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The Art of War is “the greatest amount of common sense used in the shortest possible time.”

J.S.S.

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Mr. J. S. Smith, the author of this book, is an American, born in Philadelphia, who enlisted in the 29th Vancouver Battalion in the fall of 1914. He saw service along the Belgian front, and in August 1916 was given a commission in the British Army. He is now (June, 1917) serving with the British Expeditionary Force on the French front.

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In locating the site for a defensive firing line, it must be divided into three sections:—firing line, immediate support and reserves. In doing this several opposing factors should be taken into consideration and their relative importance judged according to the special circumstances and objects in view, keeping in mind the probable lines and manner of defense of the enemy, and whether the trenches are for permanent or for temporary use.

This may be summarized under two heads: first, with the object of attaining the greatest field that can be covered by defensive fire; and, second, the greatest security from offensive fire.