CHAPTER XI.
JOHNNY CANUCK AFLOAT--SPLENDID SERVICE ON BOARD THE GUNBOATS--THE BEGINNING OF THE CANADIAN NAVY--ARRIVAL OF BRITISH TARS.
Concurrent with the mustering of troops to act on land, the need of naval forces to patrol our lakes and rivers was fully realized, so preparations were quickly made in that direction.

The Toronto Naval Brigade, commanded by Capt.

W.P.McMaster, was a very efficient and well-disciplined corps of brave and hardy men, who were among the first to respond to the call of duty.

The Government chartered the powerful steam tug "Rescue," which being properly armed, was placed in commission as the first boat in the Canadian Navy.

She was manned by the Toronto Naval Brigade, and sailed out of Toronto Harbor on June 4th under sealed orders.