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( 17 ) arrangement, before their greatest achievements had conferred lustre on the country; amongst others I may name Lord Rodney, Lord Duncan, Sir Pulteney Malcolm, Sir Thomas Cochrane, the late Sir George Seymour, Sir William Martin, Sir Alexander Milne, and Lord Clarence Paget.

12. I may remind you also that my sea-service up to promotion to flag rank is about the same as that of Sir Edmund Lyons on his appointment to the Black Sea Fleet, after nearly twenty years occupied in the diplomatic service.

13. I cannot think that a good rule which would have deprived the country of the services of these men.

14. I, of course, can only respectfully bow to the decision of this Board, who are the responsible judges of the character and qualifications of an officer; but I must on public grounds record my protest against this decision, not only as in itself a breach of faith, but because of the serious inconvenience to the public service which must result from a rule which changes services at the Admiralty, hitherto considered an honourable distinction, into penal servitude.

15. I trust that the determination to dismiss me from active service may result in obtaining younger Admirals than I am, for whatever may be the opinion of my professional knowledge, I venture to say that none of those who may replace me will be possessed with greater loyalty to the Throne or a more patriotic desire in war to serve the country.

I am, Sir,

Your obedient servant,

(Signed)