Piquet GUARD, a good number of horse and foot, always in readiness in case of an alarm: the horses are generally saddled all the time, and the riders booted.
The foot draw up at the head of the battalion, frequently at the beating of the tat-too; but afterwards return to their tents, where they hold themselves in readiness to march upon any sudden alarm. This guard is to make resistance in case of an attack, until the army can get ready.