NORTH SEA MEN AND THE NAVY 351 



whatsoever to a front place amongst the world's great 

 sea-powers. 



One of the most significant movements in connection 

 with the British Navy of to-day has been the complete 

 change of opinion with regard to the probable area of 

 future contests for sea supremacy. Until lately it was 

 generally believed that the struggle would be decided in 

 the Mediterranean, and the British Fleet was distributed 

 on that basis, the most powerful ships being allocated to 

 the Mediterranean. Now, however, in view of the 

 amazing and sinister growth of the naval power of 

 Germany, our strongest units are concentrated for North 

 Sea work. 



Germany, with a foresight and sagacity that compel 

 admiration, has been quick to realise the strategical 

 possibilities of the North Sea. One of her great objects 

 is to give, in time of peace, a thorough training to her 

 naval forces on the stormy waters which they know so 

 well. Until recently it was possible to say of most 

 foreign navies that their training was carried out in the 

 security of harbours or sheltered waters. Manoeuvring 

 in winter or on seas notoriously troubled was carefully 

 avoided, and there was not anything to approach, 

 certainly nothing to excel, the splendid work throughout 

 the year which has made the British Navy the admira- 

 tion, envy, and example of the world. 



Germany is not renowned for originating changes ; 

 but she is swift to follow a lead, and never hesitates to 

 try and improve on Great Britain's naval and maritime 

 achievements. On rare occasions, indeed, Germany sets 

 an example. She did so lately in connection with North 

 Sea trawlers, for wireless telegraphy was installed in 



