, lacks, or imperfections, are to give order that the same be remedied, upon some severe penalty to be imposed upon the part● unto whom the same doth appertain.  and in such perfection as I have before very particularly set down, in the election, appareling, arming and weaponing of all sorts of footmen by us in these days used: and in case that he doth find any abuses, lacks, or imperfections in any of the particularities aforesaid, or any other, he is presently to give order for the reforming of the same by a prefixed day upon some severe penalty to be imposed either upon the parish that hath set forth that soldier, or upon the private rich man that doth find and set forth the same soldier, or upon the Soldier himself, in case he be of that wealth that he is at his own arming, and furnishing.  
Also whereas such soldiers either horsemen or footmen as are enrolled in such bands as aforesaid, 
The order that is to be used for the suppliing of soldiers maimed, or mischieved, or other wise decayed.  do sometimes become so maimed or mischieved by some accidental chances that they shall never be after able effectually to use such weapons as they were enrolled unto, or that by long sickness they are so decayed as they are not likely in a long time or never to recover their forces thereby soldiorlike to wear their armours, and use their weapons; Upon those and other like causes and accidents I would wish that the parish that doth find such soldiers, or else the private rich men, in case they be set forth and found by them, should presently notify the same unto the captain under whom & in whose band the said soldior or soldiers do serve, & that they should with in a certain and a prefixed day after, present unto him three other allowable, & able men, already from their youth exercised, in case they be archers, or apt and willing to learn to be soldiers, in case they be of other weapons, to the intent that the captain should to his best liking, make choice of one of them to be enrolled and supply the place of the soldior maimed or by long sickness decayed.  
Also in case that the soldior, or soldiers of any band or bands of horsemen or footmen should happen to die, 
The order that is to be used for the supplying of any soldiers deceased; or departing from their habitation into some other town or hundred, or out of their masters service.  or upon occasion of new habitation, should remove out of the parish or hundred, whereas he at his first enrolment did inhabit, or that any servant, or servingman enrolled to any weapon to serve on horseback, should departed out of his miasters' service; that in those and other like cases, the parishes upon the death of any such soldior or soldiers, should presently notify the same unto his or their captain or captains, and should within a certain prefixed day after, present unto him 3. other able and sufficient men to make his choice of one of them, to serve with the armour and weapons of the party, or parties deceased. But in case that such a soldior or soldiers either horseman or footman should upon the occasion of inhabiting else where, depart out of the Towns where they before had inhabited, or been resident, or that such soldiers had departed out of their masters services to serve elsewhere, as aforesaid: then I would in those or any the like cases, that either the parish where such soldiers did dwell, or the masters of such servants should signify their intention of removing and departure of such soldiers, unto their Captains, a full month before their departure, and that they should either 15. or 10. days before their departure at the least, present unto him 2. or 3. very able men, of the which he may make choice of one to be enrolled and to serve and supply in the place of such a soldier removing.  
And whereas all the armours and weapons of the soldiers footmen are at this time placed diversly in all the shires of England, 
The di●ersitie of the placing of the soldiers armours and weapons, in all the shiers of England.  in such parts whereas there are inrolmentes of horsemen and footmen, as in some places that they are placed in the chief Town or Towns of the shire, and in other places in the Captains, or other gentlemen's houses, and in other parts that all the Corporals have the custody of all the armour and weapons that do belong to the corporolates or societies that are under their charge; and all this under pretence for the more safe, and clean, and neat keeping of them, as also to take away the opportunities of the people's sudden arming of themselves in case they should take arms, 
Not the placing of armours nor weapons here, nor there that can keep a people disposed to rebel from rebellion.  the same being already in their houses, with intention to revolt, and rebel. Thereunto I say, that it is not the keeping or placing of the armour and weapons of a shire or divers shires, here or there out of the soldiers hands as aforesaid, that can keep them, or a people disposed to rebel, from rebelling, if the soldiers oaths of fidelity at their first election and inrolments will not restrain and contain them; by reason that rebellions do begin so diversly, and upon so many prepensed or accidental opportunities, as they cannot be any ways prevented by such poor devices. 
