definite views; and they are not always views which the Government of
our own country would be prepared to endorse. For some remarks upon
these questions in detail, and upon the code generally, I must refer to
my former letter, but may perhaps be allowed to quote its concluding
words, which were to the following effect:--

"Our code might be better arranged than its predecessor, and
would differ from it on certain questions, but should
resemble it in clearness of expression, in brevity, and,
above all things, in frank acceptance of responsibility. What
naval men most want is definite guidance, in categorical
language, upon those points of maritime international law
upon which our Government has made up its own mind."

Before issuing such a code our authorities would have to decide--first,
what are the classes of topics as to which it is desirable to give
definite instructions to naval officers; and, secondly, with reference
to topics, to be included in the instructions, as to which there exist
international differences of view, what is, in each case, the view by
which the British Government is prepared to stand.

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
T. E. HOLLAND.
Oxford, March 12 (1902).




CHAPTER III