VI 
DEDICATION. 
not the character of the Navy been habitually maintained at, perhaps, 
the highest level which human exertion is capable of reaching. 
To produce this generous spirit, however, and to preserve it entire 
when once created, there was required, on the part of the Hoyal T amily, 
some signal example of personal sacrifice to the popular service of the 
country. And although it would be very presumptuous in any one to 
pretend to estimate the advantages which the profession has derived, 
in our own days, from Your Majesty having condescended to become 
one of its working members, there can be no doubt, that in all future 
times, the British Navy will retain the salutary impression, and cherish 
the remembrance of this high honour. 
May it please Your Majesty, 
Your Majesty's 
most dutiful servant, 
most grateful 
and most faithful subject. 
FKEDEKICK WILLIAM BEECHEY. 