Rebellions begin sometimes upon the ambition or discontentation of some nobleman, or 〈◊〉 ●en.   
For as rebellions in divers Empires, kingdoms and Common wealths have begun upon the ambition or discontentation of some Noble man, or Noblemen for wrongs and injustices at their prince's hands received, that do confederate together, or otherwise resolve to take Arms against the Prince: Upon such conspiracies, or resolutions I say, it is not the placing of armour or weapons, here or there in shires, that can ●eepe the same out of the hands of them, 
Armours placed in great towns are more ready to arm an untuly multitude, then if they were dispersed in the soldiers houses.  and the people that follow them, the reuoult and rebllion being once begun, but the armour being placed in great Towns unfortefied, as all our Towns of England are, those armours and weapons being in such towns unfortefied kept, are a great deal the more ready to arm and weapon a great multitude revolted all at one time, then if they were dispersed in the soldiers custodies and houses to whom they belong, to serve withal, throughout such a whole Shire or divers Shires. So sometimes also rebellions do happen through the discontentation of the Ignobile vulgus, or common people, and those most commonly do begin in great Towns upon the assembly of many people; as of fairs, markets, and other such assemblies of people, 
Rebellions do often happen upon the discontentation of the ignobile vulgus  so as great quantity of armour, and weapons being kept in such great Towns, they are the more ready for the people revolting to possess themselves of them. And so likewise, armours & weapons, being placed either in the Captains or Corporals houses, they are a great deal more ready upon a rebellion by the common people begun, to be by them taken to arm themselves withal, then if they were dispersed into all the soldiers houses unto whom they belong to serve withal for defence of the Realm, according to their oaths, throughout a whole shire. But in case that the rebellion be universal througout one, or divers whole shires, than it cannot be avoided but that wheresoever the armour and weapons of such shires are placed, they will presently possess themselves of them.  
And incase that all the armour and weapons not only of a few shires, but of all the kingdom, were taken out of all the shires throughout, and were placed in some place, or places well fortified, and under great garrison to be the more safely and surely kept: I say that the same out of the hands of the people without other prevention, can no ways hinder nor keep a common people from rebellion that are disposed to rebel, considering that according to Virgil. Furor arma ministrat; as it may be apparent, by the Bellum servile, 
Bellum servile that happened t● the romans when they flou rished most, begun and maintained by Spartacus & other fencers.  that happened against the Romans' in all their greatness, which consisted most of slaves, and bondmen, having one Spartacus a Fenser, and other Fencers for their Chieftains, who at the beginning of their reuoult had but very few or no armours and weapons of war, but such as their rage and fury taught them to invent, take, and use, and so likewise the common people of the kingdom of Hongarie, 
The dangerous rebellion of the peasants of hongary and ●raunce, who at the first had little or no armours.  and the peasants termed in the French Chronicles, the jaccarie of France when they first revolted and ●ooke Arms against the nobility of those kingdoms were utterly disarmed, and all the Nobility of those Kingdoms very notably armed, both for on horseback and on foot; and yet after the rebellion was once begun, those common people presently invented & forged both armour and weapons of war in great numbers both offensive and defensive, and in short time reduced themselves into so great strength, as before that they could be utterly suppressed, it cost the lives of a great part of the Nobiltie and gentlemen of those kingdoms: Notwithstanding that both those kingdoms, I mean France and Hongarie had many Cities, and Towns so well fortified for the Kings and Nobility to make their retraites into, as the pesantes had never the skill nor power to possess themselves of, which the Realm of England hath not.  
