This was before the days of the unrestricted submarine campaign, and although ships were frequently torpedoed, very large numbers were still being sunk by gun-fire.

The torpedo did not come into general use until March, 1917.
One of the most pressing needs of this period of attack by gun-fire was consequently a great increase in the number of guns for use in defensively armed merchant vessels, and here Sir Edward Carson's assistance was of great value.

He fully realized the urgent necessities of the case, and was constant in his efforts to procure the necessary guns.

The work carried out in this connection is given in detail in Chapter III (p.

68).
During Sir Edward's tenure of office the reorganization of the Naval Staff was taken in hand.