THE KING.
Reading edition
SIRE,
From Your Majesty's exalted station as Sovereign of the greatest maritime power on earth, and from the ardent zeal with which You have graciously extended Your Royal patronage to every measure which could promote the welfare and the glory of the British Navy, I have presumed, with the utmost deference, to dedicate the following pages to Your Majesty.
With the most dutiful respect, I have the honour to subscribe myself,
Sire, Your Majesty's Most devoted subject and servant,
WILLIAM HILLARY.