The concealment of cavalry, however, is somewhat difficult. An
animal, especially if he be unaccustomed to the noise of the
aeroplane, is likely to become startled, and to give vent to a
frightened and vociferous neighing which invariably provokes a
hearty response from his equine comrades. The sharp ear of the
airman does not fail to distinguish this sound above the music of
his motor. Again, he has come to regard all copses and stretches
of undergrowth with suspicion. Such may or may not harbour the
enemy, but there is no risk in making an investigation. He
swoops down, and when a short distance above the apparently
innocent copse, circles round it two or three times. Still
undecided, he finally hurls a bomb. Its detonation invariably
proves effective. The horses stampede and the secret is out.
Even foot soldiers must be severely trained and experienced to
resist the natural inclination to break cover when such a missile
is hurled into their midst.
Frequently a force, which has laboured under the impression that
it is safe from detection, has revealed its presence unwittingly
and upon the spur of the moment.
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