THE NAVY,

The Bulwark of their Country,

AND

WHOSE TRIUMPHS ARE THE PRIDE OF HER HISTORY,

THIS WORK

IS MOST RESPECTFULLY INSCRIBED.




PREFACE.


At the commencement of hostilities, whose extent and duration none can
foresee, it is the wisdom of those to whom England will hereafter commit
the honour of her Flag to study well the example of the great
sea-officers whose services illustrate the annals of their country.

Among these bright examples, none is more worthy of careful study than
Admiral Lord Exmouth. Entering the service a friendless orphan, the
success which he achieved by merit alone is most encouraging to all who
must rise by their own deserts. In his perfect seamanship, his mastery
of all that relates to his profession, his zeal and energy, his
considerate forethought, his care to make his crews thorough seamen, and
the example by which he spurred and encouraged them, the secret may be