Note 37 — CHAP. XXVI. A NAVAL STUDY—(continued).

This was said with the full knowledge that when “our own” were reluctantly sent in, no damage was sustained. To use Lord Gambier’s own words in making his defence, “Not one, even of the smallest of our vessels employed, has been disabled from proceeding on any service that might have become necessary.” (Minutes, p. 138.)—A circumstance not at all expected by the country when the destruction of the enemy’s fleet was required.