Subsistence

( Subsist ance, Fr. ) in a military sense of the word may be divided into two sorts, viz. That species of subsistence which is found in the adjacent country: such as forage, and frequently corn that is distributed in parcels; and that which is provided at a distance, and regularly supplied by means of a well-conducted commi ariat. The latter consists chiefly of meat, bread, beer, . To these may be added wood or coals, and straw, which are always wanted in an army. Every general will take proper precautions to have his men well supplied with these first nece aries in life. Baron d’Espagnac has written at large upon this important subject. See Elemens Mil it a ires, tom. i. page 162; and that writer’s Suite de l’e ai sur la science de la Guerre, tom. i. page 246. Subsistence likewise means pay or allowance.