No matter how extensive or important the temporary means that may be developed as necessity requires, there must be some force kept in a constant state of efficiency, in order to impart life and stability to the system.

The one can never properly replace the other; for while the former constitutes the basis, the latter must form the main body of the military edifice, which, by its strength and durability, will offer shelter and protection to the nation; or, if the architecture and materials be defective, crush and destroy it in its fall.
The permanent means of military defence employed by modern nations, are-- 1st.

An army; 2d.

A navy; 3d.

Fortifications.
The first two of these could hardly be called permanent, if we were, to regard their _personnel_; but looking upon them as institutions or organizations, they present all the characteristics of durability.