52 
MINUTES OE PEOCEEDINGS OP 
If an absolute or definite value referred to some common standard, could 
be attached to each of the several qualities which enter as elements into the 
investigation, the subject would be capable of exact demonstration; but as 
this cannot be done, differences of opinion will exist until the problem is 
practically solved by the experience only to be derived from actual warfare, 
under all the varied circumstances attending it. Still there are points which 
do not reasonably admit of any differences of opinion, for they are based on 
fundamental laws, the truth of which cannot be questioned,—and it has been 
my sole endeavour, in writing these few remarks, to explain in a familiar 
manner, how the subject under discussion, is affected by these principles. 
