Page:The organisation of the Royal Naval Artillery Volunteers explained.djvu/13

Rh No positive promise, however, can be given that the 'Rainbow' shall be moved. There are many points to consider, such as draft of water, height and width of arches, and obstruction of the navigation of the river.

For those clubs which are established still higher up the river, where there is not sufficient water to float the 'Rainbow,' facilities for instruction may be provided by mounting a 64-pounder gun on a raft, which could be towed from place to place, and moored to the bank of the river adjacent to the boat-houses belonging to the clubs. An instructor would accompany the raft; and, during the winter months, arrangements might be made for giving to volunteers an opportunity of going through their small-arm drills in a drill-shed, or other convenient place, available for the purpose. Thus it may be found possible to extend the system of instruction, by effectual, yet inexpensive, means, far up the Thames, and so to embrace towns such as Reading, Maidenhead, Henley, Windsor, and even the headquarters of rowing, the University of Oxford.

Inquiry having been made as to whether members will be expected to appear in uniform, whenever they attend drill, it may not be superfluous to mention that the regulations are silent on this point. Members will only be required to wear uniform on special occasions, of which due notice will be given.

Members of the Royal Naval Artillery Volunteer corps may therefore rest assured that they will have the opportunity of being thoroughly instructed in the