How far have we accomplished this object, and what will be the probable operations in case of another contest with a European power?
New and inexperienced troops will be called into the field to oppose a veteran and disciplined army.

From these troops we shall expect all the bravery and energy resulting from ardent patriotism and an enthusiastic love of liberty.

But we cannot here expect much discipline, military skill, or knowledge of the several branches of the military art.

The peaceful habits of our citizens tend but little to the cultivation of the military character.

How, then, are we to oppose the hostile force?
Must human blood be substituted for skill and preparation, and dead bodies of our citizens serve as epaulements against the inroads of the enemy?
To some extent, we fear it must be the case; but not entirely so, for government has not altogether neglected to make preparation for such an event.