All these are strategic questions, and upon all these history has a great deal to say.

There has been of late a valuable discussion in English naval circles as to the comparative merits of the policies of two great English admirals, Lord Howe and Lord St.
Vincent, in the disposition of the English navy when at war with France.

The question is purely strategic, and is not of mere historical interest; it is of vital importance now, and the principles upon which its decision rests are the same now as then.

St.Vincent's policy saved England from invasion, and in the hands of Nelson and his brother admirals led straight up to Trafalgar.
It is then particularly in the field of naval strategy that the teachings of the past have a value which is in no degree lessened.
They are there useful not only as illustrative of principles, but also as precedents, owing to the comparative permanence of the conditions.
This is less obviously true as to tactics, when the fleets come into collision at the point to which strategic considerations have brought them.

The unresting progress of mankind causes continual change in the weapons; and with that must come a continual change in the manner of fighting,--in the handling and disposition of troops or ships on the battlefield.