We must rather try to nullify the numerical superiority of the enemy by the increased tactical value of the troops, by intelligent generalship, and a prompt use of opportunity and locality.

Even the addition of the Italian army to the forces of Germany and Austria would not, so far as I know, restore numerical equality in the field.
In France it has been thought hitherto that two or three army corps must be left on the Italian frontier.

Modern French writers [A] are already reckoning so confidently on the withdrawal of Italy from the Triple Alliance that they no longer think it necessary to put an army in the field against Italy, but consider that the entire forces of France are available against Germany.
[Footnote A: Colonel Boucher, "L'offensive contre l'Allemagne."] The peace establishment of the Italian army amounts, in fact, to 250,000 men, and is divided into 12 army corps and 25 divisions.

The infantry, in 96 regiments, numbers 140,000; there are besides 12 regiments of Bersaglieri, with which are 12 cyclist battalions and 8 Alpine regiments in 78 companies.

The cavalry consists of 29 regiments, 12 of which are united in 3 cavalry divisions.