In the one there is a strict analogy to a war of posts; while in the other the objective is that force whose destruction leaves the posts unsupported and therefore sure to fall in due time.

These opposing policies being recognized, consideration should also be had of the results of the two as exemplified in the history of England and France.
It was not, however, with such cautious views that the new king at first sought to impress his admirals.

In the instructions addressed to the Count d'Orvilliers, commanding the first fleet sent out from Brest, the minister, speaking in the name of the king, says:-- "Your duty now is to restore to the French flag the lustre with which it once shone; past misfortunes and faults must be buried out of sight; only by the most illustrious actions can the navy hope to succeed in doing this.

His Majesty has the right to expect the greatest efforts from his officers....

Under whatever circumstances the king's fleet may be placed, his Majesty's orders, which he expressly charges me to impress upon you, as well as upon all officers in command, are that his ships attack with the greatest vigor, and defend themselves, on all occasions, to the last extremity." More follows to the same effect; upon which a French officer, who has not before been quoted in connection with this phase of French naval policy, says:-- "How different this language from that held to our admirals during the last war; for it would be an error to believe that they followed by choice and temper the timid and defensive system which predominated in the tactics of the navy.