Here we have a patrol of light cavalry, in the presence of a similar and somewhat stronger body of the enemy, exchanging shots while acting on the defensive.
In the British cavalry the Hussar regiments, more particularly, are considered as “light” cavalry.
It is a party of the 4th (Queen’s Own) Hussars that we see engaged.
The drill in question is of Cossack origin, and though very effective as a spectacle and often used for purposes of display, is by the majority of cavalry officers considered as likely to be of doubtful utility before an enemy under conditions of real war.
The patrol in question would be one of those employed on outpost duty and sent forward from a picket to reconnoitre some little distance from the front of the line of vedettes or stationary mounted sentries in order to “feel” for an enemy and “get touch” with him.
These fellows are now “in touch” and the enemy has “felt them.
The Navy and Army Illustrated, July 10th, 1896.
