The marching battalions, it is true, have been formed, but they have not yet been engaged with the enemy; and it certainly is the opinion of military men that it will be advisable, for the credit of French arms, to "keep them in reserve" during any future engagement which may take place.

General Clement Thomas has issued a series of general orders, from the tenor of which it would appear that the system of substitutes has been largely practised in these battalions.

I have myself no doubt of the fact.

The fault, however, lies with the Government.

When these battalions were formed, the respective categories of unmarried and married men between 25 and 35, and between 35 and 45, were only to be drawn upon in case a sufficient number of volunteers were not forthcoming.