In order, however, that the navy may always assume and maintain that active and energetic deportment, in offensive operations, which is at the same time so consistent with its functions, and so consonant with its spirit, we have shown that it must not be occupied with mere coast defence." A few remarks on the relative cost of ships and forts, and the economy of their support, and we will close this discussion.

We do not regard this question, however, as a matter of any great importance, for it can seldom be decisive in the choice of these two means of defence.

No matter what their relative cost may be, the one cannot often be substituted for the other.

There are some few cases, however, where this might be taken into consideration, and would be decisive.

Let us endeavor to illustrate our meaning.