1. Its actually a one to five ratio

2. This is historically accurate for a regiment of dragoons, which are cavalry- the ratio is much higher in the infantry for example.

3. A five to one subordinate is plenty efficient, especially since each cornet has a subordinate NCO to help them and the lieutenant does as well.

4. Its also administratively useful- guiding and being responsible for individual soldiers makes a platoon leaders job untenable.

5. As an aside, breaking down a cavalry platoon that much allows it to scout and maneouver effectively at speed- since, yknow, horseback.

Source: am a sgt in the US military and also a history nut