To such an extent was this carried, that for fifty years afterwards no military officer was allowed to give out the parole and countersign.[8] Their only duties were to command the men when under arms.

Commissions were granted and taken away by the Council without reference to the Directors.
Under such treatment there could be neither self-respect nor pride in their profession.

Of their general behaviour, we may gather some idea from an entry concerning Lieutenant Parker at this time.

He was arraigned before the Council for drinking, brawling with his men, and frequenting base houses, for which the Council deprived him of his commission; but as he was 'an extraordinary person in disciplining (drilling) soldiers,' he was appointed adjutant of the regiment till he should give a specimen of improved behaviour.

When there was fighting to be done, the command was taken by factors and writers, who were given temporary commissions as captains, colonels, etc.