And so likewise if we list to look upon the Rebellions 
The rebellions of the common people of England and specially the rebellion under Ke● in Norffolk● that had at the first little or no armour.  of the common people that happened in divers parts of England in one s●mer in king Edward the sixthes' time, and chiefly the Rebellion under Kette in Norfolk it is most apparent, that at the first beginning of the Rebellion they had very little, or no armour, and very few weapons of war, but that in a very short time after that they had begun their rebellion, they did invent, forge, & make many weapons of war, in the which for a time until they were suppressed, they behaved themselves in terrible sort; And of later time within these 24. or 25. years, the Moors of the kingdom of Granada in Spain that was a people utterly disarmed and without weapons and exercises of war, 
The revolt of the disarmed moors of granada against king Philip of spain in all his greatness which was in the year 1568.  did in all the greatness of king Philip of Spain that now is, revolt; and ma●ing of necessity virtue, did first betake themselves to fight with stones, and a few weapons that they had long before got by stealth and hid in their houses: But after that their rebellion was begun, they in a very short time, did invent, and forge, and win by force of the Spaniards Christians great numbers of armours and weapons both offensive and defensive, and did so resist, prevail, and defend themselves against the king of Spain's powers sent against them, that it was more than two years after the first beginning of the Rebellion, ere it could be suppressed; in which space, it cost the lives of above 50000. Spaniards: Amongst which number, there were many principal Gentlemen, and Captains of good account slain.  
By all which examples before rehearsed with many others, as all men that have read and observed many histories do well know, it is most apparent, that it is not the placing of the armour and weapons, here or there, or the disarming of the common people, as the peasants in France, and Hongarie, and the Moors in Spain were disarmed, that can prevent Rebellions that do happen and are begun upon divers occasions, 
justice duly & equally ministered doth take ●way all occasions and intentions of rebellion.  and chiefly for lack of justice duly and equally ministered: Howbeit justice duly & with great equality and order ministered throughout a whole Empire, kingdom, or common wealth, with great care had to protect, preserve, maintain, increase and continue the Common wealth of the subjects in all prosperity, and by advancing and favouring the good, and by reproaching and punishing the bad: the same I say, how well armed soever the subjects and people are, doth take away all occasions and intentions of rebellion, as it is most apparent by the notable City, and state of Venice, and their dominions in the continent and islands that do belong to that signory; 
The quiet and happy state of the Venetians these many hundred years, caused by justice.  which have been ever in many ages so well armed, as in Venice itself, the common multitude of the Citizens and people, who never bear any office in the common wealth, but certain base offices, do so well content themselves with the government, and great and equal justice of the Magistrates and their superiors; that although they have all sorts of armours, and weapons of war for footmen in all their houses; yet it is not to be found in any Chronicles or histories of Venice, that ever they did take arms or revolt against their Duke, Senate, nor Nobility: And that in like sort, all the dominions that do belong unto Venice, that are in the continent of Italy and elsewhere, although all the common people of those dominions, be armed and weaponed; yet through the great care had by the state of Venice of their prosperity, with equal & great justice ministered even to the very lest of them; they find themselves so well contented to live under the quiet and happy government of the Venetians, that they have not in many and many years, once offered any kind of revolt against them; but have rather at such times as some parts of those dominions have been by force won and possessed, sometimes by the Imperial, and sometimes by the French and other Princes, at one time or other revolted from the government of such strangers, and returned again to the obedience of the Venetians.  
Besides which, it is to be noted, that the Cantonnes and confederate people of Suitzerland, 
The force of justice duly & equally ministered amongst the Suissers and divers other principalities of Germanic.  since they through the great extortions and injustices of the Dukes of Austridge and their officers and substitutes, did take arms, and by battle and victory (with the death of the Duke Lupold, and slaughter of a great part of his Nobility) redeem and reduce themselves into a civil and popular State, have never revolted; nor that the people of certain principalities of Germany through the great justice by their princes and Magistrates equally ministered, and the well ordering & using of the people, have at any time rebelled: I mean the Suissers against their Magistrates, nor those Almains against their princes. By which examples with many others, which for brevities sake I omit; this old proverb is verified, 
Princes that do duly & equally minister justice need not to doubt any rebellion.  Opus justitiae pax; which may be interpreted, that the effect of justice is peace.  
