109

106

(Cavalry is good at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of an action. JOMINI.)

Although a repetition, I will say here again that such a type of ship, of about 4500 tons, will be better fitted for this service than the ships of the line; because faster, less tied down to order and less loss to the fleet, and in money, if cut off or crippled.

As to their position these ships must not, like the reserve, be kept to the rear. On the contrary they must be as near as possible to the enemy so that if needed, they may reach him as rapdily as may be; on the other hand they must not be in the way of the ships of the line; must not hamper them either in their fire, their manoeuvres or their attack, and must as far as possible support any weak point of the line, must be close to the line, yet not in the way..

Being subsidiary, they cannot be allowed to determine the main features of any order adopted, though they may possibly induce modifications in it. Therefore having decided that the line abreast is best for ships of the line, for the first advance and while confined to the gun, we will not change it to suit the Rams; but will simply examine what is the best place for them in connection with it.

For the development of their offensive power individually it is essential that they should have free access to the enemy's order in all its parts, while for the exertion of their united powers they should be together.