Slitherine

I have been under the impression that all ranks must attempt to be equal but then someone pointed out the diagram in the rules [ page 23 ] with a front 4 back 2 being legit. It's not clearly spelt out on that page to my knowledge although I have a vague memory of the an early draft being more exact. I know there are the flank fighting /column exceptions etc.
Does that mean a 5 /1 is legit? i.e. it is rectangular with more bases in the front.

Ok, I have just read the other thread which largely clears this up. BUT if you have a 3/2/1 formation you are rectangular, have fewer bases in the rear rank and would appear to be legal.

No it isn't - only the rear rank can have fewer bases than the front rank.

Ranks must be of equal number of bases, except the final one which may have less.