From all which I come to conclude, that no Emperor, King, nor Common wealth that do govern their Subjects with great and equal justice, and therewithal do effectually show to have great care of their increase, prosperity and happiness, need any ways to doubt any revolt or Rebellion against them, 
A thing most requisite for all Emperor's kings and common wealths to well arm, weapon and exercise their subjects.  by their subjects and people, although they have all sorts of armours and weapons of war in their houses; but that it is rather very requisite & needful for all great Princes and Common Wealths, that will maintain and defend themselves and their dominions against foreign Nations, to well arm, weapon, and exercise their people in matters military; and that they do establish good Laws for the good and orderly performance of the same. 
Where all the armours and weapons of all shires should be kept.  All which before considered, mine opinion clearly is, that of all other places it is most convenient, that the armours and Weapons of all Shires should be kept by such rich men as do find those armours and weapons, in their own houses; and such as are found by the common purse of parishes, that they should be kept in the chief men's houses of those parishes where the soldiers dwell; that upon occasion of those services should wear and use them, aswell in respect that all men by all reason will be more careful to keep and maintain in good order such apparel, armour and weapons as were bought at their own charges, then great Towns, or Gentlemen, or corporals, that never bought the same: Besides that upon any sudden alarm, or giving of fire to the beacons upon the enemies coming to invade, or other occasion of service, when the soldiers of the whole shire, should with all celerity arm themselves & march to the place of assembly general, there to reduce themselves under their Ensigns and Captains, and under their higher and lower officers; I say that all sorts of soldiers may presently, and with a great deal more celerity, apparel, arm and weapon themselves in warlike manner, the same being in their own houses, if they be owners of the same, or otherwise presently to apparel arm and weapon themselves in such houses of the same Town whereas the furniture is kept, and themselves do dwell, then to run to gentlemen's or corporals houses, or to great towns 3. or 4. miles off; where their armours & furniture are kept, & there in hubbledeshuffe disorderly to arm themselves; whereof, beside divers other disorders that do ensue often times upon such sudden Alarms, and armings, little men do put on great or tall men's armours, and leave little armours unfit for great men to put on; according to the old saying, first come first served; And so likewise they do mistake the right choosing of their apparel and Weapons; whereof ensueth great disorder and confusion. And these sudden disorders with others that I omit, cannot upon such sudden alarms be possibly prevented, the armours & weapon's being so placed, although all the particular names of the soldiers, were written upon the apparel, armour & weapons. And now as I have set down mine opinion concerning the election and enrolling aswell of divers sorts of horsemen as of footmen, to divers different sorts of armours and weapons with many other particularities: So would I now wish (all matters military being brought into the perfection aforesaid) that all the soldiers aswell horsemen as footmen, should in some convenient place appointed for the purpose, 
When and ho● soldiers that are enroled to any kind of weapon ought to exercise themselves.  upon the holidays, during certain months in the summer, in the afternoon after they come from church, exercise themselves with such weapons as they are enrolled unto, as archers to shooting game at Rovers, & long butts, with their long bows, according to the ancient use of England, and that the harquebuziers in the presence of the chief men or officers of the parish in travessing their grounds as if they were in skirmish, should with their pieces well, and orderly charged (as I have in my instructions and discourses before particularly declared) at a great But discharge 4. shot; and so likewise that the mosquetiers should with their mosquets well charged with full bullets from their rests, discharge 3. or 4. other shot: And this at the charge either of the parishes, or of such rich men as do find such soldiers, or otherwise as it may be better considered of, and devised. Also I would that such soldiers as are piquers being disarmed should with blunt pikes, learn to march soldiorly, as also with dexeritie to handle and manage them, thereby the better to know how in service to handle their sharp pikes; as also the halbarders with blunt halberds made for the purpose, should learn to give both blow and thrusts at their enemies with their greatest advantage: Howbeit as for halbarders and piquers there is no need that they should be so often exercised to the use of their weapons as the soldiers with weapons of volee; because that soldiers with weapons of volee, be they horsemen or footmen shall never be able effectually to perform the use and effects of their weapons in services of the field in earnest, if they be not often and long before exercised in sport with dexterity to manage and use those weapons. And so likewise upon such aforesaid holidays, I would wish that all sorts of horsemen of what weapon soever, should either before their masters or some other principal men where they dwell, appointed for that purpose, ride their horses, and exercise themselves on horbacke, with such weapons as they are enrolled unto. And all these aforesaid private exercises upon holidays I would wish to be performed to the intent to make all the soldiers of all sorts of armours and weapons as well on horseback as on foot to be the more apt, & ready to perform the effects of soldiers upon all important employments and services Military, as also at such general musters, and trainings as should be appointed, & thought requisite upon some two special times in the summer, when the people might have best leisure to be absent from their mo● needful and necessary Country affairs.  
