Reflections on the Art of War. By Brigadier-General Reginald Clare
Hirt, V.C. (W. Clowes and Son. 7s. 6d.)—Brigadier- General Hart's book was received with a well-deserved welcome when it first appeared. He has now considerably enlarged it, and, doubtless, increased both its interest and its value. The first chapter deals with the "High Qualifications of Great Generals." "Why," he asks, "have there been so few really great Generals in the history of war ? " The answer is to be found in an analysis of the qualities which have made them great, and in a comparison of them with others who, with some commanding qualities, yet fall short of real eminence. Some men can plan in the study, but cannot carry out in the field. They want personal intrepidity, which is probably rarer than is commonly supposed. It does not follow thtt.t because a man dose not actually run away he keeps the necessary presence of mind. This chapter, which is of consider- able length, is followed by one on "The Theory and Practice of War," and this, again, by one on "The Fortune of War." This is particularly interesting. We may say generally that the good fortune which distinguishes some commanders is a combination of causes which we cannot discern. Still, there is a residuum of incidents which cannot be called anything but chances. A. despatch, for instance, happens to be intercepted, and saves one General from defeat and robs another of a well-planned victory. All the 'discussions are illustrated with appropriate examples. It is a maxim among card-players that the "cards never forgive." If you miss your chance of winning a rubber, it does not return. So it is in war. At Busaco, Ney had an opportunity of attacking Wellington before his army was in formation. He waited for Mass6na's permission, Mass4na wasted time. The opportunity was lost, and a defeat, which would probably have led to the evacuation of the Peninsula, was not inflicted.
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