Benningsen's attack on Murat at Zarantin in 1812 was a true surprise, resulting from the gross negligence and carelessness of the king of Naples.
An _order of battle_ is the particular disposition given to the troops for a determined manoeuvre on the field of battle.

A _line of battle_ is the general name applied to troops drawn up in their usual order of exercise, without any determined manoeuvre; it may apply to defensive positions, or to offensive operations, where no definitive object has been decided on.

Military writers lay down twelve orders of battle, viz.: 1st.

The simple parallel order; 2d.

The parallel order with a crotchet; 3d.