Also I would that no horsemen, 
No foot alter their 〈◊〉 upon 〈…〉.  nor footmen to what armour and weapon soever they be enrolled, should alter or change themselves from the same kind of armours and weapons that he or they are enrolled unto upon very severe punishment, without the special appointment of their Captain, or Captains; and therefore it is very convenient that all Captains aswell of horsemen as footmen should ever have all their officers of their bands always ready & well known to their whole bands, 
The office all bands 〈◊〉 to be well known to soldiers of 〈◊〉 bands & the● bands to the  as also the whole bands unto them: as their Lieutenants, their Ensignebearers, their Sergeants: And that all those officers should be men of credit and account, and inhabiters in the same shires, and that all those officers should have the muster Rolls of the names of all the soldiers with their different weapons that they are enrolled unto, in as great perfections as the Captains: that thereby, as also for divers other causes they should have a continual eye that the soldiers of their bands should not through any kind of negligence grow into any imperfections, or disorders; And therewithal that the Corporals of the footmen, who should have 50. soldiers under their several charges, (their own persons in that number contained) should never be without a perfect Roll of the particular names of the soldiers of their Corporalates, and to what armour and weapons every soldior is enrolled, and where they dwell: And therewithal that they should have special care, to see and diligently to inquire, whether the soldiers of their charge and Corporalates do upon such holidays as aforesaid, exercise themselves with their weapons, in the Towns, parishes, hamlets, or places where they are ordinarily resident as also that at convenient times they should see whether their arming apparel, armours and weapons be well and orderly kept without any thing lacking: And for the orderly observation and performance of all the most requisite matters by me before set down, as also others that have no● 〈◊〉 present fallen into my remembrance, or that may 〈◊〉 better considered of and devised by others of greater memory and consideration than I am of, I would wish they should be with great consideration & advise of counsel propounded, 
〈…〉  considered of, and established by Act of Parliament with certain different penalties for the reforming of the neglecters of such requisite matters military, as also certain privileges, pre-eminences, or other advancements, a● rewards for virtue, to be bestowed upon such as do best or very well behave themselves in their vocations, and degrees military.  
And thus having for the great love that I bear to the continual safety and prosperity of the Crown & Realm of England, 
〈…〉  a●d English Nation, performed and finished my intended propositions and projects military, I cease, 
〈…〉  attributing all such matters as I have rightly fallen into the reckoning of, to the most high praise, honour and glory, of Almighty God, (as the only giver of all right understanding, wisdom and science) and all my failinges and errors unto mine own great lack and fault, in that I have not given and yeelde● myself as I ought to have done, to his divine grace, and direction; thereby to have considered, learned, and observed more of the Art, and science Military, and of all other good things; then my simple capacity and power, by seeing, reading, and hearing hath been any ways able to attain unto.  
Honour et gloria in excelsis Deo omnipotenti, sempiterno, et incomprehensibili Amen.