Transformation of equations with retarded argument to equations with the best argument

The problem of choosing the best argument in the Cauchy problem for a system of ordinary differential equations with retarded argument is studied from the viewpoint of the method of continuation of the solution with respect to a parameter. It is proved that the arc length counted along the integral curve of the problem is the best argument for the system of continuation equations to be well-posed in the best possible way. A transformation of the Cauchy problem to the best argument is obtained.